Experience the wonders of the lush nature and rich, pristine culture of the Hidden Japan.
We are working with passionate local residents of Japan’s hidden gems to share the beauty and excitement of their Hidden Japan.
From the soothing onsen waters and picturesque castle of Kaminoyama to the city skyline of Yamagata, experience the best local cuisine and culture this area has to offer on this 5 day, 4 night private package tour.
Culinary Culture Tour of Kaminoyama and Yamagata Read More »
Although the floats can usually not be seen until the day of the festival, this year is different. From the end of the festival in July through the float dismantling in November, visitors can view the floats up close. This is a valuable cultural experience in which visitors can view the elaborate structure of the floats and brought to life through the passion of local residents, and hear directly from the local people themselves.
Kurikoma Festival Float Behind the Scenes Tour Read More »
This hands-on experience offers the rare opportunity to help construct the floats which are paraded up and down the streets during the summer Kurikoma Festival.
Kurikoma Festival Float Making Experience Read More »
Swordsmith Norizane Miyagi has been making swords for 45 years, continuing to refine his skills even to this day. At the workshop of Norizane Miyagi, receive a demonstration and explanation of the steps involved in sword making, try your hand at some smithing yourself, and view some genuine samurai swords in a private showing.
Crafting Katana: A Behind-the-scenes Forge Experience Read More »
Enjoy a private performance of the Yatsu Shika Odori deer dance, a folk performing art from the Kurihara Ichihasama area with a 400-year history, which has been registered as an Intangible Cultural Heritage of Miyagi Prefecture.
Private Performance: Hayakawa-ryu Suzunome Shishi Odori deer dance Read More »
A special ride on the retro Bonnet Bus to take in the peaceful landscape of the Kurihara countryside.
Bonnet Bus Ride in Kurihara’s Countryside Read More »
At old-fashioned sweets shop Kurikomaya in the Muikamachi neighborhood of Kurihara City, learn from the shop owner how to make taiyaki sweets, then try your hand at making one yourself.
Taiyaki Workshop in Kurikoma Read More »
The kokeshi doll, born in the Tohoku region first as a toy, took on new life as an item travelers visiting the hot springs of the region would take back with them as a souvenir. In this experience, paint their own original kokeshi doll using the same kind of brushes and electric lathe the artisans themselves do.
Kokeshi doll painting experience Read More »
Established in 1836, Tadami Kogyosho is a tatami mat maker with a long history.This hands-on experience offers guests the opportunity to use the tools of a tatami craftsman to make their own mini tatami mat. Select from some 10 kinds of tatami mat bases, and over 300 styles of tatami mat borders. After selecting your base and border, make your original mini tatami mat—the only one like it in the world!
Mini Tatami Mat Workshop Read More »
Experience true freedom and tranquility in the remote mountains of Miyagi at an onsen ryokan without electricity. With only lamps to light your way, digitally detox and experience nature to the fullest. Includes full English language support.
Digital Detox in Miyagi’s Northern Mountains Read More »
