Ojiya City Koi
Ojiya City is the birthplace for Japanese koi, and offers unique experiences to visit koi farms like Nishikigoi no Sato.
Experiences
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.
Sea to Table Experiences in Yamagata
Catch your own fish or shop for some at a local market, then watch or work alongside as a professional Japanese chef prepares it.
Sea to Table Experiences in Yamagata Read More »
Experience the Yonezawa Uesugi Festival
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 18, 2026.
Experience the Yonezawa Uesugi Festival Read More »
Cycling in Yamagata Prefecture
Leave the car behind and explore the wide open plains of Yamagata Prefecture on a guided cycling tour!
Cycling in Yamagata Prefecture Read More »
Explore the Ancient Forest of Mt. Haguro
A guided hike up the 2,446 stone steps of holy Mount Haguro, with a lunch of Dewa Sanzan shojin ryori mountain monk cuisine.
Explore the Ancient Forest of Mt. Haguro Read More »
Farmer Homestay Programs in Yamagata Prefecture
Experience rural Japan life with a farmstay experience in Yamagata. Harvest or plant crops, and learn to cook traditional dishes.
Farmer Homestay Programs in Yamagata Prefecture Read More »
Yamabushi Shojin Ryori Overnight Experience
Dine on Dewa Sanzan shojin ryori, sleep at a pilgrim’s lodge. Wake the next morning to harvest vegetables and learn to cook this cuisine.
Yamabushi Shojin Ryori Overnight Experience Read More »
Iaido Samurai Experiences in Murayama City
Experience Iaido, a traditional sword-based martial art, at the very place it was founded: Iai Shrine in Yamagata Prefecture.
Iaido Samurai Experiences in Murayama City Read More »
Yamabushi Training on Mt. Kinbo
Venture into the nature of Yamagata with yamabushi mountain monks along their ancient training paths on Mount Kinbo.
Yamabushi Training on Mt. Kinbo Read More »
Mountain Vegetable Foraging
Forage for sansai (wild mountain vegetables, herbs, and mushrooms) in the pristine nature of Mount Gassan, Yamagata with a veteran guide.
Mountain Vegetable Foraging Read More »