We at The Hidden Japan are a team of Japanese and American travel agents based in Yamagata Prefecture with the goal of helping tourists get off the crowded tourism routes of Tokyo, Kyoto, and Osaka. With over 7 years of operation, we specialize in tours and experiences focused on linking travelers with locals and deep experiences.
We operate tours and experiences across Japan and are proud to be a member of the international tour community here with connections to other like-minded small travel agencies all over the country.
Our agency also creates customized tour packages planned by one our local experts. Each plan begins with a video call and are made specifically to your interests and needs.
Take a look at our latest tours and experiences!
This 2 night tour gives you the chance to not only watch, but take part in the Hanagsas festival, of the top three summer festivals in Tohoku. This trip includes two nights at a central Yamagata hotel, a dedicated interpreter, a private dance lesson with a local instructor, costume rental, kimono dressing, hair and make-up, tabi, and zori sandals for the event on the evening of the 5th. Applications close June 15, 2026.
This June 1st – July 15th program offers an opportunity to experience “Sho-Aizome,” one of Japan’s oldest indigo dyeing techniques, passed down in the Monji area of Kurikoma, Kurihara City. Applications are due three weeks before your desired date.
The Uesugi Festival commemorates the samurai clan who once ruled Yonezawa. The main event is a reenactment of the Battle of Kawanakajima. Join the fight as a member of the Takeda or Uesugi forces in a special one-day tour. Applications for this tour close April 15, 2026.
On this one night, two day tour, explore Yamagata’s traditional and modern food culture in Kaminoyama and Yamagata City. On day one, experience, interact, and deeply enjoy all facets of this region’s incredible cuisine. On day two, immerse yourself in traditional culture, from mountain temples to maiko performances.
Experience the splendor of Niigata Prefecture in this 3 day, 2 night tour plan. Make your own Japanese knife, onsen ryokan lodging, and more.
Explore Niigata, Fukushima, and Yamagata on this 4-day, 3-night private adventure tour. Explore Niigata city’s history and sake, hike through the stunning natural onsen landscapes of Fukushima, and embrace your inner samurai in Yamagata: this tour is for adventurous spirits looking for authentic experiences off the beaten path.
The Hidden Japan is a nationally licensed travel agency specializing in deep Japan experiences and custom tour crafting. Our goal is to help local communities across Japan to connect with travelers like yourself.
We offer a range of package tours and individual experiences with a carefully curated and constantly changing menu of offerings. Our programs put an emphasis on interaction with locals and deep Japan experiences.
We started as a travel blog introducing the splendor of the countryside regions of Japan. Explore our site for some of the many destinations and experiences available off the beaten path.
