Yamagata Forest Kayaking
Kayak through the submerged forests of Yamagata in the dams of Iide high up in mountains during the spring time.
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
Take a look at some of the most popular tours and experiences for Spring and Summer!
Shiogama Market Tour and Sushi Workshop
After a tour of the famous Shiogama tuna auction and purchasing fish at the nearby wholesale market, learn from a local chef how to work with multiple types of Japanese knives to prepare rolled and nigiri sushi by hand with fresh ingredients from Miyagi.
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 15, 2026.
Featured Tour Packages
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.
Two Day Cuisine and Culture in Kaminoyama and Yamagata Tour
On this 1 night, 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.
Spiritual 3-day Tour Package in Shonai, Yamagata
Immerse yourself in the spirituality of the Dewa Sanzan Mountains in this active 3 day and 2 night experience.
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.
