People to People.
People to Places.
Making
Connections
a Joy.
JOIN
A Journey That Calls You Back,
Time and Again
Imagine leaving with new friendships that feel like family―the kind of bonds that make you want to return. That’s the unique experience you’ll find on a Tsuruoka JOIN journey.
Our goal is to create a community of “travel families,” helping sustain local communities through meaningful travel. For those looking to contribute to the places they visit, Tsuruoka JOIN offers ethical journeys designed to make a difference, each season bringing something new.
Tsuruoka JOIN is here to make your connection with Tsuruoka joyful and memorable.
Connecting People, Making Travel an Adventure
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Concierge Tour
Becoming a one-day apprentice with the Regendary madam
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Concierge Tour
Shokuraku
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Event-Based Tour
A Journey of Wellness and Culinary Traditions Through the Modern Kitamae-bune Route
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SERVICE
PLAN CREATION
We craft and offer unique travel plans that reflect the insights of a professional team deeply rooted in the local culture. Our programs are designed to foster meaningful connections between travelers and local villagers, creating authentic, memorable experiences. We also provide budget-friendly options that leverage regional transportation networks, allowing travelers to explore and appreciate the local charm in a way that’s both convenient and immersive.
OUR ACTIVITIES
We present a range of activities that allow both locals and travelers to easily participate. These include invaluable traditional events passed down through generations and seasonal outdoor experiences that showcase the beauty of each time of year in the region.
LOCAL
TRANSPORTATION
To ensure a comfortable journey regardless of weather or location, we arrange well-planned local transportation, such as private taxis, to reach hard-to-access spots smoothly. We aim to make travel time itself an enjoyable part of the experience, even during challenging conditions like the snowy winter season.
TSURUOKA JOIN
GUIDE
We proudly collaborate with passionate local guides, including knowledgeable taxi drivers, Tsuruoka fūdo guides who specialize in local food and culture, and Hagurosan (Mt. Haguro) guides. These dedicated locals are eager to share the hidden wonders of Tsuruoka, bringing the spirit of the region to life.
TSURUOKA
PEOPLE
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[001] gira e gira / Kouji Furukado
“The ingredients of Shonai have a natural ability to become delicious.” Koji Furukado, renowned for his culinary magic, wows food lovers worldwide. “I’d love for people to taste the essence, the air of Shonai.”
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[002] Yutagawa Taxi / Yuu Kakizaki
“There’s nothing like the sunset over Shonai’s coast,” says Kakizaki passionately in his native Shonai dialect. He strives to make every ride an experience to remember, transforming travel time into joyful moments.
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[003] Daishinbo _ Kazuhiro Hayasaka
As the host of Daishinbo, Hayasaka humbly welcomes guests from around the world and participates in new community initiatives. Known as a Hagurosan yamabushi monk, he warmly invites travelers to enjoy the comforting Buddhist cuisine prepared by his wife.
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[004] tsukasaya _ Takehiko&Kanae Shoji
“Try this―it’s delicious!” Takehiko and Kanae Shoji, deeply in love with sake, people, and hot springs, bring warmth and fun to every encounter. From their warm personalities to their extraordinary breakfasts, they capture travelers’ hearts and never let go.
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[005] BLESS _ Masayo Ueno
“I want to help travelers feel healthier and happier through yoga.” Masayo Ueno, a yamabushi, offers travelers a unique experience with a special form of yoga that sharpens the senses, blending health with serenity.
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[006] Gyokusenji_Hiromi Saito
“There’s truth in nature; tea ceremony itself evolved from Zen.” With a lovingly tended, breathtaking garden, Hiromi Saito offers travelers a chance to experience the quietude of Zen through tea and nature.
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[007] Kurokawa Noh_Yoshibu Ueno
“For those new to Noh theater, I want to convey its captivating charm.” Ueno hopes travelers will witness the lively beauty of Noh masks and feel the richness of Japan’s traditional performing arts.
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[008] Shonai Zakko_Ryouichi Saito
“To understand why Tsuruoka is a UNESCO City of Gastronomy, one trip won’t be enough.” Saito encourages travelers to return across seasons, experiencing how local ingredients and sake reveal Tsuruoka’s culture in unique ways each time.
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[009] Zenpoji_Eiji Shinozaki
The ancient faith of Japan thrives in Shonai. Zenpoji Temple, a rare example of Shinto-Buddhist fusion, invites visitors to honor Ryujin, the dragon deity, fostering gratitude for nature and daily life.
