2025 Niigata Prefecture Travel Guide: Must-see attractions, popular food, hotels, transportation routes (updated in June)

🌾 Echigo-Yuzawa Onsen (Yuzawa Town) Located in the southern part of Niigata Prefecture, Echigo-Yuzawa Onsen is renowned as a ski resort. In winter, visitors can enjoy skiing and snowboarding, while from spring to autumn, the area offers hot springs and nature walks. The area around the station is also well-equipped with foot baths and shops selling local specialties. 🏯 Niigata City History Museum Minatopia (Niigata City) This museum allows visitors to learn about the history of Niigata City's port town and features exhibits housed in buildings from the Meiji era. The surrounding area is dotted with historical structures such as the Former Niigata Customs House and the Former Fourth Bank Sumiyoshi Branch, making it ideal for a leisurely stroll. 🌸 Takada Park (Joetsu City) Takada Park boasts approximately 4,000 cherry trees and is famous for its nighttime cherry blossom views. In spring, the "Takada Castle Million People Cherry Blossom Festival" is held, attracting numerous tourists. 🏞️ Sasagawa Nagare (Murakami City) This scenic coastal area along the Sea of Japan features stunning rock formations and caves. Visitors can also enjoy the view from the sea by taking a sightseeing boat tour. 🍶 Niigata Sake Brewery Tours Niigata is well-known as a hub for Japanese sake production, with numerous breweries scattered throughout the region. Many breweries offer tours and tastings, providing an unforgettable experience for sake enthusiasts.

Go to the sea and enjoy the city view. Visit Furumachi and explore interesting shops. Sit in the garden and enjoy Japanese tea. Visit the aquarium to see small animals. Go to the hot spring and have a fried chicken set meal after the bath. Experience the Showa bathhouse. Niigata Prefecture is famous for its magnificent natural landscapes. 👂️One of the most famous attractions is Yukimura Mountain, which is 2,400 meters above sea level and is one of the most beautiful mountain ranges in Japan. At the top of the mountain, you can enjoy breathtaking sunrises and sea of clouds. In addition, Niigata has many lakes and rivers, such as Nagai River and Nakatsugawa River, which offer a variety of water activities such as boating, fishing, and rafting. 🤔 Secondly, Niigata Prefecture has a long history and rich cultural heritage. Here, you can visit many ancient temples and shrines, such as Matsumoto Temple in Takada City and Tendo Temple in Kashiwazaki City. These temples and shrines not only showcase traditional Japanese architectural styles, but also inherit rich religious cultures. In addition, Niigata has many museums and art galleries, such as the Bandai Bridge Art Museum in Niigata City and the Niigata Historical Village in Kashiwazaki City, which allow you to learn more about the history and culture of Niigata. 😆

Niigata Prefecture in Japan is a place full of natural beauty and historical culture, and one of the most famous tourist attractions is the Niigata Tunnel. This tunnel is located in the center of Niigata City and is an important transportation hub connecting the city center and the west coast. 🎈 The Niigata Tunnel has a unique architectural design and adopts a modern design concept. The exterior presents a streamlined curve shape, giving a sense of the future. The interior of the tunnel is spacious and bright, with advanced lighting facilities, allowing tourists to feel comfortable and safe when passing through the tunnel. ❤️ In addition to its unique architectural style, the Niigata Tunnel also has amazing natural landscapes. The walls on both sides of the tunnel are inlaid with huge glass windows. Tourists can enjoy the beautiful sea view and city scenery while passing through the tunnel. Especially at night, the lights in the tunnel create a romantic and mysterious atmosphere, as if in a dream world. 🌳

I'll introduce 7 must-visit art spots and recommended spots to take photos in Niigata✍🏻 (All photos are from July 2024) ＿＿＿＿＿＿＿＿＿＿＿＿＿＿＿＿ ▼ sᴘᴏᴛ 📷 ┈┈┈┈┈┈┈┈┈┈┈ Reverse City ┈┈┈┈┈┈┈┈┈┈┈ 📍 Address | Matsushiro, Tokamachi City, Niigata Prefecture 🕰️ Hours | 24 hours ┈┈┈┈┈┈┈┈┈┈┈┈┈┈┈┈┈┈┈┈ For the many lost windows ┈┈┈┈┈┈┈┈┈┈┈┈┈┈┈┈ 📍 Address | Kikyohara, Tokamachi City, Niigata Prefecture (Kikyohara Moisture Park) 🕰️ Hours | 24 hours ┈┈┈┈┈┈┈┈┈ Rotating Absence ┈┈┈┈┈┈┈┈ 📍 Address | 3743 Matsushiro, Tokamachi City, Niigata Prefecture 🕰️ Hours | 24 hours ┈┈┈┈┈┈┈┈┈ Geronpa chorus ┈┈┈┈┈┈┈┈ 📍 Address | 3743-1 Matsushiro, Tokamachi City, Niigata Prefecture 🕰️ Hours | 24 hours ┈┈┈┈┈ Bijinbayashi Forest ┈┈┈┈┈ 📍 Address | 1225-1 Matsuguchi, Matsunoyama, Tokamachi City, Niigata Prefecture 🕰️ Hours | 24 hours ┈┈┈┈┈┈┈┈┈┈┈┈┈┈┈┈┈┈┈ Pokefuta Magikarp and Pigeon ┈┈┈┈┈┈┈┈┈┈┈┈┈┈┈┈┈ 📍 Address | 4915 Sakuramachi, Ojiya City, Niigata Prefecture 🕰️ Hours | 24 hours ┈┈┈┈┈┈┈┈┈┈┈┈┈┈┈┈┈┈┈┈┈ Pokefuta Magikarp and Gyarados ┈┈┈┈┈┈┈┈┈┈┈┈┈┈┈┈┈┈ 📍 Address | 2-7-5 Jonai, Ojiya City, Niigata Prefecture 🕰️ Hours | 24 hours 🏷️ Save it and use it as a reference for your next outing! ＿＿＿＿＿＿＿＿＿＿＿＿＿＿＿＿＿ ✍🏻 ᴍᴇᴍᴏ ˊ˗ Ojiya City is the birthplace of Nishikigoi 🐟 You can see Magikarp Poke Lids (manholes) ✨ ＿＿＿＿＿＿＿＿＿＿＿＿＿＿＿＿ #Niigata Tourism #Niigata Trip #Echigoi Art Festival #Domestic Travel

Takada Castle Park was built on the ruins of Takada Castle, which was constructed over 400 years ago by Tokugawa Ieyasu's sixth son, Matsudaira Tadateru. The park is very spacious, covering about 50 hectares, and is planted with approximately 4,000 cherry blossom trees, mainly Somei Yoshino cherry trees. The scenery during the spring bloom, combined with the Takada Castle's three-story turret and the Aota River, is as picturesque as a painting. Especially at night, when the lights are lit, a dreamy atmosphere envelops the area. Along with Hirosaki Park in Aomori Prefecture and Ueno Onshi Park in Tokyo, it is known as one of Japan's three major night cherry blossom spots. In early April, the Takada Castle Million People Cherry Blossom Viewing Party is held in the park. As the name suggests, the park is bustling with people and a festive atmosphere. To tour the extensive Takada Castle Park, it is recommended to take a walk outside the castle's moat to Gokuraku Bridge during the day, then enter the castle for a visit. In the evening, shift to the Cherry Blossom Boulevard to enjoy the night cherry blossoms. During the cherry blossom viewing party, about 3,000 paper lanterns are set up in the venue. When it gets dark and the lights are turned on, the approximately 4,000 cherry blossom trees suddenly sparkle. The Takada Castle's three-story turret stands out like a protagonist on the stage, bathed in light. The cherry blossoms and the castle reflected in the moat create a dreamlike and unforgettable scene. Additionally, next to the Chureito Pagoda, there are song and dance performances on the cherry blossom stage to ignite the atmosphere, and near the Nishibori Bridge, there are a variety of food stalls, turning the park into a grand carnival. No wonder it attracts more than a hundred thousand cherry blossom viewers every year, from morning to night. Takada Castle Park Address: 44-1 Honjo-machi, Joetsu City, Niigata Prefecture

When I go to Japan🇯🇵, I quite like going to local izakayas🏮 Because it must be cheaper than Hong Kong🇭🇰 and more authentic🥹 And it's even rarer to have food in rural places😚 For example, we go to Niigata 😍 it is a more rural place Restaurant🍴 is more concentrated in the station🤭 I went to the nearby after the whole day's activities to find food We chose ぽんしゅ馆 Uonuma Kamatsu❤️ In Japan🇯🇵 One special thing is that many times when choosing food is based on the photos😂 You may find surprises This one shop first offers a wide variety of Niigata specialties!! ️Whether it's seafood or drinks🤭 No wonder it's so popular with Japanese people😂 Especially the variety of Japanese sake 🤣 Maybe because Niigata is a very famous place for making sake in Japan🇯🇵🥹 There are so many choices that it is difficult to choose🤪 I go on weekdays so there is no need to make a reservation to have a seat but it is full 😳 so want to eat on holiday best to make a reservation first There are quite a few Japanese people come to buy from as you can imagine its quality should be quite good Because the seafood is very fresh so we of course have ordered a platter 😍 It has several different sashimi on top! ️ It will change depending on the season 🥹 but normally more mainstream will have 🤭 It tastes really fresh and sweet 🤪👍🏻 It's great without soy sauce In addition, because it specified the use of Niigata rice so we have ordered kama rice ❤️ here to Japan 🇯🇵 anything to eat 😳 The clerk will take it and cook it slowly in front of you🤭 medium enough to open the lid and enjoy😚 I ordered the eight-caught fish 😍 the whole rice will absorb its essence!! ️ And there will be mushrooms, etc. so it is very chewy 🤣 super good 👏🏻👏🏻 I think if the tourists without self-driving come to say This izakaya🏮 is very convenient because it is only a minute from the station❤️ And it can be booked This is very convenient for arranging trips Address: 950-0086 1-96-47 Garden, Chuo-ku, Niigata, Niigata Prefecture #Japanese and Korean city attractions #I miss #resident writer #overseas travel #weekend tour #food guide #Japan #japan travel #japan attractions #parents and children travel guide #parent-child holiday destinations #couples destinations

Niigata as a rural place actually has many special attractions😌 The first time I came here I was surprised It has more museums 🤣 many introduce the local historical development 🤭 A lot of culture and architecture are well preserved 👍🏻 For example, like the Museum of Northern Culture The Museum of Northern Culture is actually the Ito Mansion built in 1889 ❤️ You can imagine it has a history of many years It was preserved and opened to everyone in 1946 as a museum In this vast house you can appreciate the Japanese garden 😎 You can also appreciate the fine art collected by the owners of the past generations 😌😌 And in spring you can also see the blooming cherry blossoms 🌸 and the 150-year-old wisteria flower flowers 🪷 autumn leaves 🍁 and so on 🤣🤣 Here you can see all the changing seasons ❤️ So everyone will come to visit this one Because it is a tourist attraction so there are gift shops, coffee shops and restaurants 🍴 and so on in the yard😎 However, the restaurant🍴 requires a reservation🤭 You have to pay attention And it requires an entrance fee 😌 So you can consider whether you would want to visit this attraction #Japan Attractions #Holiday Good Places #Christmas Good Places 2022 #Resident Writer #Parents Good Places #Overseas Travel #Parents Good Places Guide #Japan #Japanese Cuisine #Japan Travel #Japan Good Places #Japan Travel Strategy #Travel

Niigata is actually a food capital Although it is not so urban 🙈 but its food quality is better and higher value for money 👍🏻 This time we chose a quite famous restaurant🍴 Yuzuma Kamazo At the door I saw his very large sign saying he was using new rice The rice cooked here will be especially delicious😁 This restaurant🍴 uses about 100 kinds of wine from Niigata Prefecture and a large number of seasonal ingredients to prepare dishes 🫶🏻🫶🏻 so you can definitely eat the most seasonal food and flavor in Niigata😎😎 However, the restaurant🍴 has a very modern Japanese atmosphere 👍🏻❤️ Create a place where you can relax while eating😌 It is very comfortable to talk to friends😌 Their dishes use the freshest fish😆 so the freshness of each dish is very good The point is because of the large use of local ingredients 🤭 so the price is very affordable 👍🏻 If you are in Niigata, you should not miss this restaurant🍴 Address: 1-96-47 Garden, Chuo-ku, Niigata, Niigata Prefecture #Japan Attractions #Christmas Good Places 2022 #Holiday Good Places #Hong Kong Good Places #Resident Writer #Japan #JapaneseCooking #JapanTravel #foodie

Sake Museum "PONSHU Pavilion" is a very special souvenir shop located in Niigata Station🫶🏻 Mainly selling various Japanese sake and rice biscuits 🍪 while there are drinks made with rice, etc. 🤣 so it is very different from the usual souvenir shop And his concept is to use food to express Echigo Uonuma culture 😁 thereby starting to promote Niigata food 👍🏻 The museum has the "Nippon Sake House" for Niigata Japanese sake and the "Echigo Uonuma Shop" for fermented foods. If you want to eat, you can go to the Uonuma Kamazo inside 😆 In this pair, you can definitely taste Japanese sake and food 🤭🤭 In addition, its "Sake Resort" is a super popular attraction selected by all Japan🗾 wine fans😎 Here you can try all the Japanese wines in Niigata's wine cellars❤️❤️ The tasting at the Sake Museum "PONSHU Pavilion" is to use tokens 🫶🏻 Just use 500yen to exchange for 5 tokens to try it 👍🏻👍🏻 If you go to Niigata be sure to go and see it #Japan Attractions #Christmas Good Places 2022 #Holiday Good Places #Hong Kong Good Places #Resident Writer #Parents Good Places #Overseas Travel #foodie #cafe #hkfoodie #I miss #Japan #Japanese Cuisine #Japan Travel #Japan Good Places #Japanese Food #Japan Hotels #Japan Travel Strategy #hkfoodblogger #Good place to take pictures

Beauty Forest is a forest in the Matsunoyama area of ​​Tokamachi, southern Niigata Prefecture 🤣 is the rich natural beauty here😬 If it comes to December you can still wear snowshoes here for a walk 🚶🏻 So many people spend a little 🤏🏻 time here to enjoy the beautiful scenery when they come to Niigata This is even more selected as the 100 choices of fantastic field scenery in Japan 👍🏻 is definitely a representative landmark of Matsunoyama ❤️❤️❤️ If you want to go to Tokamachi Beauty Forest is actually quite convenient 🤣 We are taking the North Vietnam Express North North Line to Matsushiro Station and then change the bus to Matsueyama Onsen🚌 is about 15 minutes in front of Matsunoyama High School get off and walk 20 minutes to see such a place 😁 The beauty forest grows beech 😎 The age of the trees is about 90 years If it is autumn, there will be many people to see the yellow leaves 🍂 to winter will be covered by white snow 🫶🏻🫶🏻 really very attractive If you will stay nearby for a day hot spring ♨️ hotel 🏨 then you can definitely take a half day here #Japan Attractions #Holiday Good Places #Christmas Good Places 2022 #Hong Kong Good Places #Summer Good Places #Overseas Travel #Resident Writer #Japan #Japanese Cuisine #Japan Good Places #Japan Travel Guide #Japan Travel

When traveling to Xinxi, there is a flower grassland here that is very special. There is actually a blue glass house where you can take pictures of reflections The point is that I really enjoy it here and the air is really good. Located halfway up the mountain and very comfortable The surrounding area is full of flowers, plants and trees, making people feel closer to nature. I absolutely fell in love with this place. It is definitely one of the must-visit attractions for new travellers. #niigata #japan

The most special thing about my trip to Niigata is that I actually visited an elementary school The specialty library here is an abandoned elementary school But now it has become a super cool attraction It has basically become a museum and it is worth visiting and taking photos. There are various artistically designed buildings and styles as well as carved products. You can also DIY some special souvenirs to take home. It is definitely a private secret place worth visiting. #日本 #NIIGATA #secretland

Railway stations in every place can always express the characteristics of the place. The first place I went to when I came here was the station. The very distinctive triangular church design is really cool. It’s worth taking photos, watching and playing. There is also a super beautiful railway track where you can take photos. It is definitely one of the must-visit places for everyone online. There are also special buildings next to it, which is very interesting. I can’t stop taking photos. It’s a great feeling. It’s super interesting. There is such a unique station in the countryside. It is definitely one of the cool stations worth getting off and strolling around. #日本 #niigata #railway station

The hotel I stayed at during this trip was the Kaho Hotel in Niigata. It was very high-end and full of Japanese-style architecture. Even the food was delicious. However, it was located in the rice fields and was very rural with nothing around. The function is relatively poor, but because of this, I feel more strongly about Japanese-style restaurants. I really like the style here. The room is large and can basically sleep four to six people without any problem. Plus the night market tatami mats, so you can just rest on the floor. The food is also delicious. It is one of the highly recommended hotels in Niigata. If you have the opportunity to travel to the stars, you must spend money to stay here. Although it is not cheap, it is really worth it. #日本 #NIIGATA #hotel 

Address: 949-8433 Koide, Tokamachi City, Niigata Prefecture Content: A must-see spot for any trip to Niigata Kiyotsu Gorge: The reflection of people on the water's surface was a truly beautiful sight! Please come and visit us 🌲🌲 #Outdoors#Prefectural Residents Discount

A gondola in Echigo Yuzawa, Niigata Prefecture, commonly known as the Dragondora. It was named after Yumi Matsutoya because it looks like a dragon's back. It's no surprise, as it's over 5 kilometers long. You can also see autumn leaves from late October to November. It's only in operation for a limited time, so hurry! #autumn leaves #mountain climbing #Naeba Mountain

The reinforced concrete building and torii gate are huge! It is a religious corporation that does not belong to the Shinto Shrine Association, so the atmosphere is different from that of ordinary shrines. I felt some kind of strong power! It is a historic shrine that dates back to the Jomon period. The photo shows the annual Shinko Festival. The fires are gradually lit, and tens of thousands of candles are lit just before midnight. First, worship at the Okumiya Shrine, then buy a pair of candles, write your wish on the candle, light it, and leave it. By the way, the candles cost 2,000 yen. #JapanGenkiProject2021 #SummerShortTrip #SummerResortYouWantToKeepItSecret #AmazingNature#BreathtakingView

Kiyotsu Gorge, one of Japan's three great canyons It's tucked away in the mountains of Niigata Prefecture, but it's always full of tourists! As you walk through the tunnel decorated with mysterious electric lights, you'll see a wonderful fusion of nature and art. At the end, there's a space filled with water, reflecting the canyon, creating a breathtaking view ^ ^ #JapanGenkiProject2021 #SummerShortTrip #SummerResortYouWantToKeepSecret #CoolTravelExperience

Niigata Station The largest passenger terminal station in Niigata City, it is served by six lines, including the Joetsu Shinkansen, Shinetsu Main Line, Ban'etsu West Line, Hakushin Line, Uetsu Main Line, and Echigo Line. You can see a variety of trains depending on the line. Around the station building, continuous grade separation of conventional lines and the surrounding development work associated with it are underway, and the temporary platforms 8 and 9 on the ground are a little away from the other conventional lines. #Train Trip #Summer Trip

Do you like mountain climbing? Echigo-Yuzawa is located in the Japan Alps, where mountain climbing is a favorite activity for tourists. It is only 70 minutes away from Tokyo. Tired? In the evening, you can enjoy local mountain food and soak in hot springs. #bucketlist

📍Hotel Korakuen 1286 Kumamori, Tsubame City, Niigata Prefecture, 959-0112 Please note that this is located on a roadside in the countryside, so you can only get there by car. I tried to walk there, but there was no sidewalk, so I hitchhiked. The exterior makes you think, is this a hotel...? Inside, there are nostalgic arcade games and toast vending machines, so if you didn't know about it, you probably wouldn't stay there. I was planning to stay for a short stay, but it was surprisingly famous and fully booked when I went there on the day 🈵 However, it's worth it just to experience the Showa retro atmosphere on the first floor, so I think it's best to enjoy it without being a nuisance and then quietly go home◎ #AbsolutelyFreeTravel

It's not crowded 😍 Hidden gem travel spot! I've compiled a list of recommended spots in Niigata 🥰 🛫 TOKIAIR 📍 Address: 5-10 Bandaijima, Chuo-ku, Niigata City (inside Niigata Airport)  ✨ Impressions: Regional airline debut! Went from Nagoya Centrair 😊 Lucky to get limited stickers and cookies ✌️ 🏨 ANA Crowne Plaza Hotel Niigata 📍 Address: 5-11-20 Bandai, Chuo-ku, Niigata City 950-0088  🚶♀️ Access: 10 minutes walk from Niigata Station Bandai Exit / 5-20 minutes by car or bus  ✨ Impressions: The room was modern and spacious! The breakfast buffet with local ingredients unique to Niigata Prefecture got me excited! 🍸 Sky Bar Lion D'or 📍 Address: 16F ANA Crowne Plaza Niigata, 5-11-20 Bandai, Chuo-ku, Niigata City   🚶♀️ Access: Approximately 7-10 minutes on foot from Niigata Station  ✨ Impressions: The lounge at ANA Crowne Plaza Niigata! You can enjoy adult time with a cocktail in hand while surrounded by blue light 🍹 The bubbly cocktail is so cute it's a shame to drink it (lol) 🍸 🌊 Pier Bandai 📍 Address: 2 Bandaijima, Chuo-ku, Niigata City, 950-0078  🚶♀️ Access: Bus or 15 minutes on foot from Niigata Station  ✨ Impressions: A must-visit spot when you come to Niigata! A huge market where seafood, vegetables, and sweets are gathered, a paradise for eating! It's fun to stroll while looking at the sea 🎉 ☕ BARREL COFFEE BAUM 📍 Address: 2-5 Bandaijima, Chuo-ku, Niigata City (inside Pier Bandai)  ✨ Impressions: Relax with freshly baked Baumkuchen and aromatic coffee. Feel the ocean breeze and feel soothed 😌 🛍️ Pikari Farm Market Otomi-san 📍 Address: 2-3 Bandaijima, Chuo-ku, Niigata City  🚶♀️ Access: Right next to Pier Bandai ✨ Impressions: A market lined with locally grown vegetables and fruits. Lots of rare agricultural products too! I took a bite of a huge strawberry🍓😋 🍣 Conveyor belt sushi restaurant Benkei Pier Bandai 📍 Address: 2-4 Bandaijima, Chuo-ku, Niigata City, 950-0078 (inside Pier Bandai)   🚶♀️ Access: 15 minutes walk from Niigata Station or 5 minutes by bus/car  ✨ Impressions: A wide selection of local fish delivered directly from Sado! We waited in line for about 30 minutes, but it was so delicious that we forgot about it! It's easy to enter at the counter or by yourself 🫶 🐟 Bandaijima Fresh Fish Center 📍 Address: 2-2 Bandaijima, Chuo-ku, Niigata City, 950-0078 (inside Pier Bandai)   🚶♀️ Access: 15 minutes walk from Niigata Station or take the bus to "Miyanoura Junior High School"  ✨ Impressions: Enjoy grilling your favorite fish while looking around the fish market! They also make sashimi on the spot! An experience-based spot with outstanding freshness 🐚 🍶 Minemura Brewery 📍 Address: Bandaijima area (details not disclosed) ✨ Impressions: A miso and soy sauce workshop where the craftsmanship shines! I tried the miso soft serve! It's quite addictive 😘 🍰 Kurasashiki Sweets 📍 Address: Around Pier Bandai (no detailed data) ✨ Comments: The sweets made with Japanese ingredients are not too sweet and delicious! You can eat them as takeout or in the restaurant! 🐟 Ebisu Tai 📍 Address: 1-3-3 Benten, Chuo-ku, Niigata City, Niigata Prefecture ✨ Comments: Right next to Niigata Station! A famous restaurant for seafood Japanese set meals. The shrimp, sea bream, and seasonal sashimi are plump! The local food is soothing ~ 🍸 UnBOURBON 📍 Address: 2F EAST SIDE, CoCoLo Niigata, 1-1-1 Hanazono, Chuo-ku, Niigata City, Niigata Prefecture ✨ Comments: A Bourbon specialty store! There were some limited items that you can only find here 🤭 🎁 HAPPYSHOP 📍 Address: 1-1-1 Hanazono, Chuo-ku, Niigata City, Niigata Prefecture ✨ Impressions: A Happy Turn specialty store! I bought too much for myself and my friends ✨✨ 🍘 Baka-uke STATION Niigata Senbei Kingdom 📍 Address: 1-1-1 Hanazono, Chuo-ku, Niigata City, Niigata Prefecture ✨ Impressions: Baka-uke croquettes are so delicious❗️I discovered a hidden Niigata specialty💓💓💓 ⸻ 💬 Reasons for recommendation Seafood, local gourmet food, culture, handmade experiences... there's plenty! Whether you're traveling alone or with friends, you'll be very satisfied with your trip to Niigata ✨ The whole city is tightly packed, so it's easy to sightsee, and when I went, it wasn't particularly crowded, so I was happy about that ✌️ #Niigata #NiigataTrip

The National Echigo Hillside Park, located in Nagaoka City, Niigata Prefecture, is a healing space surrounded by seasonal flowers and rich nature. Tulips in spring, roses in summer, cosmos in autumn, and snowy scenery in winter - every time you visit, you'll see a different side to the park🌸❄️ The park has wooden playground equipment, a water play area, an observation deck, and an experiential museum, so you can relax while interacting with nature. I also recommend having a picnic on the vast lawn or taking a break at the cafe🍃☕ I visited on a solo trip, and just taking a deep breath in the quiet forest made my heart feel lighter. It's also perfect for a stroll with your partner. Admission is 450 yen for adults and free for children, so it's a great spot for "absolutely free trips." Please try Echigo Hillside Park for a trip surrounded by nature and the beauty of the seasons. [Access] 📍About 40 minutes by bus from JR Shinetsu Main Line "Nagaoka Station" 📍Car: About 10 minutes from Kanetsu Expressway "Nagaoka IC" 📍Address: 1950-1 Mitsumata, Miyamoto Higashikata-cho, Nagaoka City, Niigata Prefecture 🕒Opening hours: 9:30-17:00 (varies depending on the season) 🎫Admission fee: 450 yen for adults / Free for junior high school students and younger / 210 yen for those 65 and older 🚗Parking: 320 yen for regular cars (about 1,000 spaces) Domestic travel #Couple travel #Solo travel #Absolutely free travel #Echigo Hillside Park #Niigata sightseeing #Seasonal flowers #Nature walk #Relaxing holiday

A place to talk to the sea. A quiet impression you will encounter at Umi-gatari 🐬 The Joetsu City Aquarium Umi-gatari, located on the seaside of Joetsu City, is an open-air aquarium that is one with the Sea of ​​Japan. There are plenty of attractions, such as the largest number of Magellanic penguins in Japan and a stadium where you can enjoy dolphin jumping 🐧 In particular, the underwater tunnel called the Umi-gatari Tube offers a fantastic experience of walking in the sea 🌊 The museum is spacious, and there is a space where you can quietly face the creatures. I visited on a solo trip, and the penguins' movements and the dolphins' performance soothed my heart. It is also perfect for a relaxing time with your partner. Free parking and access from a station within walking distance make it a great place for an "absolutely free trip". Please experience a trip to touch the stories of the sea and creatures at this place. [Access] 📍About 15 minutes walk from JR Shinetsu Main Line/Echigo Tokimeki Railway "Naoetsu Station" 📍Car: About 15 minutes from "Joetsu IC" on the Hokuriku Expressway 📍Address: 2-15-15 Gochi, Joetsu City, Niigata Prefecture 🕒Opening hours: 10:00-17:00 (varies depending on the season) 🎫Admission fee: 1,800 yen for adults/900 yen for elementary and junior high school students/free for infants 🚗Parking: Free (about 580 spaces) Domestic travel #Couple travel #Solo travel #Absolutely free travel #Umi-gatari #Joetsu City Aquarium Museum #Niigata sightseeing #Penguins #Dolphin show

Surrounded by the sea and sky of Sado. Experience the spectacular views and tranquility at Senkaku Bay Ageshima Amusement Park 🌊 Located on the west coast of Sado Island, Senkaku Bay Ageshima Amusement Park is a spectacular spot with cliffs reminiscent of Nordic fjords and blue seas. From the observation deck, you can see the majestic scenery of Senkaku Bay, which has been selected as one of the 100 best beaches in Japan, and you will be surrounded by a tranquility that will cleanse your soul 🌿 On the underwater see-through boat (paid), you can tour the bay while feeling the crystal clear sea up close, and experience the mystery of the sea 🛥️ The facility also has the renovated Ageshima Sea Digital Museum, a cafe and a shop, and is a space where you can relax. I visited on a solo trip, but I felt like my mind was loosened by the expanse of the sea and sky. It is also perfect for couples to take a stroll around the spectacular views. There is an admission fee, but the scenery and experience are well worth it. If you're traveling to experience the natural beauty of Sado, this is the place to do so. [Access] 📍About 60 minutes by car from Ryotsu Port 📍Bus: 1 minute walk from Kaifu Line "Senkakuwan Ageshima Yuen" (Reservation required on weekends and holidays) 📍Address: 1561 Kitateki, Sado City, Niigata Prefecture 🕒Opening hours: 8:30-17:30 (varies depending on the season) / Open all year round 🎫Admission fee: 500 yen for adults / 300 yen for children 🛥️Underwater observation boat: 1,200 yen for adults / 800 yen for children (separate admission fee) #Couple trip #Solo trip #Absolutely free trip #Senkakuwan Ageshima Yuen #Sado sightseeing #Underwater observation boat #Beautiful spot #Relaxing trip

Surrounded by vineyards. An elegant holiday at Curved'tch Winery 🍷 Located on the seaside of Kakutahama in Nishikan Ward, Niigata City, Curved'tch Winery is a space that feels like a European wine village. Surrounded by vast vineyards, the site is equipped with a wine cellar, restaurant, bakery, spa, and accommodation, making it a winery where you can enjoy with all five senses 🌿 The wine made from locally grown grapes is delicate and fragrant, and pairs perfectly with food. At the Firewood Shed Restaurant, the homemade sausages and bacon are popular and go perfectly with wine 🍽️ Seasonal events and harvest festivals are also held, and there are new discoveries every time you visit. I visited on a solo trip, but the time spent tasting wine in a quiet space was a healing moment that relaxed my mind. It's also perfect for an anniversary trip for couples. There is also a free shuttle bus, so it's easy to access for "absolutely free trips" 🚐 Why not carve out the memories of a special trip in this place where Niigata's nature and culture blend together? 【Access】 📍Car: Approximately 20 minutes from Makigata Higashi IC on the Hokuriku Expressway 📍Train: Approximately 20 minutes by taxi from Uchino Station on the JR Echigo Line (free shuttle bus available, reservation required) 📍Address: 1661 Kakutahama, Nishikan Ward, Niigata City, Niigata Prefecture 🕒Opening hours: Winery 10:00~ / Restaurant 11:30~19:30 (last order) / Open all year round Domestic travel #Couple travel #Solo travel #Absolutely free travel #Cave D'Occhi Winery #Niigata gourmet #Wine trip #Relaxing holiday #Stay-type winery

Tsukioka Onsen, located in Shibata City, Niigata Prefecture, is a historic hot spring resort that opened in 1915. The emerald green water, which boasts one of the highest sulfur contents in the country, is popular among women as a hot spring that will make you more beautiful✨ The weak alkaline water is gentle on the skin, and you can feel a moisturized feeling after bathing. The hot spring town is also attractive for strolling, with places such as "Gensen no Mori" where you can enjoy hand baths and drinking the spring water, and "Tsukiakari no Niwa" where the Japanese umbrellas are beautifully lit up🌙 It is also perfect for making travel memories, such as experiencing hand-baking rice crackers and tasting local sake. I visited on a solo trip, and was soothed by the feeling of my mind relaxing while soaking in the hot spring. It is also perfect for a relaxing time with a couple. You can enjoy foot baths and walking around the town for free, so it is also recommended as an "absolutely free trip". Tsukioka Onsen is sure to meet the needs of those who are looking for beauty and healing. [Access] 📍About 5 minutes by bus from Tsukioka Station on the JR Hakushin Line 📍About 30 minutes by car from Yasuda IC on the Ban'etsu Expressway 📍About 20 minutes by car from Toyosaka Niigata Higashiko IC on the Japan Sea Tohoku Expressway 📍Address: Tsukioka Onsen, Shibata City, Niigata Prefecture Domestic travel #Couple travel #Solo travel #Absolutely free travel #Tsukioka Onsen #Beauty baths #Niigata sightseeing #Relaxing trip #Walking around the hot spring town

A forest surrounded by tranquility and beauty. A moment to relax in Bijinrin 🌳 "Bijinrin" in Tokamachi City, Niigata Prefecture is a fantastical forest where beech trees about 100 years old stand in orderly rows. As the name suggests, the slender trees are beautiful, and the expressions of the four seasons soothe the hearts of those who visit 🍃 The fresh greenery of spring, the autumn leaves, and the snowy scenery of winter - every season is like a painting, making it a popular spot for photography enthusiasts 📷 There is also a small pond in the forest, and the way the trees are reflected on the water surface is like a mirror world painted by nature. I visited on a solo trip, and just taking a deep breath in the quiet forest made my heart feel lighter. It is also perfect for a leisurely stroll with your partner. Since admission is free, it is also recommended as an "absolutely free trip". If you want to surrender yourself to the beauty of nature, please try this forest. [Access] 📍Car: About 50 minutes from Echigo Kawaguchi IC or Shiozawa Ishiuchi IC on the Kanetsu Expressway 📍Train: Joetsu Shinkansen "Echigo Yuzawa Station" → Hokuhoku Line "Matsudai Station" → About 15 minutes by taxi 📍Bus: Tokubi Bus "To Matsunoyama Onsen" → Get off at "Sakaimatsu Bus Stop" and walk for about 20 minutes (except in winter) 📍Address: Near 1712-2 Matsunoyama Matsuguchi, Tokamachi City, Niigata Prefecture 🕒Opening hours: Open 24 hours (traffic restrictions apply depending on the season) Domestic travel #Couple travel #Solo travel #Absolutely free travel #Beautiful forest #Niigata spectacular view #Beech forest #Healing forest #Seasonal scenery