Tour Niigata

In the 1800s, Niigata thrived as a port city. Ships from Russia, China, England, and all over the world came here to trade. Niigata citizens led lucrative lives making their living by shipping cargo and selling local products (mainly agricultural). The city was flooded with sailors from all over the world, allowing Niigata to blend and change with their influence. Join us on a historical walking tour through the old port town Niigata, where we will explore the unique harmony of Western and Japanese cultures that developed in Niigata in the 1800s.

This value-packed trip with a government-licensed and experienced multilingual tour guide is a fantastic and efficient way to explore Niigata! 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.

Visit the Snow Monkeys of Jigokudani, named after the plumes of steam shooting out of the ground. Not as scary as it sounds, however, it is a truly memorable experience safe for all ages. After visiting the Monkeys we offer you an exclusive look into the historic Onsen Village of Shibu. This village was frequented by Samurai, poets, and travellers alike. Good fortune is said to come to those who bathe in each of the Onsens in town. This village is a picture from the past. As you stroll through the narrow streets lined with traditional buildings, some hundreds of years old, you might just get to see some more wild monkeys as they try to scavenge food! If you would rather relax than walk around the town, you can take a bath in the onsen for only ¥800! Our professional, experienced, English-speaking staff can offer the bilingual service that ensures peace of mind and an unforgettable day tour to your already memorable holiday here in Japan!

ryugon is located at the foot of Mt. Sakado, and the Uono River, which runs right next to it, is a natural environment where you can see ayu fishing in summer. Please enjoy walking and cycling in the rural landscape that changes from spring to autumn. Located a little farther away, "Undo-an" is a famous temple that has been around since the Muromachi period and is suitable for calming and spending time.

Step into a traditional Japanese shrine, a rare experience even for locals. Immerse yourself in crafting a beautiful windchime, a tangible reminder of your journey. This glass bell captures Japanese craftsmanship and resonates with memories of your adventure. Take it home, let its melodious chime echo your unforgettable Japanese escapade.

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.

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.

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 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.

This value-packed trip with a government-licensed guide and private vehicle is a fantastic and efficient way to explore Sado Island from Niigata City! Sado Island is well known as the “island of exile” or the “island of gold” for being deeply connected with historical figures, tradition, and ancient culture. It’s one of the largest Japanese islands, located 32km off the coast of the Niigata Prefecture. Even with so much to offer its visitors, it remains one of Japan’s best off-the-beaten-path destinations. Note*1: Please select your must-see spots from a list in the tour information to create your customized itinerary. Note*2: National Government Licensed Guide Interpreter certification is issued by the Japanese government requires a good knowledge and understanding of Japanese culture and history.

Walking along the 400-year-old lined cedar trees and walking on the frozen lake experience are special experiences that can only be found here. Let's explore the winter of Togakushi, where mountain ascetic have been practicing the mountain worship since ancient times. The experience of walking along a row of 400-year-old cedar trees and a frozen lake is a special experience that cannot be found anywhere else. Let's explore the winter of Togakushi, where the trainees have practiced rigorously since ancient times, wearing snowshoes!

Niigata is one of the leading centers of food culture in Japan.​ While walking through charming avenues, you can feel the atmosphere of old port town and taste many delicious Japanese dishes. Emersed yourself in history as you walk through the Furumachi district of Niigata, which renowned as much as Gion in Kyoto and Shinbashi in Tokyo for it’s Geisha. ​ You can not only enjoy the delicious Japanese food, but also interact with locals! Meeting Niigata residents is an experience you are unlikely to quickly forget. ​ As you stroll through the streets, go into any restaurant that strikes your fancy! Your local guide will make restaurant recommendations and help you order in traditional Japanese restaurants.​ ・You can enjoy wonderful food and local sake of Niigata.（Beer, wine, and alcoholic/Non-alcoholic beverage are also available.）​ ・As you move between Japanese pubs, experience the charming Niigata streets. ​ ・If you are lucky, you may event pass a Geisha!

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 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.

This private and customizable tour for Niigata is perfect for guests who would like to have their own itinerary planned based on their interests and preferences, allowing guests to experience the city at their own pace.

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 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.

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.

On this guided tour, you are visiting the primitive forest in Myoko-Togakushi renzan National Park. The guide is a national licensed English translator guide as well as a licensed trekking guide. You will learn a lot about the history, nature, and the local culture of north Nagano. After the snow melt in late April, lots kind of flowers ( so called spring ephemeral) start to bloom on the ground of the forest. In July to August, it's the best place for avoiding the summer heat, and in fall, the leaves change its color to the gorgeous autumn colors. The forest in here are mostly the mix of beech, oak, and many other broadleaf trees. Some of those trees are more than 400 years old.. In the forest, you may also find a charcoal kiln or a small shinto shrine from olden times. Even in this deep mountainous area, people used to live and use the forest for their lives since ancient times. Let's explore the north Nagano's hidden gem together.

This private and customizable tour for Niigata is perfect for guests who would like to have their own itinerary planned based on their interests and preferences, allowing guests to experience the city at their 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.

This is a program which introduces a deep understanding of "Japan" through "rice" in Kashiwazaki, Niigata Prefecture. Participants will stay in an old minka (traditional Japanese house) with a kayabuki roof (shingled roof), watch cooking rice in a kamado (a traditional Japanese cooking pot), with a master of rice, and experience seasonal agricultural activities. Visitors can also enjoy some "experiences related with rice" such as Futomaki Sushi making experience with a local chef, and a visit to an award-winning sake brewery. This tour also includes visit in a beautiful historical residence of major landowner of this area, where the emperor Showa stayed during his visit to Niigata prefecture. On the second day, you will enjoy a full-course rice dinner that is specially created for this tour. The program offers real country life and warm interaction with locals that will make an unforgettable experience.

Iguriami fishing in Murakami City, Niigata Prefecture. This traditional fishing method has been handed down since the Edo period (1603-1868) and is still practiced today. The fishing is limited to the months of October and November, when the salmon return to the mouth of the Miomotegawa River, which is only 50 km long from its source to its mouth and flows into the Sea of Japan. The characteristic of the fishing method is a traditional fishing method that can only be seen here: “Three boats called 'kosawari-bune' are carried on the river current, and one boat strikes the surface of the water with a pole and drives the salmon into a net stretched between the two boats. When the fishing season is over in December, you can see Murakami's “salted salmon,” made with only salmon and salt, under the eaves of houses. Visitors can experience Japanese traditions by observing iguriami fishing, which can be seen only in Murakami City, and listening to the fishermen's stories.