Early Summer Exclusive: Create a One-of-a-Kind Indigo-Dyed Work
This 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
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
Take a look at our latest tours and experiences!
Yamagata Hanagasa Festival Package Tour
Experience Japan as only the locals do as a performer in one of Tohoku’s big three parades. This 2 night tour gives you the chance to not only watch, but take part in the festival itself. 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.
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.
Featured Tour Packages
Southern Tohoku and Niigata Adventure Tour
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.
Two Day Cuisine and Culture in Kaminoyama and Yamagata Tour
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.
3 Day 2 Night Tour in Niigata
Experience the splendor of Niigata Prefecture in this 3 day, 2 night tour plan. Make your own Japanese knife, onsen ryokan lodging, and more.
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.
