YAMAGATA EXPERIENCE
Unbeaten Tracks 3-Day Model Course JPN
Isabella Bird's Unbeaten Tracks: A 3-Day Model Course
Inspired by Isabella Bird's pioneering spirit, this 3-day model course combines the best of our hiking, e-biking, and culinary experiences, allowing you to truly immerse yourself in the "Arcadia of Asia."
Isabella Bird, a remarkable 19th-century British explorer, defied the conventions of her time to become one of the first Western women to extensively travel and document the remote regions of Japan. Her vivid accounts in "Unbeaten Tracks in Japan" paint a picture of a country still largely untouched by Western influence, and she famously described the Okitama Valley as the "Arcadia of Asia" for its extraordinary beauty and bounty.
This itinerary is designed to follow the spirit of her journey, particularly along sections of the historic 13 Touge Route (Echigo Yonezawa Kaido). This ancient mountain road, with a history spanning over 500 years, served as a vital artery for trade and travel between the Echigo (Niigata) and Yonezawa (Yamagata) regions. It witnessed centuries of samurai, merchants, and pilgrims traversing its challenging passes, making it a living testament to Japan's rich past.
Day 1: Wild Foods & Matagi Traditions
Afternoon Arrival & Forest Immersion
14:00: Pick up at Akayu Station, followed by a scenic transfer to your unique Oguni Matagi accommodation.
15:20: Embark on a short, refreshing hike to the Nukumi Daira Giant Beech Forest at the foot of the majestic Mt. Iide. Breathe in the ancient air and admire the towering trees.
16:00: Experience a genuine Matagi (traditional hunter) encounter. Join Mr. Dragon, the revered guardian of the forest, as you learn about and collect wild foods, gaining insight into sustainable foraging traditions.
18:00: Enjoy a heartwarming dinner with a Matagi family, sharing stories and savoring local delicacies prepared with ingredients grown by the family.
Day 2: Historic Passes & Valley Vistas
Hiking, E-Biking & Local Encounters
07:00: Enjoy a traditional Japanese breakfast at your accommodation.
08:00: Depart for the Kurosawa Touge hiking trail head.
08:45: Begin your ascent of Kurosawa Touge, marveling at the amazingly preserved stone steps and the spectacular views of the Iide mountain range.
11:00: Transition to e-bikes and enjoy a comfortable ride to the charming Shirakosawa Village.
12:00: Share a delightful lunch with locals at Shirakosawa Village, experiencing authentic rural hospitality.
13:00: A short e-bike ride takes you to the start of Utsu Touge.
13:30: Begin your hike over Utsu Touge, the final leg to the Okitama Plains, offering amazing panoramic views of the valley.
15:00: Change back to e-bikes and cycle leisurely to the historic Tenoko Shrine.
16:00: Arrive at Tenoko Shrine, then transfer to your relaxing accommodation at Kaminoyu Hotel.
16:30: Unwind and rejuvenate with a soak in the onsen (hot spring and sauna) and enjoy some free time.
18:00: Indulge in a delicious dinner at a local izakaya, specializing in the region's unique culinary delights.
20:00: Return to the ryokan for a peaceful night's rest.
Day 3: Farm to Table Ramen Masterclass
This itinerary offers a comprehensive and authentic experience of Yamagata, blending adventure, history, culture, and culinary delights, all inspired by the "unbeaten tracks" of Isabella Bird.
Culinary Immersion & Departure
08:00: Enjoy a delicious breakfast at the ryokan.
10:00: Transfer to Nagai City for your immersive Farm to Table Ramen Tour.
10:30: Begin your e-bike tour, with a quick practice ride before setting off on your culinary journey through the old town.
10:45: Visit an old trade house and a historic miso factory in the charming old town, learning about traditional production.
11:30: E-bike to a scenic lookout point.
12:00: Take in the breathtaking views of the Okitama Valley from the lookout.
12:15: E-bike to a local farm, ready to connect with the land.
12:45: Enjoy a light lunch with a local farming family, experiencing their warm hospitality.
13:15: E-bike to another local farm for harvesting fresh, seasonal vegetables for your ramen.
14:00: Arrive at a real ramen restaurant and begin your hands-on ramen-making masterclass! Learn to make chashu, create your own karamiso, cook vegetables, mix the perfect soup, and prepare fresh noodles.
15:30: Savor the fruits of your labor as you eat your very own handmade ramen – a truly satisfying experience!
16:00: Transfer to the station or your onward accommodation, concluding your unforgettable journey.
Isabella Bird's Unbeaten Tracks: A 2-Night, 3-Day Luxury Model Course
Experience the "Arcadia of Asia" with unparalleled comfort and exclusive insights. This luxury model course is meticulously crafted to blend Isabella Bird's spirit of discovery with refined accommodations, gourmet dining, and unique cultural encounters, offering an unforgettable journey through Yamagata's Okitama Valley.
Day 1: Sacred Traditions & Culinary Indulgence
Afternoon Arrival & Cultural Immersion
14:00: Begin your opulent journey with a pick-up from Akayu Station, ensuring a seamless transition to your first cultural stop.
14:30: Enjoy a short, exclusive visit to Kumano Taisha, one of Yamagata's most impressive and ancient shrines. Experience the serene atmosphere and receive a special blessing from a Shinto priest, a unique insight into Japan's spiritual heritage.
16:00: Transfer to YAMAGATA THE TAKINAMI, your luxurious ryokan accommodation, renowned for its exquisite service and tranquil ambiance.
16:30: Relax and rejuvenate with a private soak in The Takinami's exquisite onsen (hot spring baths), preparing for an evening of indulgence.
18:00: Join an exclusive sake tasting session before dinner, sampling premium local brews and learning about Yamagata's celebrated sake tradition.
19:00: Savor a magnificent Michelin chef live kitchen dinner, featuring the finest local, seasonal ingredients transformed into culinary masterpieces before your eyes.
Stay: YAMAGATA THE TAKINAMI
Day 2: Elevated Exploration & Local Flavors
Active Discovery & Refined Comfort
Optional: 6:30 Begin your day with a breathtaking sunrise hot air balloon ride over the Okitama Valley, offering unparalleled panoramic views (additional cost, weather permitting).
07:30: Enjoy a gourmet breakfast at The Takinami, prepared with the freshest local produce.
09:00: Embark on your Hiking, E-Biking & Local Encounters adventure. This day mirrors the core of our classic tour, taking you through historic passes like Kurosawa Touge and Utsu Touge, with stunning valley vistas.
Upgraded Lunch: Instead of a simple local lunch, enjoy a specially prepared meal by a local chef, featuring elevated regional cuisine in a picturesque setting.
16:00: Return to The Takinami, with ample time to relax in the onsen or enjoy the ryokan's amenities.
Optional: Experience a lively karaoke tour in the evening, a quintessential Japanese pastime for a fun cultural immersion (additional cost).
Stay: YAMAGATA THE TAKINAMI
Day 3: Bespoke Adventures & Departure
This itinerary offers a truly indulgent and authentic journey through Yamagata, blending adventure, history, culture, and culinary delights, all inspired by the "unbeaten tracks" of Isabella Bird, with an emphasis on comfort and exclusive experiences.
Choose Your Morning & Seamless Departure
08:00: Enjoy a final sumptuous breakfast at The Takinami.
Morning Choice (Choose ONE):
Ramen Tour (Express Version):
09:00: Enjoy a short e-bike ride around local farms to collect fresh vegetables, connecting with the source of Yamagata's renowned produce.
09:30: Arrive at a top ramen restaurant for a focused ramen-making masterclass with a professional chef. Learn to craft soup, chashu, karamiso, and noodles, then savor your delicious creation.
Private Canoe Tour to Mifuchi Gorge:
09:00: Transfer to the serene Mifuchi Gorge for a private canoe tour. Paddle through crystal-clear mountain waters, experiencing the tranquility and dramatic beauty of the gorge from a unique perspective. This peaceful journey offers stunning natural scenery and includes a delicious floating lunch, specially prepared by a local chef, to be enjoyed amidst the breathtaking surroundings.
12:00 (approx): Conclude your chosen morning activity.
13:00 (approx): Transfer to the bullet train station for your onward journey, carrying unforgettable memories of your luxury Yamagata experience.
Contact us
If you have any questions about our tours, or if you would like to make a reservation, feel free to contact us using this form. A member of our staff will get back to you shortly.
For plans that include accommodation, arrangements are made by YAMAGATA Arcadia Tourism Bureau (Travel Agency License No. 2-292, issued by the Governor of Yamagata Prefecture).
YAMAGATA EXPERIENCE
canoe@hacinc.jp
Unbeaten Tracks 3-Day Model Course JPN
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