About Us

We are travelers, too. 

The Japan that fascinated us most was rarely the one on the surface. It was the Japan found in stories, traditions, and everyday lives. Japan Sideways exists to share those stories—and the journeys they inspire. 

Known to most guests as Yoshi, Tsuyoshi Tagawa is a National Government Licensed Guide Interpreter based in Tambasasayama, Hyogo Prefecture.

After spending more than 20 years living and working abroad, he returned to Japan and, together with his wife, made Tambasasayama their home. There, they opened a small guesthouse and became part of the local community.

Today, Yoshi helps travelers discover a deeper side of Japan through meaningful encounters with local artisans, farmers, and residents.

Yoshi is also a farmer. If your journey takes you to Tambasasayama, you may even have the chance to enjoy rice and vegetables grown in his own fields.

Yuki is the founder and representative of TIME and DESIGN Co., Ltd., a Kyoto-based design company.

A textile designer and artist, she creates hand-dyed fabrics inspired by Japan's culture, landscapes, and everyday life. She regularly travels throughout the country in search of new stories, crafts, and creative communities.

On Japan Sideways journeys, Yuki enjoys learning alongside guests and sharing the people, places, and traditions that continue to inspire her work.

私たちは、日本のまだあまり知られていない魅力や物語を海外の方々に伝える活動をしています。
もし日本各地で独自のツアーや体験を企画・運営されている方がいらっしゃいましたら、ぜひお話をお聞かせください。
地域に根ざした文化、人々の暮らし、ものづくりの現場など、表面的な観光だけでは出会えない日本を一緒に紹介していける仲間を探しています。
ご興味のある方は、お気軽にご連絡ください。

At Japan Sideways, we share stories and journeys that reveal a deeper side of Japan—one that often remains unseen by most visitors.
If you organize unique tours, workshops, cultural experiences, or community-based activities anywhere in Japan, we would love to hear from you.
We are looking for partners who are passionate about introducing local culture, craftsmanship, history, and everyday life in meaningful ways.
If this sounds like you, please get in touch. We'd be delighted to start a conversation.