Biography

Michael Gakuran is a visionary adventurer, storyteller and entrepreneur, with a profound passion for pursuing the unseen and unknown corners of the world.

Known for his unique ability to unveil the hidden narratives of the world's forgotten landscapes and his expertise in the Japanese language and culture, Michael has made significant contributions to various international television and video projects, notably the Discovery Channel's 'Forgotten Planet' series and Netflix's 'Dark Tourist'. Michael facilitated filming and production as a local guide, translator and fixer, and also shared his deep-rooted knowledge as an urban explorer, appearing in the final productions with his captivating photography and insights.

In his role as a fixer, Michael has been instrumental in guiding international media teams through Japan, offering unparalleled access to restricted sites and coordinating with local authorities to ensure seamless production workflows. His linguistic fluency and cultural acumen have made him an indispensable resource, enabling storytellers to authentically capture and share Japan's diverse stories with the world.

Beyond the lens, Michael's prowess extends to the written word, with multiple articles published in the Japan Times and Gaijinpot. His writings delve into the intricacies of the Japanese language, cultural nuances, and his personal expeditions exploring the ruins (haikyo) of the world. His academic prowess in Japanese, crowned by achieving the highest level of language proficiency and winning the UK Japanese Speech Contest for University Students, underscores his dedication to and love for Japanese culture.

Michael's commitment to exploration and storytelling has also led him into the heart of Japan's disaster-stricken areas, particularly the site of the 3.11 Great East Japan Earthquake and Fukushima nuclear accident, where he has led research scientists, non-profit organizations, and documentary crews to investigate the aftermath of the disaster. His insightful tours have contributed to scientific research and earned glowing reviews, cementing his reputation as a knowledgeable and trusted guide.

Michael Gakuran's journey into the hidden and forgotten corners of the globe is a testament to his unyielding passion for adventure, culture, and storytelling. With a rich portfolio that spans across groundbreaking television projects, insightful writings, and meaningful explorations, he invites those eager to uncover the depths of Japanese culture and its untold stories to reach out and contact him.

- IMDb mini biography by: Anonymous