Farm Stay in Japan: Rural Farm Life Experience in Yamagata
During this hands-on farm stay in Japan, join the Onodera family in their 100-year-old farmhouse in Yamagata and experience an early-morning harvest and cooking class with local produce.
Highlights
Spend the night in a traditional farmer’s home in the rural countryside of Yamagata
Harvest a variety of heirlooms crops in Tsuruoka, Yamagata
Work alongside farmers and a local guide
Have a cooking class with seasonal produce
10 meals
Experience Details
Experience the warmth and hospitality of farmers in Yamagata prefecture, staying overnight at a charming traditional farmhouse and joining in on a harvesting experience followed by a cooking class the next day.
The experience begins in rural Tsuruoka, Yamagata prefecture, at a Japanese farmhouse surrounded by lush green fields. After meeting the Onodera family and touring their home–a cozy, traditional farmhouse that was built 100 years ago in the middle of a huge expanse of rice fields–you’ll settle into your rooms and have some free time to explore the village before dinner.
The evening’s meal is an introduction to the traditional farmer’s cuisine of Tsuruoka city. The menu was personally developed by Norimasa Onodera. Depending on the season, the menu will change throughout the year, as it uses fresh local ingredients from the Shonai region of Yamagata.
Since the harvest starts very early in the morning, guests are advised to go to bed and get some rest after dinner. The next day, a local guide will join the group of guests and farmers. Learn about how the farmers in Tsuruoka harvest their crops and get your hands a little dirty when you join in on the action!
Depending on the season and type of crop, this farm stay in Japan may also include a trip to the local factory where visitors can see how the produce is processed before being shipped to Japan’s high-end restaurants and luxury shops.
Then, back at the farmhouse, you’ll have a cooking lesson with Norimasa, learning how to make some of his signature dishes with in-season, local ingredients.
What You Get
Good To Know
- Please wear appropriate shoes for walking (boots are available)
- Please bring a rain coat
- Be sure to let us know of any dietary restrictions or allergies you may have
Meeting Point and Meeting Time
Meet your host at the farmers' home in Tsuruoka City. Specific instructions will be given upon booking.
Cancellation Policy
Cancel your booking at least 48 hours before the experience start time to receive a full refund minus a 3.2% transaction fee.
Experience Location
Tsuruoka City in Yamagata Prefecture is located along the Sea of Japan and features stunning landscape views. Nature-lovers will find themselves drawn to the beaches Yunohaa and Sanze, as well as Dewasanzan (Three Mountains of Dewa). Foodies will also find much to enjoy, as Tsuruoka was recognized as a UNESCO Creative City of Gastronomy for its ancestral food, including Shojin Ryori (the vegetarian Buddhist cuisine). Other major attractions include the Kamo Aquarium, hot springs, and festivals such as Tenjin Matsuri in May and Oyama Dog Festival in June.
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10 meals