Naoto, known around Palos Verdes as “The Tamarin,” is a 21-year-old film student at El Camino College with a passion for nature and storytelling. Originally from Japan, he once explored his home country solo by bike at just 16 before the pandemic cut his journey short. Since moving to the U.S., he’s created two short films and appeared in the local hit Survival of the Remnant. Whether behind the camera or climbing trees, Naoto lives with curiosity and a deep connection to the natural world.
“Palos Verdes reminds me of my hometown in Nagano, Japan — surrounded by trees, and peaceful beauty. I grew up with nature, and climbing trees helps me reconnect with the Earth. Life gets busy, but Earth Day is a chance to slow down and feel that connection again.” – Naoto, ‘The Tamarin’
Click the link or see below to watch Naoto in action — climbing trees and embracing the wild beauty of the Peninsula in our special Earth Day segment: Beneath the Surface.
