All Niigata Prefecture Tours & Excursions in 2026

Discover the ancient history of Japanese sake (or rice wine) which dates back to at least 700 AD. Originally only consumed at religious ceremonies, sake was believed to connect individuals to the divine realm. For nearly a millenuim, sake was produced by shrines and temples all over the country. Even now, it is one of the primary offerings to the Shinto gods. Become a part of this rich tradition by tasting the elixir of the Japanese gods in the heart of a Shinto shrine. Learn firsthand the deliciousness of Niigata sake amidst the serene ambiance where tranquility and the essence of the divine converge.

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

Spend a full day discovering Niigata, the elegant port city on the Sea of Japan, with your own government-licensed guide and a private vehicle. Set the pace and explore in depth, from sacred shrines to sake and seafood. Begin at Hakusan Shrine, dedicated to matchmaking, then tour the magnificent former Ito family mansion and gardens at the Northern Culture Museum. Wander the historic geisha district of Furumachi, visit the centuries-old Imayo Tsukasa sake brewery for a tasting, and take in panoramic views from the free Befco Bakauke observation room at Toki Messe. Learn the city's history at Minatopia and the former Niigata Customs House, browse the lively Honcho market, and admire the elegant six-arch Bandai Bridge. With a private guide and vehicle throughout, the itinerary is fully customisable, making it ideal for travellers who want to experience the culture, history and flavours of Niigata in comfort.

This tour is designed for travelers who visit Nigata City by cruise ship. We will pick you up at Nigata Port or hotels near the port. Nigata City. Niigata is a beautiful city whose northwest faces the Sea of Japan. As one of Japan's leading agricultural cities, Niigata has a beautiful landscape of rice fields, well-known for its sake and rice heritage. Thanks to its abundant nature and perfect climate, Niigata became an agricultural powerhouse and historically acquired a reputation for its plentiful, abundant food output. Let us know what you would like to experience and we will customize a six-hour tour that's best for you! Note*1: Please select your must-see spots from a list in the tour information to create your customized itinerary. Note*2: The National Government Licensed Guide Interpreter certification is issued by the Japanese government requires a good knowledge and understanding of Japanese culture and history.

Step into the heart of Niigata on this private, fully guided day tour led by a government-licensed guide, with your own private vehicle and driver. Niigata grew rich as one of Japan's first international ports and as the gateway to the country's finest rice and sake, and this tour brings that story to life. Begin at Hakusan Shrine, the city's spiritual heart, then explore the grand Northern Culture Museum, former estate of Niigata's wealthiest landowning family. Wander the lively Pia Bandai market and the historic geisha quarter of Furumachi, and step inside the Imayo Tsukasa sake brewery to taste crisp local brews born of pure water and premium rice. Take in sweeping views from the Befco Bakauke Observatory atop Toki Messe, admire the Meiji-era Former Niigata Customs Office on the Shinano River, and browse the Honcho market. With hotel pickup, a flexible customizable route and an expert guide, you'll discover the best of Niigata in comfort and at your own pace.

You can go cycling through the streets of this manufacturing town, and visit some local workshops which are usually closed to the public, and witness the craftsmanship up close. On this tour, you'll ride a high-performance e-Bike, slicing through the breeze as you're guided to historical workshops and local spots that are usually inaccessible, thanks to the unique insights of a local tour guide. Moreover, you will get a tiny-size machete as a gift from a craftsman. Throughout the tour, you are able to experience the dedication and craftsmanship of artisans while gaining a deeper understanding of life in the Tsubame-Sanjo area. The activity is available for both solo travelers and groups.

Step into the world of sake production like never before at Niigata Ichiryu Sake Brewery, known for its Bairi brand. This unique experience unveils the intricate bottling process, the pivotal moment that shapes how sake arrives in your glass. Witness the active bottling line, where sake is meticulously filtered, filled, sealed, and labeled. A knowledgeable guide will illuminate the importance of temperature control and hygiene, demonstrating how even minor variations can impact aroma and taste. Conclude with a guided tasting of three specially selected sake varieties, highlighting the significance of careful handling in preserving flavor and balance.

Discover the art of sake brewing at a renowned brewery through an engaging guided experience. Enjoy an informative visit in Japanese or English, where you’ll learn about the philosophy and techniques behind sake production. Explore the working spaces and connect the brewing processes to the unique flavors of several handcrafted sake varieties during a guided tasting session. For those eager to dive deeper, an expanded tasting can be requested, featuring seasonal releases and various styles. With knowledgeable staff providing accessible insights, both novices and seasoned enthusiasts will find the experience enjoyable and memorable. Guided brewery experience available in Japanese and English Sample several varieties of handcrafted sake during the tasting Option to request an expanded tasting with seasonal selections Suitable for both beginners and experienced sake lovers, with engaging stories and clear explanations throughout the experience

Make sushi with fresh seasonal fish Every morning the chef visits the market and carefully selects the best local fish for the day. In this course, you can taste Nigita's local fish (for example “Noppe”) that had been caught that very morning. Become an expert of sushi making and eating Did you know that sushi gripping method differs depending on the ingredients? You must subtly change the force of your grip and the manner of your grasp. A professional sushi chef will give an easy to understand lecture on all the secrets! You can become a sushi-grip expert!

Let your guide help you navigate all the pubs and restaurants of Furumachidori on this private pub hopping tour, so you can spend more time enjoying the experience instead of stressing about the language barrier. Your guide will help you order, make recommendations, and ensure you have a fun night. You might spot a geisha, too.

Discover the art of sake brewing at Kikusui Sake Brewery in Shibata City, Niigata Prefecture. This guided tour offers an insightful look into the sake-making process, blending tradition with modern techniques. Watch the brewing process through glass windows, guided by knowledgeable staff who reveal the craftsmanship behind every bottle. Visit the state-of-the-art research lab and engage in an exclusive tasting of Kikusui's finest, including unique experimental brews. Both beginners and sake enthusiasts will leave with a deeper appreciation of this cultural beverage, alongside a complimentary original tenugui to remember your experience. - Guided brewery tour showcasing the sake brewing process - Exclusive tasting of Kikusui’s sake, including limited editions - Visit to a cutting-edge research laboratory on sake production - Complimentary original tenugui for each participant to take home

Exclusive VIP Niigata Tours Our VIP Niigata Tours offer locally guided, exclusive experiences, taking you beyond typical tourist spots to hidden gems only locals know. Why Choose Our Tours? Local Experts Discover secret locations and experience Niigata like a local. Exclusive Hidden Spots Explore secluded nature trails, private artisan workshops, and untouristed hot springs. Authentic Culture & Cuisine Visit renowned sake breweries, dine at exclusive local restaurants, and explore Tsubame-Sanjo’s master craftsmanship. ❄️ Seasonal Highlights Enjoy hidden cherry blossoms, private fireworks views, off-the-map fall foliage, and uncrowded ski resorts. ♨️ Local-Only Hot Springs Relax in authentic onsen with healing mineral waters, away from tourist crowds. For luxury, adventure, and cultural immersion, our VIP tours provide an unforgettable, insider experience of Niigata. Enjoy an unforgettable Exclusive Tour, crafted to create lasting memories.

Discover genuine Japanese sake in Niigata. This private sake-tasting experience offers the chance to learn all about the fundamentals of sake and experience authentic Japanese history, customs, and culture. As you sip sake and enjoy its rich flavors, a Kikisake-shi (sake sommelier) will teach you all about the process of making sake and about the deep connection between sake and the Japanese people.

HEADQUARTERS Campfield offers a “Hands-Free BBQ Plan.” We provide an open space overlooking the campground under a permanent large tarp. We will prepare all the necessary BBQ equipment and ingredients, so you can enjoy BBQ as soon as you arrive.

Get personalized instruction no matter what level you are at from your ski teacher in Yuzawa. You’ll be skiing at Iwappara Ski Resort all day today, surrounded by mountain views and fresh air. Your lesson starts at 9am. Note that lunch, ski equipment and clothing, and your lift ticket are all at an extra cost.

The departure location is selectable from Nozawa Onsen, Myoko Kogen and Madarao Kogen. Starting with a visit to the famous Snow Monkey Park. Get up close and watch as the Snow Monkeys relax in the naturally occurring hot springs of Jigokudani. Thanks to the tour's early morning start you will see the Monkeys as exclusively as it gets! Following this, we will commute to Shibu Onsen town. The first place to stop is Tamamura Honten, a sake & beer brewery established in 1805 attached to a traditional art gallery. After that, our guide will offer you insight into the historic Onsen village. This village was once frequented by Samurai, poets, and travellers alike. Good fortune is said to come to those who bathe in each of the Onsen in town. This section is a walking tour, but if you would prefer to relax in an Onsen, you may do so for just ¥800! Finally, during the green season, we visit Kokugonji, a serene and beautifully maintained temple nestled in rural Nakano and founded in 825.

Immerse yourself in the winter culture of Niigata by booking this private, full-day snowboarding lesson. Whatever your level of snowboarding experience—whether you're a beginner or a seasoned snowboarder—spending time on the snow with your instructor is sure to enhance your skills and techniques. As this is a private lesson, you can be sure of your instructor's undivided attention.

(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.

Explore the enchanting snow-rich regions of Japan, where snow influences not just winter scenery, but also food, culture, and tradition year-round. This immersive journey reveals how melting snow creates pristine water sources essential for high-quality agriculture and fermentation practices. Discover the depth of local cuisine, from refined sake to traditional dishes, and experience unique crafts shaped by this snowy landscape. Witness how spiritual beliefs and everyday life harmonize with the natural environment, showcasing the profound connections between snow and Japanese culture throughout the seasons.

Enjoy the culture and nature of Japan's snow country in Takane, a mountain village on the outskirts of Murakami City, Niigata Prefecture, where snow accumulates to 2 meters during the winter months. This program is an experience in the deepest part of the unexplored Takane area, where the snow is deep and usually not removed. You can experience snow play, food culture of snow country, and snow activities as a nature experience. snow activities as nature experiences. Each experience will be guided by a local guide. Snow play is a symbol of Japan's snow country culture, where visitors can try their hand at making a kamakura or snowman with a “kamakura and snowman making expert. In the Snow Country Food Experience, visitors can make “Takane Rice Rice Balls” with a local woman using local ingredients and preserved foods from the snow country. In addition,

The Garden Place Kobayashiro offers a truly unique setting for romantic photoshoots, blending over 100 years of history with timeless elegance. Established in 1915, this venue features a meticulously crafted daimyo garden by renowned gardener Sakai Biseki, which took three years to complete. The garden transforms with the seasons, showcasing plum blossoms in spring, lush greenery in summer, fiery autumn leaves, and a serene snow-covered landscape in winter. Graceful Nishikigoi carp swim through the pond, while stepping stones and stone bridges provide countless enchanting backdrops. The venue itself, a beautifully restored 100-year-old house, combines traditional charm with modern touches, making it ideal for creating unforgettable memories. Every corner of The Garden Place Kobayashiro exudes tranquility and romance, offering couples the perfect canvas to capture their love story in an atmosphere of unparalleled beauty and sophistication.

Explore the essence of Japanese culture through an immersive journey that intertwines history, food, fermentation, and nature. Wander through a breathtaking landscape shaped by mountains and forests, discovering how traditional practices in agriculture and craftsmanship developed over time. Engage in hands-on experiences at historical sites and craft workshops, while indulging in local culinary delights, including rice cultivation and sake brewing. This exploration reveals the deep connections between community, spirituality, and the environment, offering a rich understanding of Japan’s cultural evolution.

You can visit Otake Confectionery (sandwich bread), Ameya (traditional sweets), the former division commander's residence, Mochiya (grilled rice dumplings), Takada Castle Three-story Turret, Takada Komachi, Taga Tea Shop (tea and Japanese sweets), and more. You can go there by bicycle and return by local train.

Recommended Spot Big Zelkova Tree (Kamisuwa Shrine) Experience the serenity of this 1,000-year-old tree, believed to protect the land and worshipped as a god of agriculture. Cedar Tree Path to Shrine Explore the historic Yahiko Cedar path, a natural monument, and cultural property, either by TUKTUK or Motorcycle. Triangle Field (Hachimai-zawa Forest Path Branch) Enjoy the expansive landscape and peaceful time with views of Mt. Yahiko. Haraedo Shrine Dedicated to the god of purification, cleanse yourself before visiting Yahiko Shrine’s main hall. Yahiko Shrine Known as "Oyahikosama," it's the symbol of Yahiko Village. Offer prayers with two bows, four claps, and one bow. Mt.Yahiko Ropeway (4-hour and 2-hour courses only) Take a 5-minute ride to the summit for stunning views. On clear days, you can see Sado Island. Rice Field Area Witness Mt. Yahiko reflected in water-filled rice fields, a beautiful and nostalgic landscape.