15 Meticulously Curated Tourist Attractions and Culinary Delights In Niigata Prefecture

When it comes to Niigata Prefecture, many only associate it with its renowned rice and snowy landscapes.

Facing the Sea of Japan, Niigata Prefecture is not only celebrated for its prominent ski resorts and numerous attractions but also renowned as a producer of fresh seafood and exquisite sake. Beyond that, one can revel in the sight of picturesque landscapes that appear splendid even in photographs. In this endeavor, we have thoughtfully curated 15 tourist destinations and culinary delights in Niigata Prefecture, handpicked by the discerning locals.

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Yahiko Shrine: Niigata's Premier Spiritual Sanctuary

Yahiko Shrine（彌彦神社）, affectionately known as "Oyahiko-sama," is reputed as the foremost spiritual nexus in Niigata. Enshrined in history and nestled amidst dense woodlands, this ancient shrine, immortalized in the "Manyoshu," offers a solemn atmosphere where one can bask in the beauty of every season.

The adjacent town, a bustling hub, beckons exploration with its array of hot springs, local delicacies, and specialty stores. A mere 10-minute stroll from the shrine unveils a cable car leading to the summit of Mount Yahiko, granting panoramic views of the Echigo Plain and the majestic Sea of Japan.

• Yahiko Shrine（彌彦神社）Information
• Address: 2887-2 Yahiko, Yahiko Village, Nishikanbara District, Niigata Prefecture
• Access:
  • Approx. 15 minutes on foot from JR Yahiko Station
  • Approx. 30 minutes on foot from JR Tsubame-Sanjo Station
  • Approx. 40 minutes on foot from JR Higashi-Sanjo Station
  • Approx. 10 minutes on foot from JR Yoshida Station
• Business Hours: 8:30–16:00
• Phone: 0256-94-2001
• Official Website: http://www.yahiko-jinjya.or.jp/

Niigata City Aquarium: Japan Sea's Grandeur on Display

Located near the coastline where the sea breeze whispers, Niigata City Aquarium（新潟市水族館 マリンピア日本海）stands as the largest aquarium on the Japan Sea side, captivating visitors of all ages.

At Marinepia Nihonkai, one can encounter approximately 600 species and 30,000 aquatic organisms, predominantly fish. In the colossal aquarium dedicated to the Japan Sea, thousands of fish gracefully swim, providing a mesmerizing spectacle through the ocean tunnel that allows a panoramic view of the Japan Sea. Descend to the ocean floor, and the sensation of walking beneath the sea unfolds. The vibrant and energetic dolphin performances are a highlight not to be missed.

Moreover, the "Marine Wildlife Park," where sea lions and spotted seals leisurely swim, and the creatively presented exhibits like the "Penguin Beach," where one can observe Humboldt penguins nesting, add a distinctive charm to the aquarium.

• Niigata City Aquarium（新潟市水族館 マリンピア日本海）Information
• Address: 5932-445 Nishisenbanamicho, Chuo Ward, Niigata, Niigata Prefecture
• Access: Approx. 15 minutes on foot from JR Niigata Station or approx. 20 minutes by Niigata Kotsu bus, alighting at "Suizokukan-mae"
• Admission: Adults (high school and above) - 1,500 yen; Children (elementary and middle school) - 600 yen; Toddlers (4 years and above) - 200 yen; Infants (3 years and below) - Free
• Business Hours: 9:00–17:00
• Phone: 025-222-7500
• Official Website: https://www.marinepia.or.jp/

Minato no Marche Pia Banda (みなとのマルシェ ピアBandai): Culinary Haven in Niigata

Situated at the confluence of the Shinano River, Bandai Island's "Pia Bandai" stands as a gastronomic haven, marking a transformation from its origins as a fish market. Anchored by the Bandai Island Fresh Fish Center, renowned for its sale of fresh seafood, this locale has blossomed into a hub of cafes and restaurants. In close proximity to Niigata landmarks like "Bandai Bridge" and the "Toki Messe Exhibition Center," its accessibility, coupled with a diverse array of local specialties, renders it a pivotal tourist destination.

At Pia Bandai, a plethora of culinary delights awaits, including conveyor belt sushi joints showcasing local fish varieties and seafood rice bowl establishments. Beyond the bounty of fresh seafood, the market features locally sourced vegetables and fruits, Niigata's prestigious rice and sake, as well as regional delicacies such as Sado Island beef and Murakami pork—making it an ideal spot for shopping and selecting souvenirs.

Visitors can indulge in reasonably priced conveyor belt sushi featuring seasonal Sado ingredients, relish Italian deli fare crafted from Niigata produce, savor tree-ring cakes freshly baked in a café, and partake in fruit-filled sandwiches incorporating Niigata's abundant produce. In essence, Pia Bandai stands as a gastronomic haven that no culinary enthusiast should miss in Niigata.

• Minato no Marche Pia Banda (みなとのマルシェ ピアBandai) Information
• Address: 2 Bandaijima, Chuo Ward, Niigata, Niigata Prefecture
• Access:
  • Take the Toki Messe and Sado Ferry Line bus from JR Niigata Station, alighting at "Pia Bandai Mae"
  • Take a bus from JR Niigata Station, approximately 10 minutes, alighting at "Miyauchi Chugaku Mae" and walking about 20 minutes
  • Take the Niigata City Sightseeing Loop Bus, alighting at "Pia Bandai"
• Admission: Adults (high school and above) - 1,500 yen; Children (elementary and middle school) - 600 yen; Toddlers (4 years and above) - 200 yen; Infants (3 years and below) - Free
• Phone: 025-249-2560
• Official Website: http://www.bandai-nigiwai.jp/

Hoppo Bunka Museum: Immerse in Niigata's Historical Culture

During the mid-Edo period, the Ito family of Niigata, initially farmers, prospered over generations to become the largest landowners in Echigo. Despite losing substantial land post-war due to agricultural reforms, the Ito family preserved their estate, gardens, and artworks for future generations. Their contribution led to the establishment of the Hoppo Bunka Museum.

The museum showcases the opulent residence and gardens of the prosperous farmer Ito family, covering approximately 8,800 square meters. Visitors can marvel at grand structures like the main house, large hall, and tea room, alongside a pond garden designed by master craftsman Tanaka Taibi. The collection also features exquisite artworks.

A focal point is the massive wisteria trellis, a symbol of the Ito family, blooming on a 150-year-old wisteria tree, reaching its peak around May. Guests are recommended to view the garden, transformed by autumn leaves, from the spacious tatami-floored hall. The seasonal landscapes, including cherry blossoms, lotus flowers, and snowscapes, provide captivating scenes. Numerous accommodations, restaurants, and specialty shops nearby allow visitors to leisurely experience Niigata's history and culture.

• Hoppo Bunka Museum Information
• Address: 2-15-25 Sazae, Konan Ward, Niigata City, Niigata Prefecture
• Access: Take the Bandai City Center Bus, Sazae Line towards Akiha Ward Office, alight at Sazae Kaiyokan-mae, 2 minutes' walk
• Admission: Adults (high school and above) - 800 yen; Elementary and middle school students - 400 yen
• Phone: 025-385-2001
• Official Website: http://hoppou-bunka.com/

Hakkaisan Ropeway: A Skywalk with Seasons of Mount Hakkai

Mount Hakkai, the highest peak in Niigata at 1,778 meters, has been revered as a sacred mountain since ancient times. Alongside Mount Goryu and Nakano-dake, it forms the trio of Echigo Mountains and ranks among Japan's 200 Famous Mountains.

For those aspiring to climb Mount Hakkai, the Hakkaisan Ropeway（八海山ロープウェー） is an essential means of transport. Stretching 2,217 meters, the ropeway swiftly ascends from the base of the mountain in the Minamiuonuma Basin—famous for the Yukiakari rice—reaching the steep rocky terrain of Mount Hakkai's Shidare Course (altitude 1,147 meters, elevation gain 771 meters) in approximately 5 minutes (10 meters per second). It serves as a convenient mode of transportation for both climbing and sightseeing.

From the observation deck, behold not only the sacred Mount Hakkai but also panoramic views of the Echigo Plain (towards Nagaoka), the Echigo Mountain Range, the Sea of Japan, Sado Island, and the distant Northern Alps.

In spring, witness the blooming wisteria flowers; in autumn, experience the changing colors of the leaves; and in winter, marvel at the silver-white world of Mount Hakkai. Enjoy the beauty of Mount Hakkai's changing seasons from various vantage points in the sky, including the observation deck.

• Hakkaisan Ropeway（八海山ロープウェー）Travel Information息
• Address: 1610 Yamaguchi, Minamiuonuma City, Niigata Prefecture
• Access: Take JR / Hokuhoku Line to "Muikamachi Station," transfer to a shuttle bus for about 30 minutes, alighting at "Hakkaisan Ski Resort"
• Cost:
  • Round trip for adults: Late April to late September - 2,200 yen; Early October to early November - 2,400 yen
  • Round trip for children: Late April to late September - 1,100 yen; Early October to early November - 1,200 yen
• Phone: 025-775-3311
• Official Website: https://www.princehotels.co.jp/ski/hakkaisan/

Tsukioka Onsen: A Soothing Haven for Radiant Beauty

Established in 1915, Tsukioka Onsen stands as one of Niigata's premier hot spring villages in Shinshu-Niigata City. Originally discovered accidentally during oil exploration, the onsen village exudes the fragrance of sulfur, with hotels, restaurants, and souvenir shops lining its streets. Renowned for its crystal-clear, emerald-green hot springs, Tsukioka Onsen ranks 22nd in the 2022 "Top 100 Ranking of Japanese Hot Springs (36th Iteration)." Referred to as the "Hot Spring That Makes You More Beautiful," it boasts one of the highest sulfur concentrations in Japanese hot springs, known for its skin-beautifying properties.

Situated amidst picturesque landscapes, surrounded by the Gohyakugawa Mountain Range, Tsukioka Onsen offers an atmospheric setting.

Visitors can savor local delicacies in the numerous hotels, restaurants, and souvenir shops, creating a memorable experience. Additionally, attractions such as foot baths and the illuminated "Tsukihi no Niwa" garden at night make it a popular hot spring destination for leisurely strolls in the city.

Located approximately 40 minutes from Niigata City, Tsukioka Onsen provides convenient access, making it an ideal accommodation option for exploring Niigata.

• Tsukioka Onsen（月岡温泉）Information
• Address: Tsukioka Onsen, Shinshu-Niigata City, Niigata Prefecture
• Access: Take a shuttle bus from JR "Toyosaka Station" for about 20 minutes, alighting at "Tsukioka Onsen"
• Phone: 0254-32-3151 (Tsukioka Onsen Tourist Association)
• Official Website: http://www.tsukiokaonsen.gr.jp/

Naena Falls: A Majestic Natural Spectacle

Naena Falls（苗名滝）, situated at the border of Niigata and Nagano prefectures, cascades down a columnar rock face formed from cooled lava, earning the moniker "Earthquake Falls" for its roaring sound and power.

A highlight during seasons like fresh greenery and autumn leaves, Naena Falls is particularly popular when the ice and snow melt in spring. The columnar joints formed during the cooling of magma create a dynamic appearance and sound as water plummets from a height of 55 meters. Departing from the parking lot, crossing the first suspension bridge, traversing Sekigawa, visitors enter Nagano Prefecture.

Maintaining walking paths, it takes about 15 minutes to walk from the parking lot to the observation deck. At the entrance of the walking path, there is a restaurant known for flowing water somen noodles and a café renowned for soft-serve ice cream, offering a leisurely experience.

• Naena Falls（苗名滝）Information
• Address: Suginozawa, Myoko City, Niigata Prefecture
• Access: Take a bus from Echigo Tokimeki Railway or Shinano Railway "Myoko Kogen Station" for about 15 minutes, alighting at "Imorizawa Iriguchi," then take the community bus for about 10 minutes, alighting at "Naena Falls," followed by a 15-minute walk
• Phone: 0255-86-3911 (Myoko Kogen Tourist Information Center)
• Official Website: https://niigata-kankou.or.jp/spot/8528

Kawara no Yu: Secluded Open-Air Hot Springs Known Only to the Connoisseurs

Located approximately 15 minutes by car from the Tsubame Onsen Street on the slopes of Mount Myoko, Kawara no Yu is a free mixed-gender outdoor bath with a continuous flow of hot spring water, creating a rural ambiance.

Nestled beside a stream at an altitude of 1,150 meters, Kawara no Yu, along with the nearby outdoor bath "Kogane no Yu," is a hidden hot spring known to connoisseurs. Its distinguishing feature is the milky-white water, often referred to as the "triple beauty hot spring" due to its sulfur spring, carbonic acid hydrogen spring, and sulfate spring qualities.

Tsubame Onsen, serving as the starting point for climbing Mount Fuji, is also popular. Exploring the mountain corridor from the hot spring town is recommended, with comfortable and practical attire advised.

• Kawara no Yu（河原の湯）Information
• Address: Sekiyama, Myoko City, Niigata Prefecture
• Access: Take a bus from Echigo Tokimeki Railway or Shinano Railway "Sekiyama Station" for about 23 minutes, alighting at "Tsubame Onsen," then walk for about 15 minutes
• Operating Hours: Early June to early November, closed in winter
• Phone: 0255-86-3911 (Myoko Kogen Tourist Information Center)
• Official Website: https://niigata-kankou.or.jp/spot/11635

Kiyotsu Gorge: Magnificent Scenery Glowing in the Tunnel

Kiyotsu Gorge, one of Japan's three major gorges alongside Kurobe Gorge and Ouchi-juku Valley, is renowned for its stunning views created by columnar rock cliffs and the flow of the Kiyotsu River, designated as a national scenic spot and natural monument.

The Kiyotsu Gorge Tunnel is a 750-meter-long walking tunnel with three observation points, allowing for the safe appreciation of the gorge's beauty. At the end of the tunnel, the Panorama Station, with a floor covered in streamwater and walls adorned with stainless steel plates, creates an art space reflecting the outside scenery. In recent years, its marvelous scenery has gained attention as an SNS spot. The fall foliage season, in particular, attracts crowds, but the new greenery in spring and the ink-painting-like snow scenes are also breathtaking.

The majestic columnar joint rock faces and the dynamic landscape of the Kiyotsu River leave a lasting impression on visitors. Additionally, the Chinese architectural group Ma Yansong/MAD Architects transformed it into an artwork in 2018. Apart from significant renovations inside the tunnel, entrance facilities were also installed, creating an architectural space and artistic atmosphere using the natural "Five Elements" (wood, earth, metal, fire, water) to reimagine this historic tunnel.

At the entrance of the Kiyotsu Gorge Tunnel, there are foot baths, merchandise sales, a café (closed in winter). Explore the unique charm of this location through the short film provided!

• Kiyotsu Gorge Information
• Address: Ozo, Tokamachi City, Niigata Prefecture
• Access: Take a bus from JR "Echigo Yuzawa Station" for about 30 minutes, alighting at "Kiyotsukyo Iriguchi," then walk for about 30 minutes
• Operating Hours:
  • Kiyotsukyo Iriguchi 9:00 AM to 4:00 PM
  • Tunnel Reception Hours 8:30 AM to 4:30 PM (Closed at 5:00 PM)
• Price: Kiyotsu Gorge Tunnel - Adults (high school students and above) ¥800, Children (elementary and junior high school students) ¥400
• Phone: 025-763-4800 (Kiyotsu Gorge Valley Tunnel Management Office)
• Official Website: https://nakasato-kiyotsu.com/

Mebirin Forest: Graceful Longevity of the Japanese Beech Trees

n the hilly terrain of Matsunoyama, Joetsu City, there exists a grove of Japanese beech trees with an age of approximately 100 years. After the forest was completely cleared in the late Taisho era, the Japanese beech trees sprouted, forming a beautifully slender silhouette. Unbeknownst to many, it came to be known as the "Beautiful Forest."

Not only is it a forest bathing haven, providing relief from the stresses of daily life, but it is also a popular spot for photographers to capture the changing landscapes throughout the seasons.

In spring, the newly sprouted leaves, breaking through the snow, signal the arrival of spring. During summer, you can feel the refreshing breeze among the Japanese beech trees, surrounded by vibrant greenery. In autumn, the leaves turn shades of yellow and orange, enchanting visitors with a picturesque beauty. Winter transforms the forest into a "silver world," where sunlight causes the snow to shimmer.

Beyond the beauty on sunny days, the enchanting scenery created by mist on rainy days will leave a lasting impression. Why not take a stroll and relax in the expressive Mebirin Forest?

• Mebirin Forest Information
• Address: 1712-2 Matsuguchi, Matsunoyama, Tokamachi City, Niigata Prefecture
• Access: Take a bus for about 15 minutes from Hokuhoku Line's "Matsudai Station," alight at "Sakai Matsu," and walk for about 20 minutes
• Phone: 025-597-3442 (Matsudai-Matsunoyama Onsen Tourist Information Center)
• Official Website: https://www.tokamachishikankou.jp/

Historic Site Sado Gold Mine: Mysterious Modern Ruins on the Island of Gold

The Historic Site Sado Gold Mine (Kitasawa Fuyu Senkojo Ato) is the remains of a large ore processing facility in the Kitasawa area of Aikawa, Sado City, known for its gold mines. This site was the first in Japan during the Showa era to utilize the flotation method for extracting gold and silver.

The remaining structures on the steep terraced slopes, including the building foundations, brick-built power plant, and a circular building with a diameter of 50 meters known as the concentrator, create an appearance resembling a massive structure, making it a popular topic of discussion.

It often serves as a backdrop in animated films. Depending on the season, events such as illuminations and projection mappings are held, attracting visitors with its mysterious appearance during both day and night.

• Historic Site Sado Gold Mine（北沢浮遊選鉱場跡）Information
• Address: 3-2 Aikawa Kitasawa, Sado City, Niigata Prefecture
• Phone: 0259-27-5000 (Sado Tourism Exchange Association)
• Official Website: https://www.visitsado.com/spot/detail0091/

Ryuodo Cave: Enigmatic Views of the Sparkling Blue Sea

Located in the southern part of Sado, the Kotohira Coast features 11 caves formed by the erosion of the waves, with Ryuodo Cave being the largest lava cave formed by underwater lava erosion on the island. When sunlight shines on the clear seawater, it resembles Italy's Blue Grotto, earning it the nickname "Sado's Blue Grotto."

Ryuodo Cave has two entrances: one from the coast, allowing walking access, and another from the sea, accessible by motorboat or sea kayaking (currently, access from the coast is prohibited due to falling rocks). Around 11:00 AM, the light penetrating deep into the cave creates a particularly beautiful scene. So, if you want to appreciate the beautiful sea-blue color, aim for this time.

• Ryuodo Cave（竜王洞）Information
• Address: Kotoura, Sado City, Niigata Prefecture
• Phone: 0259-86-3200 (Minami Sado Tourism Exchange Association)
• Official Website: https://www.visitsado.com/spot/detail0842/

Hegisoba: Niigata's Distinctive Buckwheat Noodles

Buckwheat noodles, known as "soba," are considered a secret to longevity in Japanese cuisine. Throughout Japan, various regions boast different flavors of soba, and Hegisoba (へぎそば) from the Uonuma region in Niigata Prefecture has a unique name. Originating from the local dialect, "hegi" means to peel, derived from the act of thinly peeling and folding the wooden plates used for serving.

Hegisoba stands out for its smooth and chewy texture, attributed to the addition of funori (布海藻), a type of seaweed. The noodles have a light green hue due to the presence of seaweed. A distinctive feature is that the soba noodles tend to stick together easily, making it common to serve them rolled into bite-sized portions.

Founded in 1926, Kojimaya Sohonten is the flagship store of Hegisoba, with eight directly operated branches in Niigata. The shop adheres to three principles for soba: milling, kneading, and cooking on-site. The broth uses natural bonito flakes and kelp, without any chemical additives. They use 100% wheat-free buckwheat flour, resulting in resilient and high-moisture noodles. When in the Uonuma region, don't miss the chance to visit this renowned soba establishment.

• Kojimaya Sohonten（小嶋屋総本店）Information
• Address: 758-1 Nakayashiki, Tokamachi City, Niigata
• Business Hours: 11:00 - 21:00 (Last order at 20:30)
• Closed: Irregular holidays
• Phone: 025-768-3311

Niigata's Unique Italian: "Itarian"

When in Niigata and someone suggests, "Let's go eat Italian, Itarian," it's not referring to the traditional Italian cuisine but a local specialty. This dish, often called the soul food of the people of Niigata, is a familiar comfort from childhood. In essence, Niigata's "Itarian" specifically means "Italian-style yakisoba" or stir-fried noodles.

In 1960, the owner of Mikazuki（みかづき), a dessert café in Niigata City, conceived the idea while considering a light food menu. This unique dish has a history of over 60 years. Typically, the noodles are paired with tomato sauce, but recently, curry Italian-style and white sauce Italian-style have gained popularity, leaving many captivated by the indescribable sensation.

Mikazuki（みかづき）currently has 20 stores in Niigata Prefecture, with most located in food court-type establishments within shopping centers. Many people, after school or shopping, flock to Mikazuki for a satisfying and reasonably priced meal.

• Mikazuki Bandai Shop Information
• Address: Bus Center Building 2F, 1-6-1 Bandai, Chuo-ku, Niigata City, Niigata
• Access: 10-minute walk from JR Niigata Station, Bandai Exit
• Business Hours: 10:00 - 20:00
• Phone: 025-241-5928

Tonkatsu Don タレかつ丼

Depending on the establishment, the thickness of the breaded pork cutlet and the seasoning of the sauce may vary, resulting in differences in taste. However, the key features typically include generous portions and excellent fillings. "Tonkatsu Taro" is said to be the birthplace of Niigata-style tonkatsu donburi. This restaurant, which started as a snack stall, originally added thinly sliced pork cutlet to a soy sauce-based sauce, making it more accessible for consumption.

• Tonkatsu Taro (とんかつ太郎) Information
• Address: 973 Furumachi-dori 6 Bancho, Chuo-ku, Niigata City, Niigata
• Access: 22-minute walk from JR Echigo Line Hakusan Station North Exit
• Business Hours: 11:30 - 14:30 / 17:00 - 20:00
• Closed: Thursdays and the 3rd Wednesday night of the month
• Phone: 025-222-0097
• Website: とんかつ太郎