About 

Amami Tours is a wholly independent tour guiding service owned and operated by long-time Japan resident John Cantu. Originally from Perth, Western Australia, John has built a rich and diverse connection with the country he has called home for over 23 years.

Before establishing Amami Tours, John spent 5 years working as an adventure guide in Australia and over a decade as a translator in Tokyo. Prior to all of this, he studied in Niigata and later at Tokyo's Komazawa University, where he majored in Japanese History.

John has also worked closely with the Ministry of Environment and Kagoshima Prefecture on projects focused on Amami’s nature and culture. Most recently, he served as translator for the 2025 publication of the "Amami Islands" guide issued by the prefectural government. He is also the author of Natural World Amami Vol. 1, a photographic collection documenting the island’s wildlife and landscapes.

​As the first and most experienced native English-speaking guide on Amami Oshima, John has been sharing the island's hidden beauty since first visiting the island in 2012. Every tour reflects his extensive local knowledge, years of experience, and commitment to showcasing the real Amami Oshima—something few visitors ever get to experience.