Complete Guide to Niigata Prefecture’s Must-Visit Attractions [2025 Edition]

Niigata Prefecture offers a harmonious blend of stunning natural beauty and rich cultural heritage. With its extensive coastline along the Sea of Japan, majestic mountains, and fertile plains, visitors can enjoy breathtaking seasonal landscapes throughout the year. On July 27, 2024, “Sado Island Gold Mines” was registered as a UNESCO World Heritage site, becoming Japan’s 26th World Heritage site and attracting increased international attention. This guide introduces must-visit attractions in Niigata Prefecture that every foreign visitor should experience.

Overview of Niigata Prefecture: A Rich Food Culture Rooted in Rice Cultivation

Niigata Prefecture is located on the Sea of Japan side of Honshu and boasts the fifth-largest land area among all prefectures in Japan. Rice cultivation thrives in the expansive Echigo Plain surrounding the Shinano River, Japan’s longest river, making Niigata one of Japan’s premier rice-producing regions. The prefecture’s signature rice variety “Koshihikari” is produced in top-class quantities nationwide, and consequently, Niigata is also renowned for its sake, rice crackers, and rice flour products.

Geographically, the northern and eastern parts of the prefecture include mountainous areas designated as special heavy snowfall zones, such as Aga Town and Sekikawa Village, while the plains around Niigata City have relatively less snowfall. The climate features cool summers and snowy winters typical of the Sea of Japan coast.

This natural environment provides abundant delicious rice, fine sake, and a wealth of seafood and mountain delicacies, supporting Niigata’s rich food culture.

Kiyotsu Gorge: A World-Class Scenic Spot with Tunnel of Light

Kiyotsu Gorge, recognized as one of Japan’s three great gorges along with Kurobe Gorge and Osugi Valley, is a scenic area designated as a national scenic spot and natural monument. Enormous rock walls rise on both sides of the river, creating an impressive V-shaped gorge that is nationally renowned.

The Kiyotsu Gorge Tunnel is approximately 750 meters long. As you proceed through the dimly lit tunnel, you’ll find three observation points and the “Panorama Station” at the innermost part. The tunnel was renovated for the 2018 Echigo-Tsumari Art Triennale by the Chinese architectural group “Ma Yansong/MAD Architects” as an art installation called “Tunnel of Light.”

The toilet at the second observation point is particularly famous; it uses special materials that allow you to see out from inside but not vice versa. When seated on the toilet, you can enjoy the beautiful columnar joints of Kiyotsu Gorge and seasonal scenery—a “scenic toilet” that has become famous.

From the Panorama Station at the deepest part, you can view the impressive natural landscape of the deep V-shaped gorge and the emerald green waters of the Kiyotsu River with its high transparency.

Access Information:

• Address: 2119-2 Koide, Tokamachi City, Niigata Prefecture
• Hours: 8:30 AM to last entry at 4:30 PM
• Access: 25 minutes by bus from JR Echigo-Yuzawa Station (Express Bus to Morimiyanohara), get off at “Kiyotsu Gorge Entrance” bus stop, then walk about 30 minutes

Sado Island Gold Mines: A World Heritage Site Registered in 2024

On July 27, 2024, the “Sado Island Gold Mines” was registered as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, becoming Japan’s 26th World Heritage site. Sado Gold Mine is Japan’s largest gold and silver mine, with mine tunnels extending approximately 400 km.

The World Heritage “Sado Island Gold Mines” consists of two major mines, the Aikawa-Tsurushi Gold and Silver Mine and the Nishimikawa Placer Gold Mine. Different production organizations were formed according to the characteristics of each mine, and a large-scale production system based on traditional handicrafts was developed under the management and operation of the Tokugawa Shogunate. Additionally, the workers gathered from various parts of Japan under the shogunate’s policies created a unique mining culture.

The Sado Gold Mine was opened in 1601 and produced approximately 78 tons of gold and 2,330 tons of silver over about 400 years, with gold veins measuring 3,000 meters east to west, 600 meters north to south, and 800 meters deep.

At the “Historic Sado Gold Mine” tourist facility, you can experience the “Sodayu Shaft Course” and “Doyu Shaft Course” to tour the tunnels. Inside the cool tunnels, mechanical dolls recreate the mining scenes from the Edo period. At the exhibition hall, the popular “Gold Bar Lifting Challenge” allows visitors to feel the heft of actual gold.

Access Information:

• Address: Aikawa, Sado City, Niigata Prefecture
• Access: From Niigata Prefecture, you can reach Sado Island by ferry or jetfoil from Niigata Port or Naoetsu Port. The car ferry takes about 2 hours and 30 minutes, while the jetfoil takes about 1 hour and 5 minutes.

Attractive Tourist Spots on Sado Island

Senkaku Bay

Senkaku Bay is a collective name for five small bays stretching about 3 km along the coast from Himezu to Kitadeki. The breathtaking scenery of 30-meter-high spire-like cliffs captivates visitors.

Designated as one of Japan’s “100 Famous Beaches,” the area is also a marine park, allowing visitors to enjoy the underwater scenery of Senkaku Bay via glass-bottom boats. Senkaku Bay Ageshima Park is also known as a film location, and the observatory in the park offers a panoramic view of Senkaku Bay’s dynamic landscape.

Tarai-bune (Tub Boat) Experience

At “Tarai-bune Ryokakuya Kankosen,” you can actually experience Sado’s tourist highlight, the tarai-bune (tub boat). These tub boats were modified from washing tubs in the early Meiji period for fishing purposes. Even today, tub boats are used for fishing seaweed along the Ogi coast of Sado Island.

The tarai-bune experience uses larger tubs than those used for actual fishing, allowing visitors to enjoy the unique sensation of swaying on the sea. There are also courses where you can speed across the Sea of Japan in motorboats and tour scenic spots, allowing you to enjoy the view from the sea.

Toki Forest Park

“Toki Forest Park” is where you can observe the Japanese crested ibis (toki), the only bird in Japan designated as an internationally protected species. The park includes the “Toki Exhibition Hall” and “Toki Fureai Plaza.”

Sado Island is known as the center of protection and breeding activities for the Japanese crested ibis, which once became an endangered species. At Toki Forest Park, you can learn about the ecology of the ibis and the history of conservation efforts, as well as observe the actual birds.

Tourist Spots in the Heart of Niigata: Niigata City

Imayotsukasa Sake Brewery

Located in the center of Niigata Prefecture, Imayotsukasa Sake Brewery has over 120 years of history in the Nuuttari area. It was the first brewery in Niigata Prefecture after World War II to produce all-junmai sake, balancing respect for tradition with innovation. It is also the only brewery in Niigata Prefecture that still brews sake in traditional wooden tanks every year.

Founded in 1767, Imayotsukasa Sake Brewery is located closest to Niigata Station among the numerous sake breweries in Niigata Prefecture. The brewery feels a mission to provide an environment where people can become more familiar with local sake by keeping the brewery open rather than closed off, and they welcome visitors daily.

Brewery tours and tastings are available, and the staff provides detailed explanations not only about Imayotsukasa’s sake-making but also about the history of Niigata and the Nuuttari area. The souvenir for tour participants is a sake cup, with wrapping paper recycled from old labels no longer in use, showing their environmental consciousness.

Access Information:

• Address: Kagamigaoka, Chuo-ku, Niigata City, Niigata Prefecture
• Access: About 15 minutes on foot from JR “Niigata Station”

Hakusan Shrine

Located in the center of Niigata Prefecture, Hakusan Shrine is famous for matchmaking blessings and has a history of over 1,000 years as the “Guardian Deity of Niigata.” In the shrine grounds, there is a sacred tree called “Musubi no Icho” (Matchmaking Ginkgo), believed to bring good fortune in relationships and children.

The shrine is crowded with many worshippers during New Year visits and various festivals, making it an important shrine for Niigata City residents.

Access Information:

• Address: Ichibanbori-dori, Chuo-ku, Niigata City, Niigata Prefecture
• Access: About 10 minutes on foot from Hakusan Station (JR Echigo Line)

Pia Bandai

Located at the mouth of the Shinano River on Bandai Island, “Pia Bandai” is a gourmet spot where Niigata’s “food” is gathered. The site, formerly a fish market, centers around the “Bandai Island Fresh Fish Center” and is lined with eateries and restaurants.

It offers not only fresh seafood but also direct-from-the-farm vegetables and fruits, Niigata’s brand rice and sake, and meat from Sado and Murakami, showcasing a wide range of Niigata’s specialty products. Gourmet options include conveyor belt sushi with seasonal ingredients from Sado at reasonable prices, Italian delis using Niigata ingredients, freshly made baumkuchen from coffee specialty shops, and fruit sandwiches using plenty of Niigata fruits. With its excellent location close to downtown Niigata and easy access, you can fully enjoy local specialties.

Access Information:

• Address: Bandai Island, Chuo-ku, Niigata City, Niigata Prefecture
• Access: About 10 minutes by bus from Niigata Station

The Beautiful Natural Landscape of the “Myoko” Area

Mount Myoko

Mount Myoko straddles Niigata and Nagano prefectures. As the highest peak among the Hokushin Five Mountains, it is also known as “Echigo Fuji” due to its long, spreading foothills. The mountain slopes are home to numerous ski resorts and resort hotels, attracting many skiers annually.

Hiking courses range from beginner to intermediate, and you can enjoy day trips or stay overnight for a more leisurely hiking experience. There are also hot spring towns at the foot of the mountain, perfect for soothing tired bodies.

Akakura Onsen Ski Resort

The snow quality in the Myoko Highlands is renowned, and “Akakura Onsen Ski Resort” attracts many foreign tourists. The recommended feature of this ski resort is that it’s the only one in the surrounding area that offers night skiing every day.

Additionally, there are many hot springs in the vicinity, and you may receive discounts by showing your lift ticket. These hot springs are perfect for warming up cold bodies, so after enjoying skiing or snowboarding, be sure to visit the surrounding hot springs.

Naena Falls

Naena Falls is one of Japan’s 100 Famous Waterfalls. Located on the Seki River flowing along the border between Niigata and Nagano prefectures, the waterfall has a drop of 55 meters. In the past, the sound of water falling from the falls was so intense that the thunderous roar echoed throughout the surrounding forest, resembling an earthquake, hence it was also called “Earthquake Falls.”

About 15 minutes along a well-maintained walking path from the parking lot, there is an observation deck where you can see the massive flow of snowmelt water. Lava with cracks like stacked boards (columnar joints) has developed on the cliff above the walking path, and the surrounding basalt walls evoke the grandeur of nature.

Access Information:

• Address: Suginozawa, Myoko City, Niigata Prefecture
• Access: About 30 minutes by car from “Myoko Kogen IC” on the Joshinetsu Expressway

Niigata’s Sake and Koshihikari Rice: Food Culture to Be Proud Of

Niigata’s Sake Culture

As Japan’s premier rice-growing region, Niigata Prefecture produces numerous fine sakes from its quality rice, water, and climate. There are about 90 sake breweries in Niigata Prefecture, producing over 100 varieties of sake.

The long north-south expanse of Niigata Prefecture results in regional taste differences: the Kaetsu area (northern) is known for crisp dry sake, the Chuetsu area (central) for light-bodied sake, and the Joetsu area (southern) for clean-finishing sweet sake.

Niigata Prefecture has many sake brewery tour spots where you can learn about the sake-making process and enjoy tastings. There are even 15 sake breweries in Niigata City alone, with many offering tours and tastings, making it a must-visit destination for sake enthusiasts.

Niigata Koshihikari Rice

Koshihikari is the first name that comes to mind when thinking of Niigata. Its name comes from the wish for “rice that shines brilliantly in the land of Koshi (an old name for the region).” The characteristics of cooked rice include whiteness and luster, stickiness when eaten, subtle sweetness, and a distinctive aroma.

In Niigata Prefecture, there is a commitment to maintaining Koshihikari’s quality through soil building (analyzing each rice field to design appropriate fertilization), water management (controlling the amount and timing of water supply to rice fields), and promoting low-pesticide cultivation (efforts to minimize the number of pesticide applications).

Currently, for market distribution, it is divided into four regional brands: “Niigata General,” “Uonuma,” “Iwafune,” and “Sado.” In particular, Uonuma Koshihikari is known as the “pinnacle of Koshihikari,” with concentrated sweetness and umami that make it highly popular.

When visiting Niigata, be sure to try local dishes made with local rice. Freshly cooked rice is delicious, but making it into onigiri (rice balls) concentrates the flavor even more.

Niigata’s Famous Hot Springs: Hot Spring Tour

Senami Onsen

With a history of over 100 years, this hot spring is characterized by its abundant hot water at 95°C and its location right in front of the Sea of Japan, making it one of the nation’s finest locations. Even now, water over 90°C gushes out on the south side highlands where the original spring is located, and it’s popular to make onsen eggs in the hot spring water.

There are foot baths that draw directly from the spring source, as well as foot baths with spectacular views of the Sea of Japan, perfect for breaks during walks. From the hot springs along the beautiful coastline, you can see the beautiful sunset sinking into the Sea of Japan, refreshing both body and soul with the scent of the hot springs and the sea, and the spectacular sunset view.

Access Information:

• Address: Senami Onsen, Murakami City, Niigata Prefecture
• Access: 10 minutes by bus from JR Uetsu Main Line “Murakami Station,” or 11 minutes by car from “Murakami Senami Onsen IC” on the Nihonkai Tohoku Expressway

Echigo Yuzawa Onsen

Located in Yuzawa Town on the border between Niigata and Gunma prefectures, this hot spring is also famous as the model for Yasunari Kawabata’s novel “Snow Country.” Echigo-Yuzawa Station is about 1 hour and 20 minutes from Tokyo by Shinkansen or about 3 hours by car, making it easily accessible. In winter, it becomes a popular hot spring destination as a snow resort with abundant leisure activities.

One of the charms is that even within the same Echigo Yuzawa Onsen, the water quality differs depending on the facility, allowing you to enjoy various baths on a bath tour. In front of the station, there is a newly established “foot bath,” and along the roads are traditional hot spring inns, souvenir shops selling hot spring manju and sasa-dango, and nostalgic shooting galleries for entertainment.

Don’t miss the Yuzawa Ropeway for an aerial walk. Enjoy the panoramic view from the Panorama Station after ascending to the summit while overlooking the great natural landscape.

Access Information:

• Address: Yuzawa Town, Minamiuonuma District, Niigata Prefecture
• Access: Directly from JR Joetsu Line “Echigo-Yuzawa Station,” or 5 minutes by car from “Yuzawa IC” on the Kan-Etsu Expressway

Iwamuro Onsen

With a history of over 300 years since the Edo period, Iwamuro Onsen is also known as the birthplace of Echigo geisha. The characteristic of Iwamuro Onsen is its “black hot water.” The sulfur and iron combine to form iron sulfide, which turns black, and these black particles adhere to the spring mouth and bath, sometimes blackening the soles of your feet.

Walking through the hot spring town at dusk, you may encounter geisha heading to their appointments, and the atmosphere of the hot spring town combined with the gorgeous appearance of the geisha creates an indescribable elegance. To learn more about Iwamuro Onsen, it’s also recommended to visit “Niigata City Iwamuro Tourism Facility Iwamuroya.” There are exhibitions and experiences about history and culture, as well as the opportunity to purchase local products and enjoy the black hot spring in the foot bath.

Access Information:

• Address: Iwamuro Onsen, Nishikan-ku, Niigata City, Niigata Prefecture
• Access: 5 minutes by car from JR Echigo Line “Iwamuro Station,” or 20 minutes by car from “Maki Gata East IC” on the Hokuriku Expressway

Akakura Onsen and Shin-Akakura Onsen

Surrounded by great nature, both Akakura Onsen and Shin-Akakura Onsen draw hot spring water from Mount Myoko, one of Japan’s 100 Famous Mountains. Akakura Onsen, with over 200 years of history, is a famous hot spring with two types of spring quality. Due to natural conditions such as spring temperature, distance from the source, and appropriate gradient, the water reaches each facility at an exquisite temperature of about 42°C.

It is said to be a “natural skin lotion” and a “spiritual spring,” with highly regarded efficacy. Also, Shin-Akakura Onsen, located at the fork between Akakura Onsen and Ikenotaira Onsen, is a resort area surrounded by white birch and larch forests. It is crowded with skiers in winter and has pleasant highland breezes in summer.

Access Information:

• Address (Akakura Onsen): 585-1 Akakura, Myoko City, Niigata Prefecture
• Access: About 10 minutes by bus or taxi from “Myoko Kogen Station” on the Echigo-Tokimeki Railway Myoko Haneuma Line, or about 10 minutes by car from “Myoko Kogen IC” on the Joshinetsu Expressway

Best Seasons to Visit Niigata

Niigata Prefecture has different attractions for each season.

Spring (March to May)

Spring is cherry blossom season. The cherry blossoms at Takada Park are known as one of “Japan’s Three Great Night Cherry Blossoms,” and the illuminated three-story turret, cherry blossoms, and their reflection in the moat water is spectacular. Also, during the rice planting season, you can see the “upside-down rice fields” where the sky and mountains are reflected in the water-filled rice fields.

Summer (June to August)

Summer is the season for swimming and marine sports. You can enjoy swimming at the beaches of Sado Island and Niigata City. In August, fireworks festivals representing Niigata, such as the Nagaoka Festival Grand Fireworks and Katakai Festival Fireworks, are held.

Autumn (September to November)

Autumn is the season for foliage and harvest. You can enjoy beautiful autumn leaves at places like Yahiko Park and Myoko Highlands throughout the prefecture. It’s also the season for new rice, the best time to taste Niigata’s brand rice at its most delicious.

Winter (December to February)

Winter is the season to enjoy snowy landscapes, hot springs, and winter sports. Particularly in the Myoko and Yuzawa areas, there are numerous ski resorts known for their quality powder snow. Viewing snowy landscapes from hot springs is also exceptional, and soaking in a hot spring while viewing the snow is a luxury unique to Niigata.

How to Access Niigata Prefecture

From Tokyo

By Train:

• Joetsu Shinkansen from Tokyo Station to Niigata Station: minimum about 2 hours
• Joetsu Shinkansen from Tokyo Station to Echigo-Yuzawa Station: minimum about 1 hour 20 minutes

By Plane:

• From Haneda Airport to Niigata Airport: about 1 hour
• From Niigata Airport to downtown Niigata City: about 25 minutes by bus

By Car:

• Via Kan-Etsu Expressway and Hokuriku Expressway from Tokyo to Niigata City: about 4 hours 30 minutes
• Via Kan-Etsu Expressway from Tokyo to Echigo-Yuzawa: about 3 hours

From Osaka

By Train:

• Via Tokaido/Hokuriku Shinkansen and local lines from Osaka Station to Niigata Station: about 5 hours 30 minutes

By Plane:

• From Kansai International Airport or Itami Airport to Niigata Airport: about 1 hour 10 minutes

By Car:

• Via Meishin Expressway and Hokuriku Expressway from Osaka to Niigata City: about 7 hours

From Nagoya

By Train:

• Via Tokaido Shinkansen/Hokuriku Shinkansen and local lines from Nagoya Station to Niigata Station: about 4 hours

By Plane:

• From Chubu International Airport to Niigata Airport: about 1 hour

By Car:

• Via Tomei Expressway and Hokuriku Expressway from Nagoya to Niigata City: about 5 hours 30 minutes

To Sado Island

From Niigata Port:

• Car Ferry: Niigata Port to Ryotsu Port: about 2 hours 30 minutes
• Jetfoil: Niigata Port to Ryotsu Port: about 1 hour 5 minutes

From Naoetsu Port:

• Car Ferry: Naoetsu Port to Ogi Port: about 2 hours 30 minutes

Tips and Recommended Information for Tourists

Seasonal Clothing

• Spring (March to May): Dress in layers as temperature differences between day and night can be significant. Snow may remain until early March.
• Summer (June to August): Relatively cool, but it can get hot in midsummer, so light clothing and sun protection are necessary.
• Autumn (September to November): It can get cold in the mornings and evenings, so it’s good to have something to wear over your clothes.
• Winter (December to February): The cold is severe and snowfall is heavy, so warm and snow protection is essential. In particular, when visiting mountainous areas, prepare winter shoes or anti-slip devices.

Transportation

• Having a rental car allows you to efficiently visit tourist spots. It’s particularly convenient when going to mountainous areas or rural tourist spots.
• Within Niigata City, there are trams and buses, but they may be infrequent, so check in advance.
• The “Niigata Sightseeing Loop Bus” is convenient for tourism as it circles the main tourist facilities in the city. One-day passes are also available.
• On Sado Island, bus services are limited, so renting a car or using taxis is recommended for sightseeing.

Gourmet Information

• Hegi Soba: Soba noodles characterized by their unique texture using “funori” seaweed as a binding agent. Famous in Ojiya City.
• Noppe: A local Niigata dish. A stewed dish with various ingredients, often served at celebratory occasions.
• Sasa Dango: A Japanese sweet with anko (sweet bean paste) wrapped in rice cake made with mugwort, all wrapped in bamboo leaves. A representative souvenir of Niigata.
• Tare Katsu: Tonkatsu (pork cutlet) with sweet-savory sauce. A specialty dish of Niigata City.
• Sake: Niigata sake is characterized by its crisp dryness. It’s also recommended to enjoy sake tasting at brewery-direct shops.

Souvenir Information

• Rice Crackers: Snacks made from rice such as “Kaki no Tane” and “Bakauke” are unique Niigata souvenirs.
• Sake: Sake sets with the distinctive flavors of each brewery are also popular souvenirs.
• Sasa Dango: There are many products designed to keep well, making them popular souvenirs.
• Hegi Soba: Dried noodle versions are also available so you can enjoy the taste of Niigata at home.
• Salmon Products: There are abundant products using the seafood of Niigata, such as “salt-cured salmon” and “grilled salmon preserves” from Murakami.

Conclusion

Niigata Prefecture is an attractive tourist destination with beautiful scenery across the four seasons, rich food culture, and historical tourist spots. Particularly since “Sado Island Gold Mines” was registered as a World Heritage site on July 27, 2024, it has been attracting more attention from both domestic and international visitors than ever before.

The charm of Niigata is so diverse that it cannot be experienced in a single visit. From seafood nurtured by the rough waves of the Sea of Japan, to Koshihikari grown in the vast Echigo Plain, to the hot spring culture unique to snowy regions, you can enjoy with all five senses.

Please visit Niigata Prefecture and experience the harmony of nature and culture that is quintessentially Japanese. No matter which season you visit, new discoveries and impressions await.

References

1. Niigata Tourism Association “Niigata Tourism Navi”, https://niigata-kankou.or.jp/, Accessed: May 3, 2025
2. Sado City Tourism Association “Sado Tourism Navi”, https://www.visitsado.com/, Accessed: May 3, 2025
3. Kiyotsu Gorge Official Website, https://nakasato-kiyotsu.com/, Accessed: May 3, 2025
4. Imayotsukasa Sake Brewery Co., Ltd., https://imayotsukasa.co.jp/, Accessed: May 3, 2025
5. Niigata Sake Brewers Association, https://www.niigata-sake.or.jp/, Accessed: May 3, 2025
6. JA Zen-Noh Niigata “Koshihikari”, https://www.zennoh.or.jp/nt/product/rice/koshihikari.html, Accessed: May 3, 2025