Kaetsu Region
Facing the Sea of Japan to the west, Niigata Prefecture’s Kaetsu Region is blessed with an abundance of seafood, including crabs, squid, and various types of fish, caught daily by local fishermen and served fresh throughout the area. Home to the prefectural capital of Niigata City, don’t leave without at least a cup of locally crafted sake, as the brew is the pride of the region!
To the west lies the Echigo Mountains, a winter sports wonderland during the colder months, and the north borders Yamagata Prefecture. Kaetsu has long been the gateway to Tohoku as marine and land train routes have linked Niigata to the north, and the people of Yamagata and Niigata continue to be closely connected through trade and cultural exchange.
For the adventurer, this is the perfect place to start on your journey north through Tohoku.
Niigata City
The capital of Niigata Prefecture, this vibrant city is just two hours from Tokyo by bullet train, the perfect gateway to Tohoku.
Known for its delicious seafood, sake breweries, and picturesque views of the Sea of Japan, Niigata offers activities for every age and interest. Explore the famous Niigata City Aquarium Marinepia Nihonkai, where you can learn about Niigata marine life and ocean conservation, or sample some seafood and sake while basking in the rich atmosphere of Niigata’s historic Furumachi district.
Yahiko
Hidden among a beautiful cascade of mountains, the charming village of Yahiko is home to one of Niigata’s most sacred shrines.
Located at the base of Mt. Yahiko is Yahiko Shrine, an ancient shinto shrine appearing in the 8th century Man’yoshu, the oldest extant collection of Japanese poetry. Emanating a mystical aura, it is beloved by locals and visitors alike as the most spiritual location in Niigata. Near the shrine sprawls the distinctly Japanese-style Yahiko Park, filled with waterfalls, streams, bridges, and tunnels waiting to be explored.
Shibata
Looking for easily accessible rural Japanese charm? Look no further than Shibata city!
From castles to centuries-old gardens, hot springs to sake breweries, Shibata has it all. Visit the exquisite Shimizu-en Garden, a traditional Japanese garden built in the 1600s by the powerful ruling Mizoguchi clan and now designated as a National Site of Scenic Beauty. Or visit the renowned Tsukioka Onsen, a hot spring with one of the highest concentrations of sulfur in Japan – known as the “beautifying spring!”
Tsubame
Part of the Tsubame-Sanjo metalworking area, Tsubame city is the perfect destination for visitors interested in traditional Japanese crafts.
Shaped by its long-standing metalworking industry that dates back to the Edo Period (1603-1868), the city produces high-quality cutlery and tableware renowned for their superb craftsmanship. Don’t miss the unique chance to learn in-depth about the city’s traditional metalworking techniques and rich industrial heritage at the Tsubame Industrial Materials Museum and the Tojiro Knife Gallery!
Murakami
Located at the northern tip of Niigata on the coast of the Sea of Japan, this lively little city boasts a rich history and delicious seafood.
Murakami is especially famous for its fresh salmon dishes – of which it is said there are over 100 unique recipes. The salmon are caught as they return from the ocean to the local rivers, and visitors can watch traditional riverboat fishing from October to November. Once a bustling samurai castle town, Murakami also has several majestic samurai residences and historic townhouses available to tour within the city.
Sekikawa
The Arakawa River, said to be one of the most beautiful rivers in Japan, meanders through the heart of this peaceful little village.
Along the banks of the river lie the five onsen that make up the Echigo Sekikawa Hot Spring Area. Visit a historic inn or local café to sample hometown specialties such as freshly foraged mountain vegetables, mushrooms, and river fish dishes. Especially popular is Takanosu Onsen, only accessible by crossing a rope suspension bridge streched over the Arakawa to reach the enchanting traditional inn waiting on the other side.
Tainai
A “city of living nature” , the city of Tainai thrives on agriculture, including the cultivation of flowers and fruit trees.
Take a stroll through colorful field of tulips during the annual Tainai Tulip Festival in the spring, or visit a local farm in the fall to pick rare Tainai Tano Red and Tano Black grapes – known as the “mythical grape” for their popularity and how fast they sell out each year. For some peace and relaxation, filled with national treasures, don’t miss the historic Oppo-ji Temple complex to pray for the tranquility of the area.
Seiro
A charming coastal town beloved by its inhabitants, Seiro’s motto is “I’m glad I was born here, I’m glad I live here.”
Vist the beach when the weather is warm to enjoy a sweeping view of the Sea of Japan and a dip in the ocean, or enjoy a relaxing soak in any of the local hot springs – known for their high salt content and skincare benefits. The fruit harvest season begins in early summer and lasts through fall, and visitors can enjoy picking and eating fresh pears, cherries, grapes, and other delicious fruit at local orchards.
Agano
A city deeply connected with the land it draws its livelihood from, Agano is two-thirds lush forest and mountains and one-third farmland.
The birthplace of the Niigata dairy industry, Agano city draws crowds from far and wide to sample the extremely high quality milk and even rich raw milk soft serve ice cream – the perfect treat after an adventure-filled day! Another popular activity available year-round is cruising down the Agano River. Take a trip into the past through the traditional songs and stories of the local guide as you take in the ever-changing scenery.
Gosen
Ancient Zen temples, emerald green hot springs, and carpets of flower fields, Gosen is a city sure to enchant all who visit.
Most famous for its annual tulip festival, you can also find rhododendrons, peonies, and of course, cherry blossoms in the spring. Walk the tranquil path lined by centuries-old cedar trees to Jikoji temple, located at the foot of holy Mt. Hakusan, or perhaps visit the local Sakihana (blooming flower) hot springs, famous for their high sulfur content and skin-beautifying properties.
Aga
This town’s motto is “journey through a daydream in Aga”, and you can do just that in this mystical town.
While small in terms of population, Aga is the third largest municipality by size in Niigata – full of endless new things to discover. Local Mt. Kirinzan is the birthplace of the legend of the foxfire lights. In the old days, when many foxes lived on the mountains, it is said that they would travel at night by breathing orbs of fire to light their way. You can still feel the ancient magical atmosphere emanating from the area to this day.
