2024 Niigata Travel Guide: Must-see attractions, popular food, hotels, transportation routes (updated in November)

Mount Niinoji experience 🏔️🗻

#timetotravel Mt.Ninouji , which greatly envelops Kitaechigo, where Kikusui is rooted, Between the Kaji River and the Tainai River, which are filled with clear thaw water that moistens the fertile land after Kitaechigo. It is a huge peak of the Iide mountain range avant-garde facing the Kambara plain for 20km from north to south. In the daily life of Kitaechigo in the northern part of Niigata prefecture, which is embraced by Mt. Ninouji It is full of magnificent nature, clean water, rich culture and warmth of people. Welcome to Kitaechigo. Here are the treasures of Kitaechigo from the perspective of a traveler. "Daily life in extraordinary life" "Extraordinary in everyday life"

Kakuda beauty mount 🇯🇵🗻⛰️

#timetotravel Located about 30 minutes south of Niigata City by car, Mt. Kakuda, along with it’s taller neighbor Mt. Yahiko, is a beautiful and integral part of Niigata’s landscape. It’s peak tops out at 473m in elevation. Being from Colorado I’m quite fond of blowing a dismissive breath through my lips and saying, “My house is higher than that.” That’s perfectly true, but no mountain in Colorado can be hiked from sea to summit. Several hiking trails lead to the summit of Mt. Kakuda, but the steepest, most difficult (and therefore the most fun) trail starts on Kakuda Beach just below the Cape Kakuda Lighthouse. The route is about 5km in length and despite being steep for the first half of the climb, I found it to be a fun, easy hike. Sakura in full bloom on my third ascent of Kakuda at the end of April served to enhance the already stunning scenery even further.

Paradise for Sake-lovers!

Took much trouble and a torturous one and a half hour standing ride on the Hayabusa to get here. Did not expect to have so much tourist in the late morning, else I qould have set off earlier from Tokyo. So go early if you're planning a day trip from Tokyo like me! Anyways, came all the way here for this amazing sake-vending machine experience! For ¥1000, you'll get an ochoko(sake cup) and 5 tokens. Depending on the type of sake you picked, insert the amount of tokens required to dispense the sake into the cup. You can purchase more tokens at the cashier for ¥100 per token if you would like to try more. Fotunately, I went to try this at noon when no one else drinks in the middle of the day. When I came back in the evening, there was a freaking long queue and I won't even get to enter at all. The 5 sakes that I tried were of the good value and taste for single coin each. There are alao plenty of other merchandise in the store. This sake vending machines is in the closed off area within the store. Will definitely be back for more! #japantravels #niigata #sake #japanesesake #vendingmachine #ponshukan #ochoko #junmai #junmaiginjo #tokubetsujunmai

Sightseeing spot in Niigata

Getting There - city bus or train Attractions - lake, birds, seasonal flowers Food & Restaurants - dinning inside the plaza near the lake Entrance fee - free Niigata lake is famous for it’s seasonal events and bird sightseeing. In summer, there is tons of lotus blooming, the bird sightseeing season will be starting from middle to late April. White bird types - small and big white bird The amount of bird - around 8,000 birds Feeding to birds - not allowed Area - about 260 ha #niigata #japan

Super fresh sashimi tasting in Niigata

Getting There - about 1 hr by car from the Niigata station Attractions - seafood products Food & Restaurants - fresh sashimi, fish and seafood restaurants Shopping - fresh seafood A nice restaurant with fresh and rare seafood. They make fishing at the early morning and sell the fishing and make cuisines, sashimi with the fresh taken fishes and sea food products within one day. #japan #niigata

Niche destination lived in the late 19th century, the current Niigata Prefecture. A few centuries after Michelangelo created mural masterpieces for the Sistine Chapel, Ishikawa also created similar masterpieces in the temples of the area. Yundie is not only an accomplished painter, but also a master of engraving. is a Buddhist temple that displays the carving masterpiece of Yundie. In the temple hall, the huge patio carving is a masterpiece he spent six years, and is widely regarded as his greatest work. This sculpture depicts the famous Taoist Zen master who met tigers in China. Surprisingly, this century-old Xifu Temple is quite well maintained. There are a large number of tourists visiting every day, but in the temple, all the slippers are needed, and even the candlesticks are exquisite and clean. Even after 200 years, until today, when I look at those paintings and sculptures, there are no traces of the years, and they are still beautiful and vivid. Address: Yuki-ku, Niigata Prefecture 174, Ikebukuro Visit time: 9:00 - 15

Niigata, a charming city on the coast of the Sea of Japan.

Here, the vast Sea of Japan stretches out, with waves crashing against the long coastline, like the heartbeat of the earth. The golden beaches are dotted with colorful shells and smooth pebbles, a treasure trove for children. At low tide, the mudflats are revealed, and small crabs scurry away, showcasing a different kind of vitality. Niigata's mountains are majestic, offering a unique color feast in every season. In spring, wildflowers bloom all over the mountains, like a colorful painting; in summer, the lush greenery provides a cool retreat; in autumn, the mountains are ablaze with red, and the maple leaves are like fire; in winter, the snow-covered mountains contrast beautifully with the blue sky. In the city, traditional Japanese gardens are exquisite and elegant, with small bridges, flowing water, rockeries, and carefully pruned vegetation complementing each other, exuding a rustic and tranquil atmosphere. Niigata, at any time and place, attracts the world with its unique beauty.

Northern Culture museum

#voyagevibes A museum that preserves and opens to the public the residence and gardens of the Ito family, the richest farmer in Niigata. On a vast site of about 8,800 tsubo, you can enjoy magnificent buildings such as the main house, large hall, tea room, etc., as well as the pond-spring touring garden by the master craftsman Yasuami Tanaka, and art collections focussing on oriental art by successive heads of the family. It is on display. A synonym for Ito's residence can be said to be the large wisteria shelf that spreads out from a 150-year-old wisteria tree, which reaches its best around May. In autumn, it is also recommended to look at the garden dyed in autumn leaves from a large hall of 100 tatami mats. Scenery of the four seasons, such as cherry blossoms, lotus, and snow scenery, is also one of the highlights. Accommodation, restaurants, souvenir shops, etc. are also well-equipped, so you can slowly enjoy the history and culture of Niigata. #japan #backpacker

A 6-day Japan itinerary you must see!

Essential for Japan travel! A 6-day itinerary to help you explore Japan without any regrets. All the best attractions and food recommendations in one article! Save it now! -------- Japan is located in East Asia and has a rich cultural heritage. 🗾 It has a long history and is full of historical sites, such as the Kinkaku-ji Temple in Kyoto 🏯. It is often called the Land of Cherry Blossoms 🌸, and every spring, the trees are in full bloom, creating a breathtaking sight. -------- 🌸Itinerary: Day 1: Home of Koi Fish Visit the home of koi fish and experience a unique aquatic culture. Day 2: Senso-ji Temple - Imperial Palace East Garden - Akihabara Electric Town - Ginza Travel through history and modernity, from the tranquility of Senso-ji Temple, the majesty of the Imperial Palace, the bustling Akihabara, to the elegance of Ginza, all in one day. Day 3: Mount Fuji - Oshino Hakkai Climb Mount Fuji and enjoy the beauty of nature; then visit Oshino Hakkai and explore its unique landforms. Day 4: Kiyomizu-dera Temple - Sannenzaka and Ninenzaka - Nara Park - Kasuga-taisha Shrine Experience traditional Japanese culture with ancient temples and old streets, the tranquility of parks, and the mystery of shrines. Day 5: Osaka Castle Park - Osaka Tenmangu Shrine - Kuromon Market - Universal Studios Japan Discover the diverse charm of Osaka, from its rich history to modern attractions. Day 6: End of a pleasant trip to Japan With fond memories, take an international flight, bid farewell to Japan, and look forward to the next visit! -------- Tips: - The temperature in Japan in November is moderate, around 10°C during the day and slightly cooler at night, so remember to bring a light jacket. 🧥 - Japan is 1 hour ahead of China, so remember to adjust your time to avoid missing out on your itinerary. ⏰ - The local currency is the Japanese yen, and the exchange rate fluctuates, so it is recommended to check in advance and prepare cash. 💴 - Learn a few simple Japanese phrases before you go to get closer to the local culture and enhance your travel experience! 🗣️ - Follow local etiquette, such as keeping quiet in public places and not spitting. 🙅‍♀️ - When trying local food, you can order a small portion first to avoid waste. 🍱 - Pay attention to the return and exchange policy when shopping, and whether you need to pay consumption tax. 🛍️ - Dress appropriately when visiting temples and other places to show respect. 👘 - Japan has very convenient transportation, with subways and buses being the main modes of travel. 🚇 - Carry rain gear with you, as it often rains in Japan in November, so don't let the rain affect your mood. 🌧️ - In case of emergency, you can call 110 for help, as safety is always the top priority when traveling. 🆘 -------- 🌟Don't forget to like and save, and follow me for more Japan travel tips to help you explore Japan without any regrets!🌟

Niigata, a charming place that combines natural scenery and traditional culture.

❄️1. The charm of the snow country and the land of rice Niigata is both a "snow country" and a "land of rice." It is not only the source of inspiration for Yasunari Kawabata's "Snow Country," but also an ideal place to taste the "World Rice King" Koshihikari rice.🌿 ⛷️ 2. The perfect combination of skiing and hot springs Niigata is located near the Sea of Japan, with a high amount of snow in winter, making it a skiing destination for the Japanese. The ski season lasts from November to May, with more than 50 ski resorts, among which Gala Ski Resort is popular for its convenience.🌿 🏊 3. The land of hot springs Niigata is not only a skiing destination, but also a hot spring paradise, with about 100 hot springs for visitors to choose from. Various open-air hot springs and hot spring water with different minerals allow you to get close to nature and relax.🌿 🚣4. Quiet coast Niigata is a quiet port city with a unique charm away from the hustle and bustle. Walk to the seaside, feel the sea breeze, and enjoy the quiet and open sea view.🌿 🌲5. Sado Island, the island of performing arts Sado Island in Niigata Prefecture is known as the "island of performing arts," inheriting a rich culture and performing arts, such as Oni Daiko and Sado OKESA folk songs. Experience the fun of gold panning by riding a tarai-bune boat and exploring Sado Kinzan, the largest gold and silver mine in modern Japan.🌿 🌲 6. The nature and art of Tokamachi Tokamachi City is located in the southern part of Niigata Prefecture, with the most beautiful natural scenery in Japan, including Kiyotsu Gorge, Bijinbayashi Forest, and Hoshitoge Rice Terraces. The Echigo-Tsumari Art Triennale is held every three years, with nearly 300 artworks complementing nature. ⛷️7. Winter snow festival The Tokamachi area is covered with about 2–3 meters of snow every year, and a snow festival is held, including giant snow sculptures, entertainment programs, fireworks shows, art exhibitions, and other activities.🌿 🌴 8. Kimono making experience Tokamachi has a long history of kimono making, and every May, visitors are organized to visit kimono factories to learn about the kimono making process in Tokamachi.🌿 🥗 9. Local cuisine Niigata's cuisine is also a highlight of the trip. The winter snow has nurtured many local specialties, such as Koshihikari rice and special soba noodles.🥗🥎🥎🥎 🌲10. Ancient national treasure Tokamachi has one of the oldest national treasures, the flame-shaped pottery, dating back to 3400–2400 BC.🌿 🏞Niigata, a place full of natural beauty, traditional culture, and modern vitality, is waiting for you to explore. Whether it's skiing, soaking in hot springs, tasting food, or experiencing art and history, Niigata can meet your expectations.🌈🌹🌹🌹🌹🌹🌹

There are many fun things to discover in Niigata, Japan!

Go to the sea and enjoy the city view. Visit Furumachi and explore interesting shops. Sit in the garden and enjoy Japanese tea. Visit the aquarium to see small animals. Go to the hot spring and have a fried chicken set meal after the bath. Experience the Showa bathhouse. Niigata Prefecture is famous for its magnificent natural landscapes. 👂️One of the most famous attractions is Yukimura Mountain, which is 2,400 meters above sea level and is one of the most beautiful mountain ranges in Japan. At the top of the mountain, you can enjoy breathtaking sunrises and sea of clouds. In addition, Niigata has many lakes and rivers, such as Nagai River and Nakatsugawa River, which offer a variety of water activities such as boating, fishing, and rafting. 🤔 Secondly, Niigata Prefecture has a long history and rich cultural heritage. Here, you can visit many ancient temples and shrines, such as Matsumoto Temple in Takada City and Tendo Temple in Kashiwazaki City. These temples and shrines not only showcase traditional Japanese architectural styles, but also inherit rich religious cultures. In addition, Niigata has many museums and art galleries, such as the Bandai Bridge Art Museum in Niigata City and the Niigata Historical Village in Kashiwazaki City, which allow you to learn more about the history and culture of Niigata. 😆

Our summer vacation

#summerdestinations It’s our second time in niigata prefecture and I was amazed by the place. We stayed at Art hotel just very close to the main station of niigata. There’s a lot of restaurants located around the hotel to choose. It is near in the bus station going to beach and aquarium. We had a lot of fun during our stay in Niigata. My daughter had a very nice experience on this trip. We will definitely visit Niigata again. #trip #familytrip #goodfoods

Review of Art Hotel Niigata Station

✨Hotel Highlights amazing city view, a lot of restaurants near the hotel just a walking distance.Near Niigata station ♨️Amenities complete amenities 🛁Room Environment though the room has a smell of like old carper, there staff are so friendly. 🍽️Breakfast is great! 🛎️Hotel Service I am disappointed when I called there staff but while talking she ended up. 💗Guest Experience A bit disappointed on there one of the staff, and the smell of the hotel in the aisle. #summerdestinations #familytrip #trip #goodfoods

My first time seeing this big 😍

The little cute nemo catches our eyes

The Niigata Aquarium is so amazing 😍

#summerdestinations

View Fukushimagata

#familytrips2024 It is an observation facility where you can view Fukushima Lagoon, and it has a full range of facilities, including an observation space, a rest area, a snack cafe corner, a library corner, a shop where you can buy souvenirs, and vending machines. Pleasant museum with view out over the wetlands. Has models of the fauna, and various informational videos. English translations for some exhibits are available via qr code. The wetlands are a lovely walk with rape flowers in the spring, and a birdwatching station.

Niigata Senbei Oukoku (Rice Cracker Kingdom)

#familytrips2024 We had a lot of fun making our own senbei. It took maybe 20ish mins total. They also gave us a couple large boxes full of various rice cracker products for free! Great experience for families, friends, and couples. Buy specialty and rare senbei crackers direct from the source. The place is quite small and hours were a bit short but it was fun. There are three types of hands on experiences you can do. Kids and adults welcome! Paint, grill, and flavor a large rice cracker, a smaller one (size of face), or flavor pre-made with different spices. The cafe had really good croquette and cute soft cream. You’d spend about 20 minutes there just walking around and about 50min if you try one of the experiences.

Yamanoshita Minato Tower 山の下みなとタワー

#familytrips2024 This facility was constructed as a ventilation tower on the mountain side of the Niigata Minato Tunnel. There is a walkway running underground, and many people use it for running, etc. The observation exhibition room on the 6th floor (height 27 meters) offers a panoramic view of Niigata West Port and the city area, as well as panel exhibits where you can deepen your knowledge about the history of Niigata Port and its overview. Because it is adjacent to Minato Land, it is busier than the tower on the entrance side.

Niigata Airport exploring

Niigata airport has been mainly used for domestic flights and international flights from Asia. Niigata prefecture faces the Sea of Japan and it is so close to China, South Korea and Russia. So many foreign tourists have been used Niigata Airport as an aerial gateway to northern Japan. Niigata Airport is located 6.7 km northeast of Niigata station in Niigata prefecture. Take shuffle bus or taxi can transfer from Niigata station to airport. At the duty free, Japanese rice crackers and sake are famous for its origins of Niigata products. Sazadengo, the Japanese sticky rice dessert is also well known for its regional food. #Japan #Niigata

Kingdom of Japanese rice cracker factory

Getting the experience of how pros make the rice crackers and get experience of your hand make rice crackers. Decorated and drawn by your own design and can create rice cracker bigger than the face. Niigata Sembei Okoku is located in the Niigata city in Niigata prefecture. It is the main factory for Japanese rice crackers around Japan. Inside the factory, the visitors can able to see how to bake the rice crackers in real behind the glass door. You can also enjoy buying rice crackers with the cheapest price directly from the factory. Opening hours - 9:30 to 17:00 Address - 2661 Niizaki, Kita-ku, Niigata city, Niigata prefecture #Japan

Niigata airport

Niigata airport is convenient for domestic flights. A few china international flights are flying from Niigata to China. Peach, ANA, Toki, Fuji dream airlines are flying domestically everyday. The first airport on the Sea of Japan coast of Japan was opened on an island in the Shinano River in 1929. This airport was moved to what was then the village of Matsugazakahama in 1930, and was renamed Niigata Airport. It was requisitioned for use by the Imperial Japanese Army Air Force in 1941, and came under the control of the USAAF after the end of World War II. It was returned to Japanese civilian control on March 31, 1958.

Niigata Fukushimagata park 🇯🇵

#cherryblossom2024 A natural treasure trove of rare plants and animals, including bean geese and water lilies. This urban park in Niigata City is home to over 220 species of wild birds, over 450 species of plants, and is a place where local people gather. There is also a cafe and tea room, self-catering accommodation, and a campsite. Of the 193 hectares of Fukushimagata, 163 hectares are designated as a national wildlife protection area, where from spring to summer, great reed warblers and cuckoos sing in the reed fields, night herons and little egrets gather in flocks in the willow trees, and moorhens and little grebes incubate their eggs at the water's edge amid thickets of wild rice. From autumn to winter, the water's edge becomes lively with bean geese, whooper swans and ducks, and the reed fields are visited by many small birds, including russian bush warblers, Japanese buntings and reed buntings. White-tailed eagles and goshawks can also be seen showing off their majestic figure throughout the winter. Location Water Station "View Fukushimagata" Address: 493 Maeshinden Otsu, Kita-ku, Niigata City, Niigata Prefecture, 950-3324 TEL: 025-387-1491 FAX: 025-384-1200

Snow mountain

Standing at the top of snowy mountain in Niigata prefecture Japan

Niigata Sakura Warm Wind

#cherryblossom2024 The cherry tree "Sakura“ is unique in that, unlike other flowering trees, ”Sakura" first blooms flowers and then spreads its leaves. This is what distinguishes sakura from other spring counterparts. Countless bright flowers blooming on black branches create a perfect combination of colors. One more element is needed, and then nothing can compare with its beauty - the clear blue sky above. On a fine sunny day, when the grass below is already green and the sky above is pure blue, “Hanami" becomes a lifelong event. Today I will quickly introduce the Niigata “offer”. Let’s walk through beauty of this city of snow, sake and cherry blossom flowers together!

Hanani Tsubame Festive Emotions

#cherryblossom2024 The procession under the flowers Every year, with the onset of April, the whole of Japan freezes to admire the flowering of cherry trees. The usual pink color is beautiful in itself. However, the city of Tsubame in Niigata Prefecture has taken the sakura festival to a new level — thanks to night lighting and a festive procession. How to get there The festival, which takes place in Tsubama, is easily accessible by car or public transport. If you are traveling by train, you need to take the Joetsu Shinkansen to Niigata Station, and then transfer to the Echigo commuter line and get off at Bunsui Station. It is a twenty—minute walk to the Okozu Shore, and five minutes to the main street of Jizodo. If you are traveling by car, the Okozu Coast is 25 minutes from any of the Nakanoshima-Mitsuke and Sanjo-Tsubame intersections on the Hokuriku Highway. A shuttle bus runs from Bunsui Station, which stops near the riverbank where sakura grows. It is interesting About 2,600 trees bloom along the banks of the Okozu River The Oiran Doyu procession is attended by oiran — high-class courtesans of ancient Japan Sakura in the new world Along the banks of the Okozu River, 2,600 sakura trees are covered with flowers of romantic pink shades every year. It is especially good to come here in the evening, when the flowers are flooded with pink and purple lights, and reality turns into a fairy tale. The procession in costumes Every year, on the third Sunday of April, there is a holiday called Oiran Dotyu. About 70 volunteers are parading under the blooming sakura trees on the main street of Jizodo. The focus is on three courtesans dressed in gorgeous traditional costumes and 15-centimeter wooden patent-leather geta sandals with three "teeth". Some participants carry huge Japanese paper wagasa umbrellas, adding color to the procession.

Hiyoriyama Observation Platform

#cherryblossom2024 The Hiyoriyama Observation Platform is a popular tourist attraction located in Ishinomaki, Miyagi Prefecture, Japan. Here are some details about the observatory: 1. **Location**: Situated on Hiyoriyama Hill, the observation platform offers panoramic views of the city of Ishinomaki, the Kitakami River, and the Pacific Ocean. 2. **Memorial**: The site is also known for the Hiyoriyama Memorial Monument, which commemorates the lives lost during the Great East Japan Earthquake and Tsunami in 2011. 3. **Access**: Visitors can access the observation platform by car or foot. It is a short hike up the hill to reach the viewing area. 4. **Scenic Views**: The observatory provides stunning views of the surrounding landscape, making it a popular spot for photography and sightseeing. 5. **History**: The Hiyoriyama Observation Platform played a significant role during the aftermath of the 2011 tsunami, serving as a place of refuge and communication for survivors. If you plan to visit the Hiyoriyama Observation Platform, it is recommended to check the opening hours, accessibility options, and any additional information beforehand to make the most of your visit.

Northern Culture Museum

#japantrip A lovely piece of Niigata culture just north of Niigata city. The entire location pays homage to a previous age, from the rice storage and traditional kitchens, to the expansive tatami rooms rich with history, to the well-tended wisteria gardens that flourish in late spring, this Northern Culture Museum is an education in traditional Japanese cultural practice. Even in winter, the main garden was spectacular, but if you want to see incomparable beauty, I would recommend mid-autumn or during the spring when there are cherry blossoms, but just exploring the grounds and many rooms in the museum was an edifying and satisfying experience.

Uwasekigata Park

#japantrip This season is the best time to see the full bloom of cosmos flowers. It is so lovely and I even took a lot of pictures. The straw festival is on-going too, you may able to see work of art using straws . The park is wide and spacious for walking or jogging. The kids may enjoy at the playground that has colorful slides, monkey bar and even go-kart too. We were lucky to see the swans relaxing just beside the pond. I like the park and I enjoyed so much because of the lovely cosmos field.

Niigata city history museum😻

#cherryblossom2024 The Minatopia was established according to Niigata City’s History Museum Code to explain the history of Niigata City, to deepen the understanding of its history among the citizens, and to contribute to the social and cultural activities of the citizens by helping citizens intercommunicate, with history as an intermediary. Location: Niigata City, Niigata Prefecture Client: Niigata City Design: MHS Planners, Architects & Engineers Completion of construction: March 2004 Materials provided by: Katsuhiko Watanabe (Toshiba Lighting & Technology Corporation) There is a Niigata City Loop Bus stop ' Rekishi Hakubutsukan mae (歴史博物館前)' near the museum. There is another bus stop ' Minatomachi Ninochō (湊町二ノ町)', 8 minutes' walk away from the museum. Transit bus operated by Niigata Kotsu C70 (line: C7) runs from Niigata Station Bandai Exit.