Soba Workshop in Yamagata City
Located conveniently in the heart of Yamagata City, create your own Japanese soba from scratch with the guidance of veteran soba masters.
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 this Season
With the peak of the summer heat upon us, we recommend indoor or early morning culinary experiences to stay cool.
Private Shiogama Tuna Auction and Fishmarket Tour
See the tuna auction and morning market of Shiogama through this locally guided day trip from Sendai. This tour incudes lunch.
Farmer Homestay Programs in Yamagata Prefecture
Experience life in rural Japan with an overnight farmstay experience in Yamagata.
Featured Tour Packages
Private 3-Day 2-Night Tour in Niigata
Experience the splendor of Niigata Prefecture in this 3-day, 2-night private tour. Tour the factories of Tsubame Sanjo, see the majestic koi of Nagaoka, and delight in the local fermented food culture.
Spiritual 3-day Private Tour in Shonai, Yamagata
Immerse yourself in the spirituality of the Dewa Sanzan Mountains in this active 3-day and 2-night experience.
Two Day Cuisine and Culture in Kaminoyama and Yamagata Private Tour
On this 2-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.
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.
