Discover The Hidden Japan

Your Guide to Japan's Hidden Gems.

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. 

In the Spotlight

We are proud to present 3 new package tours created in collaboration with the featured cities and including locations and experiences that will appeal to fans of manga, anime, and video games. Please take a look at our tour packages for Sendai, Yamagata City, and Yonezawa and feel free to contact us for more information. 

Discovering Sendai: Anime Special Interest Tour

Boasting deep history and tradition and surrounded by nature, Sendai is a dynamic and fascinating city. On this tour, hit top sightseeing spots and sites of special interest to anime/manga fans. Try hands-on cultural and creative experiences, and enjoy the atmosphere of this vibrant northeastern city.

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Featured Tour Packages

Discovering Yamagata: Package Tour

Surrounded by the misty green mountains of northeastern Japan, hit the sightseeing highlights of Yamagata City and nearby areas on this specially crafted tour. Includes hands-on cultural experiences, a visit to a mysterious mountain temple, and a stay in a hot springs village near Mt. Zao.

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Yonezawa Anime Special Interest Tour

Specially designed for fans of anime, this 3-day 2-night tour covers points of interest in northeastern city Yonezawa, hands-on experiences with traditional crafts and arts, and a pilgrimage to locations featured in the 2024 anime film My Oni Girl, created by highly-acclaimed Studio Colorido.

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Highlights of Sendai Tour Package

Sendai is a dynamic and historically significant city bursting with culture, history, nature, and tradition. On this tour, hit Sendai’s top sightseeing destinations, experience hands-on cultural, culinary and crafting experiences, and get to know the tradition and culture of this fascinating city.

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What The Hidden Japan offers

Custom Tour Crafting

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.

Tour Packages and Experiences

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.

Self-Guided Planning Info

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.

Adventure Tourism

Browse our collection of outdoor adventure and active tourism content in the Japanese contryside.

Leisure and Indoors

Gorgeous and easy to access cultural sightseeing locations

Nature and Outdoors

Discover pristine natural beauty and adventure​

Festivals and Events

Experience the culture and passion of Japan in full display