Recommended Winter Travel Destinations in Niigata boast Gala Yuzawa Ski Resort, directly connected to the Shinkansen station for convenient transportation, Matsunoyama Onsen offering picturesque snow country landscapes and hot springs, and Tsunan Snow Festival.
During the festive season, witness the spectacular ascent of lanterns into the sky. Below, we present 16 Niigata tourist attractions that will captivate and linger in your memory.
1. GALA Yuzawa Snow Resort (ガーラ湯沢スキー場)
Accessed in just about an hour and a half from Tokyo Station via the Shinkansen, GALA Yuzawa Snow Resort stands seamlessly connected to the Shinkansen station, eliminating the need to exit the station before entering the skiing domain—an ideal setting for winter sojourns in Niigata.
Featuring a total of 16 snow trails, with the longest descent spanning 2500 meters, the trails cater to a diverse range of skiing preferences. From gentle terrains suitable for novices to exhilarating slopes designed for advanced skiers, the variety is extensive. Moreover, the resort hosts a "Snow Paradise," allowing non-skier children to indulge without charge—a commendable suggestion for families wintering in Niigata.
- GALA Yuzawa Snow Resort (ガーラ湯沢スキー場)
- Address: 1039-2 Gataguchi, Yuzawa-machi, Minamiuonuma-gun, Niigata, 949-6101, Japan
- Website: https://gala.co.jp/winter/
2. Hyokosuikin Park (瓢湖水きん公園)
Renowned across Japan as a migratory destination for swans, Hyoko Lake has earned the designation of a national natural monument. In winter, about 5000 swans journey from Siberia to grace its waters.
The development of Hyoko Mizukin Park aims to preserve this bountiful natural environment, offering close encounters with swans and ducks. Witness the spectacular arrival of numerous waterfowl, an awe-inspiring spectacle! Additionally, observe swan parents feeding their young.
- Hyokosuikin Park (瓢湖水きん公園)
- Address: 1039-2 Gataguchi, Yuzawa-machi, Minamiuonuma-gun, Niigata, 949-6101, Japan
- Website: https://gala.co.jp/winter/
3. Imori-ike Pond (いもり池)
Imori-ike Pond, a pond within the confines of Ikinoyu Onsen, boasts a circumference of about 500 meters, offering year-round scenic beauty on the Myoko Highlands. Legend has it that the pond earned its name due to the abundance of fireflies inhabiting its vicinity.
A picturesque walk along the pond's perimeter, encompassing a 15-minute stroll, allows for easy enjoyment, particularly when snowfall is modest. The majestic silhouette of Mount Myoko, mirrored in the waters, presents a captivating vista, especially during snowfall, unveiling a fantastical silver world.
- Imori-ike Pond (いもり池)
- Address: Imori Ike, Ikenoyu Onsen, Myoko-shi, Niigata, Japan
- Website: https://gala.co.jp/winter/
4. Matsunoyama Onsen (松之山温泉)
Situated in Joetsu City, one of the areas in Niigata Prefecture with the highest snowfall, Matsunoyama Onsen experiences a winter deluge exceeding 4 meters, rendering the entire hot spring enclave blanketed in snow.
Stroll through the onsen town, revered as an ecological village for its snow-covered vistas. Immerse yourself in the snow-viewing hot springs, savor local delicacies, and relish the essence of winter in Niigata. Every January 15th, Echigo hosts the peculiar festivals of "Shinro Matsuri" and "Sumiutsushi Matsuri"—a unique experience worth considering.
- Matsunoyama Onsen (松之山温泉)
- Address: Matsunoyama, Yuyama, Tokamachi City, Niigata, 942-1411, Japan
- Website: https://www.tokamachishikankou.jp/spot/motsunoyamaonsengou/
5. Echigo Sake Museum Ponshukan（ぽんしゅ館 越後湯沢驛店）
"Echigo Sake Museum Ponshukan" serves as a veritable Echigo sake museum, where one can derive various pleasures—from tasting local sake to enjoying hot spring baths. The "Sake Tasting Corner" curates a selection of local sakes from most breweries in Niigata Prefecture, available for a tasting fee.
"Eki no Shuzo" boasts a perennial inventory of over 250 varieties from Niigata's major brands, including limited-edition items exclusive to this establishment—highly recommended for aficionados of fine spirits.
Additionally, the store features establishments where you can savor renowned bomb rice balls and partake in a sake-infused hot spring bath. For winter sightseeing, it is particularly recommended to soak in the hot springs, leisurely comparing and tasting Japanese sake.
- Echigo Sake Museum Ponshukan（ぽんしゅ館 越後湯沢驛店）
- Address: 2427-1 Yuzawa, Yuzawa-machi, Minamiuonuma-gun, Niigata, 949-6101, Japan
- Website: https://www.ponshukan.com/
6. Minato Marche Pier Bandai（にぎわい市場ピアBandai）
Nestled on Bandaijima in Niigata City, this tourist market overlooks Niigata Port, showcasing a diverse array of Niigata Prefecture's specialties, ranging from rice and sake to fish, meat, vegetables, fruits, and flowers. Regarded as one of the largest seasonal food markets along the Japan Sea coast, it promises an abundance of offerings.
Numerous restaurants allow for a taste of Niigata's culinary delights, with a standout recommendation being "Kaiten Sushi Benkei." Renowned for its sushi crafted from exceptionally fresh ingredients caught on the Sado Coast that very day, their signature sushi is made using 100% Sado Overlight rice. If visiting in winter, do indulge in the seasonal Sado yellowtail!
- Minato Marche Pier Bandai（にぎわい市場ピアBandai）
- Address: 2 Bandaijima, Chuo-ku, Niigata, 950-0078, Japan
- Website: https://www.bandai-nigiwai.jp/
7. Echigo Hillside Park（国営越後丘陵公園）
Echigo Hillside National Park stands as a widely acclaimed destination, captivating both children and adults alike. Embrace seasonal gardens, immerse yourself in rural forest living, and partake in agricultural experiences. Running from April to November, known as the "Green Season," and December to March, known as the "White Season," each period offers distinct avenues of enjoyment.
Annually, from early November to December 25th, the park hosts a Christmas lights event. Outdoors, the symbolic giant beech tree is illuminated, while indoors, a magical Christmas tree sparkles. Moreover, during the snow-rich months of January to February, "Echigo Snow World" opens, featuring a sledging area and various snow activities.
- Echigo Hillside Park（国営越後丘陵公園）
- Address: 1950-1 Mitsumata, Miyamoto Higashikata, Nagaoka City, Niigata, 940-2202, Japan
- Website: https://echigo-park.jp/
8. Tsunan Snow Festival（つなん雪まつり）
While lantern festivals are renowned in Thailand and Taiwan, the Tsunan Snow Festival, or "Chochin Festival," takes place in Tsunan Town—one of the areas in Japan with the heaviest snowfall.
Originating in 2012 as a prayer for the recovery from the Great East Japan Earthquake, the Tsunan Snow Festival ("つなん雪まつり") occurs around March 11th each year. Approximately 2,000 lanterns ascend into the night sky, creating a spectacular display!
Tickets are available for those who wish to participate in launching the lanterns. However, if you simply wish to observe the lanterns being released, no ticket is required. Additionally, enjoy stage performances and stalls during the festival.
- Tsunan Snow Festival（つなん雪まつり）
- Address: 12300 Akinari, Tsunan-cho, Nakauonuma-gun, Niigata, 949-8201, Japan
- Website: https://snowfes.info/
9. Niigata NEXT21 Observation Lounge (NEXT21 展望ラウンジ)
The NEXT21 Observation Lounge is a comprehensive facility housing the Niigata City Central Government Office and dining establishments. Standing at 125 meters, it is acclaimed as the first skyscraper on the Japan Sea side.
From the top-floor observation deck at 101 meters, revel in a panoramic view of Niigata City, especially breathtaking when the winter air is crisp. Entry is free until 23:30, making it an ideal spot to appreciate the night scenery.
- Niigata NEXT21 Observation Lounge (NEXT21 展望ラウンジ)
- Address: 866 Rokubancho, Nishi-Hori-dori, Chuo-ku, Niigata, 950-0086, Japan
- Website: https://www.next21-niigata.jp/
10. Bijin Bayashi Forest（美人林）
Bijin Bayashi, a beech forest located north of Matsunoyama in Joetsu City, is renowned for its straight and expansive beech trees, earning it the moniker "Beautiful Forest."
Throughout different seasons, Bijin Bayashi presents various breathtaking scenes. In winter, the beech trees are blanketed in pristine white snow, creating a stunning landscape. This makes it a popular destination for those seeking a serene winter retreat.
While winter walks are possible, the deep snow suggests wearing snowshoes for a more comfortable experience. Snowshoes can be rented at the nearby Mori no Gakko Kyororo reception, providing an opportunity to explore this enchanting forest.
- Bijin Bayashi Forest（美人林）
- Address: 1712-2 Matsuguchi, Matsunoyama, Joetsu City, Niigata, 949-1523, Japan
- Website: https://niigata-kankou.or.jp/spot/10084
11. Shirone Grape Garden (白根グレープガーデン)
Shirane Grape Garden is an all-season sightseeing farm where you can enjoy fruit picking year-round. Depending on the season, a variety of fruits can be harvested. In winter, pick the rare citrus fruits of Niigata and enjoy strawberry picking in a large strawberry field with 55,000 strawberry plants.
The grape garden also houses an ice cream shop where you can savor ice cream made with a plethora of seasonal fruits.
- Shirone Grape Garden (白根グレープガーデン)
- Address: 573 Wajinoki Shinden, Minami-ku, Niigata City, Niigata, 950-1102, Japan
- Website: http://www.kudamonogari.com/
12. Teradomari Fish Market Street (寺泊魚の市場通り)
Teradomari Fish Market Street is a bustling fish market in Niigata Prefecture, affectionately known as "Uo Ami Yokocho," meaning "Fish Ami Alley." Along the street, numerous fish shops offer dining options on their second floors.
In winter, recommended seasonal delicacies include Red Snow Crab, True Oysters, and Sweet Shrimp! Some shops prepare fresh fish for on-site consumption, and there are stalls offering seafood skewers, grilled seafood, crab soup, and other delectable treats. Explore the market, discover enticing cuisine, and indulge in a culinary adventure.
- Teradomari Fish Market Street (寺泊魚の市場通り)
- Address: Teradomari Shimoara-machi, Nagaoka City, Niigata, 940-1161, Japan
- Website: https://niigata-kankou.or.jp/spot/5823
13. Ojiya Balloon Uprising (おぢや風船一揆)
Ojiya Balloon Uprising is an annual winter event in Ojiya City, featuring the "Japan Sea Cup Cross-Country Balloon Championship" held on the snowy fields.
Taking place in late February each year, it offers the opportunity to experience hot air ballooning, and the popular Niigata gourmet stalls at the "Delicious Food Square." In the evening, fireworks are set off, creating a captivating display of hot air balloons and fireworks.
- Ojiya Balloon Uprising (おぢや風船一揆)
- Address: Ojiya Balloon Uprising, Hirasawa Shinden, Ojiya City, Niigata, Japan
- Website: https://www.city.ojiya.niigata.jp/site/kanko/ojiya-fusenikki.html
14. Bandaijima Art Museum (新潟県立万代島美術館)
Niigata Prefectural Bandaijima Art Museum is located within the Toki Messe Exhibition Hall. It serves as a branch of the Niigata Prefectural Museum of Modern Art in Nagaoka City, with both museums sharing a collection of over 6,000 items.
The distinguishing feature of the Bandaijima Art Museum is its emphasis on contemporary art collections, including works by artists associated with Niigata Prefecture. While there are no permanent exhibits, the museum hosts special exhibitions and collection displays throughout the year. It's a perfect place to spend some time appreciating art during the chilly winter days.
- Bandaijima Art Museum (新潟県立万代島美術館)
- Address: 5-1 Bandaijima, Chuo-ku, Niigata City, Niigata, Japan
- Website: https://banbi.pref.niigata.lg.jp/
15. Cave D'Occi Winery（カーブドッチワイナリー）
Cave D'Occi Winery is situated in a vast vineyard spanning approximately 80,000 square meters. The popular winery tour includes visits to the vineyard, winemaking facility, barrel aging room, wine cellar, and concludes with a tasting session.
Additionally, the winery features a restaurant offering authentic French cuisine, a bakery, a coffee shop, and facilities where you can enjoy natural hot springs. It's a perfect destination for a relaxed and fulfilling day, even on snowy days.
- Cave D'Occi Winery（カーブドッチワイナリー）
- Address: 1661 Katadahama, Nishikan-ku, Niigata City, Niigata, Japan
- Website: http://www.docci.com/
16. Ishida (石田屋)
Ishida is conveniently located near Murakami Station. Initially established as an inn, it transitioned into a restaurant operating both during the day and evening since 2023.
The restaurant's highlight is its menu featuring Murakami's seasonal delicacy, the salted salmon. Highly recommended is the "Salmon Hot Pot Bowl," adorned with freshly grilled slices of savory salted salmon.
Another notable choice is the "Miomote" set, comprising salted salmon, seaweed-wrapped salmon, sake-infused salmon, and a mini atom rice bowl. Don't miss the opportunity to savor the signature salted salmon when you visit.
- Ishida (石田屋)
- Address: 10-24 Tabata-cho, Murakami City, Niigata, Japan
- Website: https://ishidaya-murakami.jp/
