Farm Stay in Japan: Rural Farm Life Experience in Yamagata

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.