From ancient temples to neon cityscapes, Japan is full of moments that stay with you long after the journey ends. Meet Luis, one of our incredible Adventure Leaders, who brings this vibrant country to life for students from around the world.
With a deep love for Japanese culture, Luis turns every trip into a meaningful exploration. He shares his love for Japan, what it’s like to watch students experience the country for the first time, and why leading adventures here never gets old.
How long have you been Adventure Leading with The Learning Adventure?
I have been adventure leading with The Learning Adventure for about a year and a half now. During that time, I’ve had the opportunity to lead a variety of educational tours, working with students from all over the world.
What ignited your passion for travel?
My passion for travel really started with planning trips with my friends. I was usually the one who took the lead, finding cool places to visit and making sure everyone had a good time. Over time, I realized that what I enjoyed most wasn’t just the travel itself, but creating meaningful experiences and bringing people together through those adventures.
What is your favourite thing about inspiring young people to travel?
One of my favourite things about inspiring young people to travel is getting to show them just how diverse and fascinating the world really is. I love introducing them to different cultures, perspectives, and ways of life – especially when they start to notice the differences and reflect on how those experiences can shape their own personal journey.
What is the most memorable experience you’ve had while guiding a tour?
One of the most memorable experiences I’ve had while guiding a tour was seeing how genuinely happy and amazed the students were by a simple but beautiful landscape. It wasn’t a major landmark or a famous tourist spot, just a quiet, scenic place that really connected with them. Watching the students’ reactions – how they paused, took it all in, and shared that moment of appreciation – was incredibly powerful. Being able to share those kinds of experiences with a group is what makes this job so special.
Can you share a story about a student who had a transformative experience during a trip?
A moment that has really stuck with me was helping a student who was considering coming to study in Japan the following year. I made it a point to show them what life in Japan is really like – not just the polished version you see on social media. I wanted them to experience the everyday culture, the small interactions, and the realities of living here – both the exciting parts and the challenges. It felt great to be able to give them a more grounded, authentic perspective and help them make a more informed decision about their future. Knowing I could play a small role in that journey was incredibly rewarding.
What is a skill or lesson you hope every student takes away from their Learning Adventure journey?
I hope every student takes away the value of respect and the importance of cleanliness – something that’s deeply rooted in Japanese culture. Whether it’s the way people respect each other’s space, how they interact politely, or how clean and orderly everything is, it really leaves an impression. I always hope students not only notice these things but start to reflect on how they can bring some of those values back home with them. It’s about becoming more mindful – not just of your surroundings, but of how your actions affect others. If they walk away with that awareness, I think it’s a big win.
What do you hope students remember most about their time traveling with you?
Well, hopefully me, of course! But in all seriousness, what I really hope students remember most about their time traveling with me is how genuinely kind and helpful the local people are. There’s something special about those small, everyday interactions – whether it’s someone giving directions with a smile, helping without being asked, or just showing a quiet kind of hospitality that sticks with you. I want students to leave with not just great memories, but a deeper appreciation for the warmth and generosity of the people they met along the way.
What’s the most rewarding part of seeing students connect with the destination during their trip?
The most rewarding part about seeing students connect with the destination is watching them really dive into the local experience – especially when they try the food and step out of their comfort zone. I love seeing their reactions when they try something totally new, like local street food or a traditional dish they’ve never even heard of. Those little moments of cultural exchange often become the memories they hold onto the most, and it’s incredibly rewarding to be part of creating that bridge between people.
What’s the best thing about a Learning Adventure tour?
For me, the best thing about a Learning Adventure tour is the connection that forms between the students and myself. It goes beyond just mutual respect – it often grows into a really natural, easy friendship. You’re not just guiding them from point A to B; you’re sharing laughs and stories, while also experiencing new things together. That bond creates a more relaxed and fun atmosphere where students feel comfortable to be themselves, ask questions, and really engage with the experience.
What is your favourite hidden gem that only locals know about?
One of my favorite hidden gems in Japan is a small, open-air museum that showcases a variety of traditional Japanese houses. It’s a place that many locals know about but isn’t on the usual tourist radar. The museum offers a unique opportunity to walk through different types of historical homes, each with its own story to tell. You get to see the various architectural styles from different regions of Japan all in one place, and it’s fascinating to see how design and structure have evolved over the years.
I recently visited another spot that might be even more hidden – Otsuka-Saikachido Archeological Park. It is a piece of land that’s about 3,000 years old, filled with ancient houses. It’s truly incredible to stand in such an old, untouched place and see structures that have stood the test of time. The area is peaceful and steeped in history, and it felt like stepping back in time. Both of these places offer a glimpse into Japan’s deep history, and I love how they provide a quieter, more intimate look at the country’s culture.
