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Top Niigata Prefecture Day Trips

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Niigata Private Custom Tour with Local Guide

This full-day tour explores the scenery and craft traditions around Niigata with an English-speaking guide, available by public transport or private vehicle, meeting at Niigata Station. Begin at Yahiko Shrine, one of Niigata's most sacred sites, where a cedar forest leads to a main shrine with over 2,400 years of history, then continue nearby to the 634-meter summit of Mt. Yahiko for panoramic views over the Sea of Japan, Sado Island, and rice fields. With a private vehicle, the day continues to Sakana no Ichibadori fish market in Nagaoka for fresh seafood, and on to Tsubame-Sanjo, renowned for metal craftsmanship, where the Regional Industries Center offers Japanese knives, cutlery, and kitchenware. Given the greater distances, the public-transport version instead keeps to a closer loop around Yahiko Shrine and Mt. Yahiko. Lunch can be arranged along the way at your own expense, and the itinerary can be adjusted within the tour's allotted time to suit your interests.

Niigata Private Custom Tour with Local Guide

6 hoursFree Cancellation

Price varies by group size

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Myoko and Madarao Day Tour Snow Monkeys, Zenkoji and Sake

Experience the best of Nagano with this immersive tour starting from Myoko Kogen and Madarao Kogen. Begin your journey with a visit to the renowned Jigokudani Snow Monkey Park, home to Japan’s famous hot spring-bathing monkeys. Afterward, savor a delicious winter lunch before heading to the historic Zenkoji Temple, one of the country's most significant Buddhist sites. Led by a knowledgeable English-speaking guide, the tour concludes with a sake tasting, offering a perfect blend of culture, nature, and local flavors.

Myoko and Madarao Day Tour Snow Monkeys, Zenkoji and Sake

8 to 10 hoursFree Cancellation

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Winter Kiyotsu Gorge & Satoyama Dining Tour

A Day of Art, Food, and Breathtaking Views in Snowy Echigo-Tsumari Discover a side of Echigo-Tsumari, in Tokamachi, that only winter reveals, on this one-day tour through a snow-covered landscape. Our first stop is Kiyotsukyo Gorge, one of Japan's three great gorges. Beyond the tunnel lies a "light art" installation, where in the snowy season the water and rock walls shimmer white, opening up a dreamlike world in the quiet. For lunch, enjoy a leisurely meal at Matsudai Satoyama Shokudo, savoring warm, local dishes made with regional ingredients. In the afternoon, visit the Echigo-Tsumari Contemporary Art Museum MonET, a museum where the building itself is a work of art. Art encountered amid the snow stays with you more deeply than usual. Come and enjoy a quiet, luxurious winter day in Echigo. I'll explain using a translation app. Cover photo: “Tunnel of Light” by Ma Jansson (MAD Architects), photo by Osamu Nakamura

Winter Kiyotsu Gorge & Satoyama Dining Tour

7 hoursFree Cancellation

Price varies by group size

Member Pricing

Tsubame Sanjo Factory Tour by Car with Licensed Guide

Blacksmith was brought to Tsubame and Sanjo area in Niigata prefecture in the early 17th century, started producing Japanese nails called Wakugi. This area now became an artisan metalsmiths town. You can visit some of those factories, artisans welcome you. In this tour, you will visit Knife factory, Tadafusa and coppenwear factory, Gyokusendo. Both has a long history and you can see their work very closely. You can also visit more factory, Museum or shopping spots where you can find the Tsubame Sanjo quality products.

Tsubame Sanjo Factory Tour by Car with Licensed Guide

6 hoursFree Cancellation

Member Pricing

Art in the Wild Echigo Tsumari Tour

Comfortable Sightseeing by Car! Special Tour of Tokamachi and the Earth Art Festival with a Dedicated Guide Efficiently explore the artworks scattered throughout the vast satoyama landscape while enjoying the feel of a leisurely drive! Experience the highlights in luxury, without the stress of getting around. Comfortable Travel and Sightseeing: Since you’re traveling by car, you can enjoy the artworks without worrying about the weather or getting tired! A Deeper Connection to the Art: The fun of viewing the art doubles with behind-the-scenes stories and commentary from your dedicated guide. Discover Hidden Gems: Follow a route crafted by locals who know the area inside and out, taking you to hidden gems and Instagram-worthy spots! This isn’t just about viewing art—it’s a special journey that captures the joy of exploring. Let’s cruise through Tokamachi’s art together!

Art in the Wild Echigo Tsumari Tour

8 hours 30 minutesFree Cancellation

Price varies by group size

Member Pricing

Enjoy Spring Ephemerals with a Guide

(Available for 1 person! Transportation included) Minamiuonuma City is a renowned flower-viewing destination where clusters of the nationally famous “spring ephemeral flower, the Erythronium japonicum,” can be seen everywhere. A local guide will drive you to the best viewing spots during the season, where you’ll enjoy a roughly 2-hour stroll through the rural hills. No special hiking gear is required. Casual attire suitable for a walk in the park is sufficient. For lunch, we’ll visit a restaurant serving local cuisine. Afterward, we’ll stop at a popular local Japanese confectionery shop for some shopping. To conclude the tour, we’ll visit the “Yasuo Toyama Wildflower Gallery,” a gallery featuring watercolor paintings of wildflowers from all four seasons. - Please note: On Wednesdays, Ueda no Sato and the Wildflower Gallery are closed, so we will instead take you for a lunch of Hegi soba and a visit to the Minamiuonuma Roadside Station.

Enjoy Spring Ephemerals with a Guide

6 hoursFree Cancellation

Price varies by group size

Member Pricing

Tsubame Sanjo Fruit Knife Making Tour with Licensed Guide

This 6-hour walking tour includes a Knife factory tour and fruit knife crafting at Tojiro, one of Japan's best knife makers.You'll polish the blade and the craftsman will sharpen the edge. Then you assemble the handle.You can get an up close and personal view of the how the craftsmen work. Take the completed knife home. There's also a tax-free showroom! A licensed guide will accompany you and help with translation. Before visiting Tojiro, you will go on a walking tour, please customize your tour with your guide by selecting 1-2 spots from‘what to expect’ or ‘itinerary’ list. . ※The Tojiro experience starts at 1:00 PM. Please be at the reception by 12:50. ※Upon arrival at Tojiro knife making, there will be an explanation regarding the handling of dangerous objects (knives), machinery, and an insurance application. Insurance fees at Tojiro are included in the experience price. ※Knife making (11+ only, adult price); children and infants can join the factory tour.

Tsubame Sanjo Fruit Knife Making Tour with Licensed Guide

6 hoursFree Cancellation

Price varies by group size

Member Pricing

Sado Island Day Trip Gold Mine and Taraibune Tub boat

Discover the unique charm of Sado Island on this unforgettable day trip from Niigata. Travel across the Sea of Japan aboard the high-speed Sado Kisen Jetfoil, then explore some of the island's most iconic attractions by private vehicle. Experience the traditional taraibune tub boat, a centuries-old fishing boat found only on Sado, and immerse yourself in the island's rich history at the UNESCO World Heritage-listed Sado Gold Mine. You'll also visit the atmospheric Kitazawa Flotation Plant Ruins, where towering industrial remains and lush greenery create one of Sado's most photogenic landscapes. Combining breathtaking scenery, fascinating history, unique cultural experiences, and comfortable transportation, this tour is the perfect way to discover the best of Sado Island in a single day. This tour is great for any types of travelers , such as adventure seekers, families with children, etc.

Sado Island Day Trip Gold Mine and Taraibune Tub boat

11 hoursFree Cancellation

Price varies by group size

Member Pricing

Kiyotsu Gorge and Rice Terraces

Discover breathtaking landscapes and rich cultural heritage on this scenic journey through Tokamachi. Explore the stunning Kiyotsu Gorge, known for its impressive rock formations and vibrant colors. Wander through ancient rice terraces that showcase the traditional farming methods of the local communities. This tour offers a unique glimpse into local stories and traditions, making it perfect for culture enthusiasts and nature lovers alike. Enjoy an immersive experience with expert guides who share their insider knowledge of the region. The guide will use simple English and a simultaneous translation device. We will provide the equipment. - Explore Kiyotsu Gorge and its magnificent rock formations - Visit ancient rice terraces and learn about traditional farming - Gain insights from expert local guides on Tokamachi's culture - Ideal for travelers interested in nature and local traditions

Kiyotsu Gorge and Rice Terraces

7 hours 30 minutesFree Cancellation

Price varies by group size

Member Pricing

Discover Tsubame-Sanjo Craftsmanship

Discover the craftsmanship and culture of Niigata on a private tour from Niigata Port. Explore Tsubame-Sanjo, one of Japan’s leading regions for metalworking, and discover its renowned craftsmanship and locally made products. Visit the Tsubame-Sanjo Local Products Center to browse a variety of high-quality products, then explore the Tsubame City Industrial Materials Museum to learn about the history, techniques, and traditions behind the region’s manufacturing industry. This tour offers a unique opportunity to experience Japanese craftsmanship and local industrial heritage. This tour can be customized according to your preferences and requests. It is suitable for a wide range of travelers, including families, couples, solo travelers, and those interested in Japanese craftsmanship and culture.

Discover Tsubame-Sanjo Craftsmanship

5 hoursFree Cancellation

Price varies by group size

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