Traveling in Niigata
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From earliest to latest, follow the blooming flowers of cherry blossom 2020
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- The country’s iconic flower, cherry blossoms,familiarly known as sakura, returns to announce the arrival of Spring 2020. Within few weeks between mid March to early April, starting from around Tokyo then down towards Kyushu region (South)and finally making it on its way up to Hokkaido (North), the country will be covered by flushes of pink. In this article, you will be able to see the destinations of the recommended places to see cherry blossoms as they bloom according to the forecast. ― 2020 Japan Cherry Blossom Forecast 2020 Japan Cherry Blossom Forecast Tokyo is expected to be the first place to see cherry blossom bloom starting around March 21st. Due to mild winter, southern part of Kyushu is expected to bloom later compared to previous years. It will reach its peak bloom within a week or so from its first appearance. If you are planning to travel during this beautiful season make sure to keep an eye on the latest forecast as it may change from time to time. Earth communication provider 1. Meguro River (Tokyo) Meguro River (Tokyo) With cherry blossom trees lining its banks, the Meguro River is one of Tokyo’s most popular cherry blossom viewing destinations. Around 800 trees extend almost four kilometers along the river, making it the perfect place to stroll, shop or relax at one of the many cafes. A cherry blossom festival coincides with the full bloom, although the end of the season when the petals are falling into the river is also magical. The Meguro River is 10 minutes’ walk from the Meguro Station or five minutes from the Nakameguro subway station. If you want to avoid traffic, there are less food stall near Meguro station so it is better to walk from there. Between Meguro station and Ikejiri-Ohashi station, there are food stalls and the cherry blossom trees in the evening are beautifully lighted up.Best time to visit: late March to early April 2. Ueno Imperial Gift Park (Tokyo) Ueno Imperial Gift Park (Tokyo) One of Japan’s oldest public parks, Ueno Park is home to around 1,200 cherry blossom trees and is the top cherry blossom viewing spot in the country. People come to lay out mats beneath the trees, enjoy a picnic and drink sake while admiring the stunning blooms. It’s easily accessed from Ueno Station and situated just across the street from the Park Exit. Best time to visit: around late MarchAnnual turnout: approximately 4 million people 3. Yoyogi Park (Tokyo) Yoyogi Park (Tokyo) An oasis in the city, Yoyogi Park is one of the largest urban parks in Tokyo and a popular hanami destination. Around 700 cherry trees are planted in the park, with people arriving early in the morning during the cherry blossom season to reserve a picnic spot beneath the trees and relax with family and friends. It’s just five minutes’ walk from Harajuku Station. Best time to visit: late March to early April 4. Chidorigafuchi (Tokyo) Chidorigafuchi (Tokyo) Chidorigafuchi is a moat outside the Imperial Palace that’s ignited by a 700-meter-long tunnel of cherry blossom trees during the spring. Their pink hues beautifully reflect on the moat’s waters, making it a popular place for people to stroll during the Chiyoda Sakura Festival and magical when illuminated at night. Chidorigafuchi is a five-minute walk from either Kudanshita or Hanzomon stationsDepending on the blooming dates, Chiyoda Sakura Festival starting dates change. It is expected to be around between March 25th to April 5th, but is best to keep an eye on its official webpage for precise dates. Best time to visit: late MarchAnnual turnout: approximately 1.28 million people 5. Shinjuku Gyoen (Tokyo) Shinjuku Gyoen (Tokyo) Sprawling across 58 hectares, Shinjuku Gyoen is a famous garden and green oasis in the heart of Shinjuku. It’s planted with around 1,000 cherry trees in numerous varieties, meaning you can see blossoms either early or late in the season. Aside from its traditional Japanese garden, Shinjuku Gyoen is also home to a former French garden and an English landscaped garden with lawns that are ideal for picnicking. Shinjuku Gyoen is just 10 minutes’ walk from Shinjuku Station’s South Exit or five minutes from Shinjuku-Sanchome Station. Best time to visit: around 20 March to early AprilAnnual turnout: approximately 1.2 million people 6. Inokashira Park (Tokyo) Inokashira Park (Tokyo) Situated in the Kichijoji area of western Tokyo, Inokashira Park is home to around 500 cherry trees, many of which are planted around its central pond. Some of the varieties are late blooming, with the fallen petals turning the waters a beautiful pink color. You can rent a boat and paddle across the pond or see the cherry blossoms illuminated at night. The park is a five-minute walk from Kichijoji Station. Best time to visit: late March to early AprilAnnual turnout: approximately 660,000 people 7. Mitsuike Park (Kanagawa) Mitsuike Park (Kanagawa) Centered around three ponds and a Korean Garden, Mitsuike Park sprawls across 30 hectares in Yokohama. Its home to 1,600 cherry trees of 78 different species that break out in blossoms during the spring, with the first trees to bloom being the kanzakura. The park is a 20-minute taxi ride from Yokohama Station. Note of caution, the cherry blossom trees are not lighted up so it is best to go during day time. Best time to visit: around 24 March to early AprilAnnual turnout: approximately 700,000 people 8. Maizuru Park (Fukuoka) Maizuru Park (Fukuoka) Situated in the heart of Fukuoka City, Maizuru Park is home to the ruins of Fukuoka Castle and around 1,000 cherry trees that bloom each spring. The occasion is marked by the Fukuoka Castle Sakura Festival when food stalls and shops set up in the park and the cherry trees are illuminated against the old castle walls at night. Maizuru Park is a five-minute walk from Akasaka or Ohori Park stationsBest time to visit: late March to early April 9. Okazaki Park (Aichi) Okazaki Park (Aichi) Home to the castle where Tokugawa Ieyasu was born, Okazaki Park features around 800 cherry blossom trees that line the Oto and Iga rivers. During the annual Sakura Festival, numerous food and drink vendors set up to create a bustling atmosphere. The cherry blossoms are illuminated by lanterns and, together with the white Okazaki Castle Tower, create a magnificent scene. The park is around 10 minutes’ walk from Higashi-Okazaki Station. The annual Sakura Festival is expected to be between March 27th to April 10th and may change depending on the blooming dates. During the festival, there will be food stalls and the cherry blossom trees will be lighted up during night times.Best time to visit: late MarchAnnual turnout: approximately 600,000 people ©NAVITIME JAPAN. Travel Info Check out our travel tips to make your trip better!
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- Japan
- 31. January. 2020
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2020 February Best Events in Japan
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- While the temperatures are still quite cold, February is an appealing season in Japan as the winter chill slowly releases with the onset of spring’s warmth. To help you plan a travel itinerary during February, we’ve put together a short guide to the unique events that will be taking place across the country. Setsubun and Ehomaki (節分と恵方巻) Setsubun and Ehomaki The day before spring arrives is marked throughout Japan by Setsubun, which translates as “seasonal division”. This festival originated as a time to cleanse from the previous year and drive away evil spirits for the year ahead. A highlight of the festival is a ritual known as mamemaki or “bean scattering” when roasted soybeans are thrown out the door of a house or temple while saying “Oni wa soto! Fuku wa uchi!” (Demons out! Luck in!”) If you want to participate in this purification practice, head to Sensoji (Asakusa), Zojoji (Tokyo) or Naritasan Shinshoji (Chiba). Setsubun is also marked by the eating of Ehomaki sushi rolls, which are sold at convenience and department stores across the country. These long sushi rolls are filled with seven different ingredients to represent the seven gods of happiness (Shichifukujin) and should be eaten facing the year’s lucky direction. Zojoji Temple Ehomaki Hokkaido: Sapporo Snow Festival (さっぽろ雪まつり) Sapporo Snow Festival Held every year in February, the Sapporo Snow Festival is the largest of its kind in Japan and attracts more than two million visitors. The heart of all the action is Odori Park, which extends through the heart of Sapporo, with live music and gi-gantic ice sculptures that are beautifully illuminated at night. If you want to see the stunning ice and snow sculptures that have been entered into the festival’s official contest, head to the Susukino area, or enjoy the family-friendly snow slides and attractions set up in Tsudome. In 2020, the Sapporo Snow Festival will take place from February 4-11. Sapporo Snow Festival Sapporo Snow Festival Akita and Tochigi: Kamakura Festival (かまくら祭り) Yokote Kamakura Festival Famed for its igloo-like snow houses (known as “kamakura”), the Kamakura Festival dates back more than 400 years and in 2020 will be held in two locations. The Yokote Kamakura Festival (横手かまくら祭り) will be held in the southeast of Akita Prefecture while the Yunishigawa Onsen Kamakura Festival (湯西川温泉かまくら祭り) will ignite this charming onsen town in the mountains of Tochigi Prefecture. Countless small and large kamakura will be set up and illuminated by candles at night, transforming both locations into a magical winter wonderland. Aside from the kamakura, the event features a range of other activities, including snow rafting, kamakura making experiences and delicious local foods. The Yokote Kamakura Festival 2020 will take place on February 15 and 16 in the city of Yokote while the Yunishigawa Onsen Kamakura Festival 2020 will take place from 31 January to 1 March 2020. Yokote Kamakura Festival Yunishikawa Kamakura Festival Niigata: Echigo-Tsumari Art Field 2020 Winter SNOW ART (「大地の芸術祭」の里 越後妻有2020冬 SNOWART) Kyota Takahashi 「Gift for Frozen Village2018」Photo by Osamu Nakamura As the heavy snows descend in Niigata prefecture during winter, the Echigo-Tsumari region celebrates with their Snow Art festival. The main event is the Snow Fireworks / Gift for Frozen Village, which will illuminate the skies on February 29. Don’t miss a visit to the Echigo-Tsumari Satoyama Museum of Contemporary Art where a collection of snow-themed works will be displayed. The opportunity to try the unique festival meal of yukimigozen in village. Image of Snow Art Image of EXPO's Snow Play Plum season (梅の季節) Mito Plum Blossom Festival As Japan’s plum trees break out in blossoms, gardens across the country celebrate this explosion of color. But the most famous celebration is the Mito Plum Blossom Festival (水戸の梅まつり) of Kairaku-en in the city of Ibaraki Prefecture, Mito. Considered one of the Three Great Gardens of Japan, Kairaku-en was created during the Edo period and features around 100 different varieties of plum blossoms. During the festival, you can see around 3,000 trees in various hues of light pink while enjoying the fragrant perfumes. Aside from enjoying the plum blossoms and drinking powdered green tea, the festival will hold outdoor koto performances, guided nighttime walks and fireworks shows. The Mito Plum Blossom Festival 2020 will take place from late February to March 31.Read more:Mito Plum Blossom Festival 2020 Mito Plum Blossom Festival Rape Flower Blossoms Season Rape Flower Blossoms Season February is also marked by the blossoming of bright yellow rape flowers, which occur in various locations across Japan. One of the most famous spots is along the Isumi Railway in Chiba, forested landscapes and fields of rape flowers. Soak up the rural landscapes of the Boso Peninsula on a 26-kilometer-long journey between Ohara Station and Kazusa-Nakano, passing historic stations that date back to 1912. The scenery is a stark contrast to the high-tech streets and bustle of Tokyo and made only more beautiful by the yellow blanket of the season’s rape flower blossoms. Rape Flower Blossoms Season ©NAVITIME JAPAN. Travel Info Check out our travel tips to make your trip better!
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- Japan
- 23. January. 2020
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Sado - Inland Adventures of an Exile Culture
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- With an unusual culture of import and export, Sado is an island of relaxed towns, rich history and delicious food . Once an isolated island it soon became a hub of visiting ships, ready to transport the gold the island offered up and leave behind the mainland’s unwanted characters. Adopting the cultural immigrants, unwilling criminals and unfavorable creatives, the island has developed a unique heritage of unusual elements. From Kyoto-inspired temples to networks of mining tunnels, the fingerprints of history have left few corners unmarked. Sado is no museum though - the traditional homes have become community cinemas and the mining ruins are now haunting landscapes to be admired. A day spent in the North West of Sado is one filled with history, culture, and plenty of outdoor adventures. The Sado Kinzan Mine: The Island’s Underground Fortunes Reaching deep into the core of Sado, the Aikawa Gold and Silver Mine was the primary source of Sado’s ancient prosperity. As the most productive precious metal mine in Japan, the mine drew workers from across the country and allowed the local town and the island as a whole, to flourish. During the feudal era of Japan, veins of gold were discovered in the region, and the Tokugawa Shogunate left no time in placing the surrounding town of Aikawa under their control. Operations at the mine began at the dawn of the 17th century, with traditional opencast mining performed by hand until modern innovations were introduced. One of the most striking reminders of these early mining days is actually visible long before the mine’s entrance comes into sight. Hewn in two by the worker’s dedicated efforts, the doyu-no-wareto mountain serves as a looming reminder of the impact of man on the environment. Below ground, the mine’s history of development and growth are visible from the first few steps. Visitors can choose one of two paths - the Sodayu course displays the Edo-era mining skills while the neighboring Dohyu tunnel shows the Meiji-era developments in the industry. With two distinct chapters in the mine’s history, hand-carved tunnels and modern railways are equally fascinating, with models and robotic miners used to display the working conditions. Walking through the narrow tunnels and glancing into closed-off passages is an unnerving experience - the mine’s careful depiction of the worker’s lives is especially interesting. From the rest areas to religious ceremonies held to celebrate new veins, the mine melded with Japanese life in a multitude of ways. While much of the mine is below ground, as you may expect, there is plenty to see in the fresh air as well. Mining carts, storage areas and abandoned transport paths offer a chance to follow the extracted metals as they made their journey from the depths of the mine to the hands of the Shogunate. Closing its doors for good in 1989, the mine delivered around 78 tons of gold and over 2,300 tons of silver over the centuries. As a keystone of the island’s heritage, it has been carefully protected and in 2010 was added to the UNESCO list of tentative sites, with locals endeavoring to have the area approved to ensure its ongoing protection.Address: 〒952-1501 1305 Shimo Aikawa, Sado City, NiigataAccess: From Ryotsu Port you can catch the Honsen line bus to Aikawa and then catch the Nanaura Kaigan Line to Sado Kinzan bus stop. The journey takes approximately one hour and fifteen minutes by bus or forty-five minutes by car. Website: www.sado-kinzan.com/Hours: April - October: 8am - 5.30pm, November - March: 8.30am - 5pm. Admission: 900 yen (single tunnel), 1400 yen (two tunnels) 1600 -2400 yen (guided tours) The Former Aikawa Jail - A History of Exiles The perfect antidote to exploring dark tunnels, the walk to the small town of Aikawa is as refreshing as it is interesting. Following quiet streets, you’ll soon come across an unusual element of the town’s history hidden. Empty since its closure in 1972, the former Aikawa Jail was once home to prisoners and exiles of post-war Japan. Opened in 1954 as a branch of Niigata Prison, the prison is now open to the public, but is entirely unmanned. For those who don’t mind a little solo-exploration, the ivy-covered gates are left unlocked and the three buildings - an office, cooking space and holding block - have been left as they were. Behind heavy metal doors visitors can explore the small cells, complete with frayed tatami for the more important residents. Dusty bottles and long-forgotten scales are the only remaining inhabitants - with little information available on those who once resided here. Haunting at times but surprisingly peaceful, the prison is a nod to the long history of exiles on Sado. Difficult to reach and with harsh weather conditions, the island’s isolation made it the perfect place for those perceived to be troublemakers. Buddhist monk Nichiren, Noh dramatist Zeami Motokiyo and Emperor Juntoku were all banished here, lending the island a unique and rich history. As romantic as dethroned emperors and monks may sound, there was a darker side to the tradition of banishment. Criminals, creatives and ‘undesirables’ were also sent to work in the gold mine, with a memorial now in place to commemorate their fates. For those looking for more on Sado’s past, the island’s History Museum is located in Mano Shinmachi. Address: 24 Aikawa Shingoromachi, Sado, Niigata 952-1523Access: From Ryotsu Port you can catch the Honsen line bus to Aikawa and then catch the Nanaura Kaigan Line to Sado Hangamura bus stop. The journey takes approximately one hour and fifteen minutes by bus or forty-five minutes by car. Hours: Open during the day, but unmannedAdmission: Free Kyomachi, Aikawa - A Contemporary Take on an Ancient Street Stepping out of the cold confines of the now calm prison, the quiet streets are a welcome return to normality. Continuing along the road, you will find your way to the preserved Kyomachi street in Aikawa town. Once the district’s downtown area, the street connected the gold mine with the commissioner’s office and was a bustling hub for the community. While significantly quieter these days, it still is host to the annual Yoi-no-Mai dance parade held in June. Dotted with occasional locals on everyday errands, the street is now a well-preserved mix of tea houses, craft shops and even a community cinema located in the former home of the Gold Mine Captain. Narrow offshoots and alleys reflect the rapid and hap-hazard growth of the town during its rise in prosperity, with a few Edo-era relic still in place. Having previously relied on traditional taiko drummers to announce times, in 1712 a time-bell was cast and hung at the foot of Kyomachi. Perched on the corner of what was once the town’s court, the building is now a museum exhibiting works of Sado Hangamura (print art). The bell’s rings were silenced in 1871, but have recently been re-started by volunteers, announcing the arrival of both morning and evening. Alongside the unusual red-brick wall that borders the old courthouse, these reminders of Aikawa’s prosperous past are a pleasing sight. Maintaining but repurposing traditional buildings means the street avoid the open-air museum feel of many ancient towns Sengaku Bay Cycling Tour: A Breath of Fresh Air If you’re feeling the urge to brush away the cobwebs and prefer a more active exploration of the island, a short cycle tour of Sado’s shores could be in order. Perfect for an afternoon adventure from Aikawa, the Senkakuwan Bay ride is manageable for most, especially with the help of electric bikes. Formed by five small bays and stretching just 3km, the route is one of the island’s highlights, considered similar to coastlines of Norway. The area is surrounded by a marine park, ensuring the ecosystems and landscapes are protected from harm. While boat tours are also available, the cycle route allows you to burn off some energy and explore the coast up close. Stopping off at viewpoints and beaches along the way, you can admire the unusual formations of the coastline as well as spotting signs of the ancient mining trade. The trail will take you through rice fields and along roads, although thanks to island life there’s not much traffic to compete with. The final stop is the Sado Osaki Lighthouse - a great place to catch your breath and admire the bay before heading back to Aikawa. Bicycles are available for rent from Sado Tourism Association and cost 6,000 yen per person for a three hour trip from Kirariumu Sado and Senkaku Bay. Enquiries can be made here: www.www.sado-niigata.com Seisuji Temple and Daizen Shrine: Sado’s Adopted Cultures While many were sent to Sado unwillingly, there were also those who chose to visit, either as messengers, missionaries or simply to escape mainland life. Bringing with them traditions and culture from Honshu and beyond, these visitors contributed to the unique heritage of the island. A key example is the Sei-suji Temple. Located in the center of the island, it makes for a pleasant half-hour journey by car in-land from Aikawa, or a relaxed afternoon of cycling. Founded by Buddhist Missionary Ken’o Hoshi in 808, the temple’s design was inspired by Kyomizudera in Kyoto. Along with shared kanji and the familiar wooden balcony, both are spaces to worship the thousand-armed Kannon Bosatsu, the goddess of mercy. Now in disrepair, surrounded by cedar trees and rarely visited - the temple is a solemn but beautiful spot to visit. Address: 124-1 Niibo Ono, Sado, Niigata 952-0109Access: From Ryotsu Port the temple is a 30 minute drive by car. Sado’s Night Views: A Glimpse of the Past Clear skies and beautiful sunsets are par for the course on Sado, with an endless supply of stars to admire. For a more unusual evening display, however, the island’s industrial heritage is key. As the day ends, the Port Ruins of Oma are a fantastic place to watch the sun go down. Crumbling and abandoned, the towers form a unique landscape and serve as a strong reminder of Sado’s past. Later in the evening, the Kitazawa Flotation Plant offers an eerie display with evening illuminations. The layered flotation plant was the first to successfully use techniques usually reserved for copper on gold and silver. Now a designated Historical Site, the looming structures are an unusual sight - a reflection of a once-busy site, now left to return to nature. Access: From Ryotsu Port you can catch the Honsen line bus to Aikawa and alight at Aikawa hakubutsukan mae bus stop. The journey takes approximately one hour or forty minutes by car. Getting to Sado Leaving from Niigata Port, you can be on the shores of Sado in just over an hour. While the fastest option is the hydrofoil, this small but fast boat is often affected by the weather. If you are planning to take the Hydrofoil to or from the island, please check the weather information and schedules in advance here. For a more reliable and relaxed route, the Sado Kisen car ferry takes 2.5 hours from Niigata to Ryotsu Port and offers comfortable rest areas, viewing decks and the option to bring your own vehicle. With five return journeys a day, a ticket costs 2,420 yen each way for adults and half that for children in a 2nd-class cabin. Full suites are available as well as first class cabins, depending on your budget. Making the journey affordable as well as relaxing, the ferry is an ideal option for those looking to step into vacation mode as soon as possible.To reach Niigata Port from Tokyo, you can catch the bullet train from Tokyo Station to Niigata and catch a direct bus to the port - this journey takes just over two hours. To reach Niigata Port from Osaka you can fly from Itami Airport to Niigata and catch the direct bus to Niigata Port. Alternatively you can catch the bullet train from Osaka to Tokyo and then on to Niigata - this journey takes just under five hours. Website: sadokisen.co.jp/en Travel on Sado Island On the island, you can choose from car rental or public transport. For car options, Sado Island Tourism recommends Island Rent-A-Car, located near Ryotsu Ferry - although there are additional options available including Toyota, Sado Kisen Kanko and Nippon Rent-A-Car. You can view the approved options here. Alternatively, there are regular public buses running on the island, you can view the local map here and the timetables are available in English form the tourism office at each Port. There is an unlimited-ride bus pass available for 1,500 yen per day for adults. There are also two and three days passes available costing 2,500 yen and 3,000 yen respectively with reduced prices for children. These passes can be purchased at Niigata Kotsu Sado’s main office and the main offices in Ryotsu Port, Aikawa, Ogi and at the Sado Kisen information desks at Niigata and Naoetsu Ports. You can purchase a one-day bus pass when you board any regular bus in Sado but two and three-day passes must be purchased at one of the locations named above. ©NAVITIME JAPAN. Travel Info Check out our travel tips to make your trip better!
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- Niigata
- 26. December. 2019
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Snowshoeing in Myoko Kogen
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- Myoko Kogen provides some of the best powdery snow and slopes on the main Honshu island of Japan. The Myoko Kogen area only focuses on snow sports, with powderheads drifting to the region every winter due to the volume of snow. Everyone from children to retired folk, true beginners to budding professionals, are encouraged to take to the slopes. The area is best known for skiing and snowboarding; however, other snow sports are also offered. Snowshoeing is a popular activity for those who want to explore the backcountry and take things a little more slowly. A First time Snowshoeing Experience A First time Snowshoeing Experience Snowshoeing is a great way to get exercise and safely explore a new area of a mountain. Unlike board sports which are restricted to slopes, snowshoeing is more akin to hiking. There are three different courses for snowshoeing, ranging in difficulty. Each course takes about one and a half to two hours to complete, as long as participants follow the signposts. The signposts are bright, numbered and easy to follow. Maps can also be picked up in the information center. Learn History and Grab Gear at the Information Center Learn History and Grab Gear at the Information Center Learn History and Grab Gear at the Information Center The Myoko Kogen Visitor’s Center has everything one needs to begin snowshoeing. Myoko Kogen is a part of the Myoko Togakushi National Park, a thriving landscape known for its powdery snow, mountains, and volcanoes. The information center offers details on courses, rental gear, and guides. The topography and geology of the park is represented throughout the center through informative models and maps. Learn about the nature of the area and the best ways to stay safe during your snowshoeing journey. The information center offers rental snowshoes for 1,000 yen per day. Be aware that snowshoes and poles are the only available equipment to rent, so you will need to bring your own snow clothes, warmers, and food. Choose from a Beginner or Advanced Course Choose from a Beginner or Advanced Course There are three courses to choose from: the beginner Squirrel course, the intermediate Fox course, and the long and advanced Rabbit course. The Squirrel Course is flat and winds around a forest, making it the best choice for first-timers and children. The Fox Course crosses through a thicker forest with steeper inclines, making it difficult and a little intimidating for first timers. The course is named after Fox Pond, a small pond that the trail loops around towards the end. The Rabbit Course goes higher up Mt. Myoko and is an extended version of the Fox Course. The route goes uphill and gives excellent views on clear days. The trails are all self-guided and easy to follow. Guides are also available to help for 300 yen from the information center. Some Quick Tips Some Quick Tips Some Quick Tips The courses are free to enter, but be sure to double check the weather conditions and rules with the staff at the information center before departing. The courses are well marked but bear in mind that the area can receive a lot of snow throughout the day. First-time snowshoers should always bring a map and plenty of warm clothes to stay safe and comfortable. Seeing the biodiversity of Myoko Kogen is an advantage that snowshoeing has over skiing or snowboarding. All of the courses traverse through untamed forests, with more animals tending to come out deeper in the mountain, away from the board sport courses. Some Quick Tips ©NAVITIME JAPAN. Travel Info Check out our travel tips to make your trip better!
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- Niigata
- 7. March. 2019
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The Most Beautiful Gorges in Japan
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- Although most associated with the towering skyscrapers of Shinjuku, and the neon lights of Akihabara, make the effort to heard out of the city and you’ll realize Japan is home to superb pockets of untouched natural beauty. From the roaring waterfalls of Aomori up north to the inspiring beauty of southern Yakushima, here are some of the country’s most stunning gorges. Oirase Gorge Aomori Oirase Gorge Aomori Dotted with waterfalls, covered in lush foliage, and practically untouched by man, Oirase Gorge in Aomori Prefecture is generally considered done of Japan’s most beautiful river valleys. It’s an excellent place for a day out and about exploring. To minimize your impact on the land and to get an immersive view of the area, leave the car behind and take the journey either by foot on rental bike, available at the Oirase visitor center. There’s plenty to see along the way, but keep a lookout for the 25-meter high Kumoi-no-Taki Falls, and the Tamasudare-no-Taki Falls where the water that flows from Lake Towada is forced down the fall in spheres, creating a natural optical illusion. Once you're done be sure to stop off at Hoshino Resorts Oirase Keiryu to soak those tired muscles in hot spring water and treat yourself to tea and sweets. Kiyotsukyo Gorge Kiyotsukyo Gorge Tucked between the towering cliffs of Yuzawa in Niigata sits Kiyotsukyo Gorge. The sharp angles of the mountainsides come together to craft an almost perfect V formation. The cliff faces are separated by a roaring passageway of brilliant blue rapids and covered in a smattering of vibrant, green foliage, it’s a nature photographer’s dream. Look up close, and you’ll notice that the gorge’s texture is somewhat unique, it’s made from what’s called ‘columnar jointing’ a result of an underwater volcanic eruption that took place about 16 million years ago. To really take it all in, head over to one of the four viewing areas in the Kiyotsukyo Tunnel Museum for a better view. Shiratani Unsuikyo Shiratani Unsuikyo Yakushima’s Shiratani Unsuikyo Ravine is so beautiful it’s said to have inspired the iconic Studio Ghibli film Princess Mononoke. During the making of the film, the lead artist Kazuo Oga spent countless hours in the area, sketching tirelessly to recreate the scenery's unparalleled beauty. Although rather untouched by human construction, the gorge has some easy trails to follow, making it accessible for non-experienced hikers, but there are longer, more arduous paths, including around 10-hour journey for those looking for a challenge. Takachiho Gorge Takachiho Gorge Located in Miyazaki Prefecture, Takachiho Gorge is such a popular and important religious site that it attracts one million visitors annually. Ruggedly beautiful, the towering walls were formed from volcanic basalt columns, where roaring waterfalls cascade down the cliff faces into the river beneath. There are two main ways to witness the beauty of this landscape; via the paved path running high along the edge of the cliffs, or for a different perspective you can take a cruise down the river by boat. For something truly special, during the summer months, Takachiho Gorge is illuminated after dark offering incredible nighttime viewing. Geibikei Gorge Geibikei Gorge Sitting just outside Hiraizumi in Iwate Prefecture, is a peaceful lush foilage flanked gorge with calm waters and incredible views that transform with the passing seasons. Not to be confused with the nearby Genbikei Gorge, Geibikei Gorge is also home to Geibikei Gorge Boat Trip, a 90 minute cruise that allows visitors to really enjoy the landscape; fiery red in fall, creeping wisteria blossoms in May and crisp, clear skies in winter, it seems there’s no bad time of year in Iwate. If you’re worried about the cold winter days, don’t, because many of the cruise boats also serve Kinagashi Nabe, a hearty hot pot, miso soup based dish of meat, tofu, and other seasonal ingredients. ©NAVITIME JAPAN. Travel Info Check out our travel tips to make your trip better!
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- Japan
- 9. January. 2019
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Japan’s 5 Most Beautiful Rice Terraces
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- The terraced rice fields of Japan, are integral to the nation's cultural DNA. Carved into the foliage of the rugged mountainsides across the map, from the snow-capped mountains of Niigata to the islands of Nagasaki, they not only produce one of the country's most important foods but also have over centuries laid the foundation of the nation's landscape. Equal parts visually beautiful and historically significant, here are some of the best. Hirado Kasuga no Tanada, Nagasaki Prefecture Hirado Kasuga no Tanada, Nagasaki Prefecture Kasuga is a stunning agricultural village located along the west coast of Hirado, a smattering of scenic islands that make up part of Nagasaki Prefecture. Practically untouched by tourism, it’s a well-kept secret, one you’ll want to share, but only with those you know will respect its historical beauty and rich spiritual legacy. During the times of Portuguese trade, this area was predominantly home to communities of the hidden Christians of Nagasaki, which is why it’s still known as the “Holy Land of Hirado.” Constructed with a thorough understanding of the landscape and a deep appreciation for nature these picturesque terraced fields have remained the same for the past 400 years. To learn more about the site pop by the visitor center nearby. Hirado may not be the most accessible area of Japan, but once you get there, you’ll agree it’s worth the extra effort. Maruyama Senmaida, Mie Prefecture Maruyama Senmaida, Mie Prefecture Running layered up the mountainside west of Kumano city in Mie Prefecture sits Maruyama Senmaida, a stunning piece of man-made agricultural landscaping. The terrace was constructed over 400 years ago and has stood the test of time to remain one of the prefecture's most beautiful landscapes. Because of its unique shape, many of the small fields here vary in size quite wildly with some fields just a meter wide; this means they must be tended to rather painstakingly by hand. If you’re taking the hike along the Iseji Route of the Kumano Kodo Pilgrimage to Kumano Hongu-Taisha Shrine, keep a lookout for this magnificent view. Shiroyone Senmaida, Ishikawa Prefecture Shiroyone Senmaida, Ishikawa Prefecture With its rugged, untamed beauty, Noto peninsula in Ishikawa Prefecture is an excellent destination for those who want to experience a wilder side of Japan. With the sprawling Chirihama Beach and strange rock formations of the Kongo Coast there’s no shortage of natural attractions to admire. One place that should be atop your itinerary is Shiroyone Senmaida, the 1,000 rows of rice terraces that layer up from the sea to the roadside. Strategically positioned to soak up the ocean mist, these lush green fields are stunning all year round, but especially so in spring when the warm sunset reflects off the watersoaked fields casting a vibrant natural light show. Hamanoura Rice Terraces, Saga Prefecture Hamanoura Rice Terraces, Saga Prefecture Home to another stunning natural light show are the fields of Hamanoura rice terraces in Saga Prefecture. Flanked by valley walls, and facing out to the Genkai sea, these fields are tucked cozily between the neighboring mountains. It’s impressive any time of day, but especially so in the evening. As the sun sets over the ocean backdrop, it casts a purple-pink light that reflects off the sea and bounces along the waterlogged rice terraces, creating a mosaic-style illusion that’s truly magnificent. Hoshitoge, Niigata Prefecture Hoshitoge, Niigata Prefecture Niigata is a prefecture known for producing some of the nation’s best rice and sake, plenty of which comes from Hoshitoge, a rice terrace nestled along the mountains of the Matsudai region. Although this area is becoming a popular tourist attraction, it’s also the livelihood of many of Niigata’s local farmers, and must always be respected to ensure its long-term survival. As the light bounces off the mountainside the fields resemble shiny scales of a fish; it's a scene that attracts many photo fanatics who make the pilgrimage to try and capture its lush beauty. ©NAVITIME JAPAN. Travel Info Check out our travel tips to make your trip better!
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- Japan
- 9. January. 2019
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Guide to Niigata
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- Found along the northwestern coast of Japan, Niigata Prefecture is celebrated for its high quality rice and breathtaking nature, most notably its spectacular mountains whose white peaks draw in snow sports lovers from far and wide over the winter months. VIDEO ―Captured by Niigata― AREAS Niigata CityThe port city of Niigata is one of the largest and most visitor-friendly cities along Japan’s northwestern coast, home to bustling fish markets, culture-filled museums, and a host of eateries and bars to savour the rice-based delicacies of the prefecture.NagaokaFor those planning a snow-free trip to Niigata Prefecture, Nagaoka offers cherry blossom trees in their thousands, summer fireworks festivals, and a host of cultural activities all year round.JoetsuHistory buffs should make a beeline for Joetsu in the south of the prefecture where you can explore castle ruins atop the towering Mt. Kasuga and learn about the area’s role in WWII at the Peace Memorial Park and its adjoining museum.Sado IslandA 2.5-hour ferry trip west of Niigata City lies the mystical island of Sado where visitors can enjoy the laid back island life on a recce around the rocky coastlines followed by a journey back to the Edo period down the Kinzan Gold Mine.YuzawaAs winter arrives Yuzawa starts filling up with snow sport enthusiasts who rush to the slopes for some of the best snow Japan has to offer, including at the renowned Naeba Ski Resort, before heading to the plentiful natural hot springs in the area. HOW TO GET THERE Unless you’re sticking to local trains and buses, Niigata City will be your first destination as the most accessible city in the prefecture by public transport. The Joetsu Shinkansen offers the simplest route into Niigata Prefecture, taking passengers directly from Tokyo to Niigata Station in just two hours. Those travelling from further afield can fly to Niigata Airport which is located just 40 minutes from the city centre.Planning on travelling to other parts of the prefecture? Niigata City is well-connected with JR trains, local trains, and buses providing numerous options for discovering everything that Niigata has to offer. SIGHTS/THINGS TO DO Mt. NaebaStraddling Niigata and Nagano prefectures at the very edge of the Japanese Alps, Mt. Naeba is home to four ski resorts including the likes of the prestigious Naeba Ski Resort and Kagura Ski Resort. While most certainly not the only ski slopes in the region, the ski resorts atop Mt. Naeba offer some of the most exciting slopes around.Oze National ParkComprising hills, marshlands, flora, and fauna, Oze National Park is a hiker’s paradise best visited in the warmer months when the white skunk cabbages bloom celestially across the landscape.Yahiko ShrineYahiko Shrine is a 1,300-year-old Shinto shrine whose impressive structure of wood and gold is a sight to see against a backdrop of fantastic green, found at the base of Mt. Yahiko in the west of Niigata Prefecture.Sado Kinzan Gold MineIf there’s any reason to take a trip to Sado Island it’s for the Sado Kinzan Gold Mine where visitors can take a tour of the centuries old mines fitted out with wax models before visiting the informative museum.Fuji Rock FestivalJapan’s biggest music festivalーin both size and reputationーFuji Rock takes place at Naeba Ski Resort over three days in July every year attracting big names from home and further afield. SPECIALITIES RiceIt is said that the weather conditions in Niigata Prefecture are to thank for the unrivalled quality of rice produced in the prefecture. Don’t miss the opportunity to put “Japan’s best rice” to the taste test, whether it’s covered with fresh fish or brewed into delicious sake.SakeWith good rice comes good sake and there is no shortage of tasting opportunities around Niigata Prefecture: specialist sake bars, up to 100 sake breweries, and even a sake museum, Ponshukan, where sampling is an essential part of the trip.Noppei jiruPerfect for a detox after too much sake and fried food, noppei jiru is an affordable and wholesome soup made up of delicious veggies and filling chunks of meat or fish.Sasa dangoSasa dango is the ubiquitous sweet treat of Niigata Prefecture, made up of a vibrant purple sweet adzuki bean centre enveloped by a fragrant green mochi rice layer, and finally wrapped in a bamboo leaf.Hegi sobaTraditionally served in a wooden box known as a hegi, the secret behind the unique taste and texture of these soba noodles is the funori seaweed which produces slippery, al dente noodles perfectly complemented by a dipping sauce. More information ・NIIGATA,JAPAN OFFICIAL TRAVEL GUIDE Enjoy Niigata ©NAVITIME JAPAN. Travel Info Check out our travel tips to make your trip better!
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- Japan
- 4. October. 2018
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Touring the Shipping Hub of Shioya
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- A brief drive up the coast from Niigata City, Shioya, once a village outside the castle of town of Murakami, is now a storehouse of traditional Niigata culture, now part of a larger municipal entity. The village’s name (literally: “salt valley”) hints at the former industry of the village, and the remnants of other former commercial activity housed in well-preserved historical buildings are worth a look in, including the Nozawa Food Industry Store and the Marumasu Soy Sauce Factory. Touring the Shipping Hub of Shioya Shioya’s port area is home to the former commercial hub’s major attraction: the Shioya machiya, a strip of traditional wooden townhouses, warehouses and factories. A walk down the Shioya machiya blocks tells a story of the rise and fall of a commercial center: built from Edo-era brewing, fishing, and salt-making fortunes, fortified by shipping businesses, then laid low by shifts in the local and national economy, and finally marooned, trapped in amber on the rugged coastline of Niigata. Among the machiya, the Nozawa Food Industry Store is one of the finest examples. Touring the Shipping Hub of Shioya The mighty Nozawa family put their mark on Shioya beginning in the Edo, and the names of the clan’s patriarchs pop up all over the village. After a visit to the nearby Nozawa soy sauce factory, stop by the Nozawa Food Industry Store. The retro facade and preserved interior of the shop are one of a number of Nozawa properties in Shioya, and one of three Nozawa properties that are now Registered Tangible Cultural Properties. Touring the Shipping Hub of Shioya ©NAVITIME JAPAN. Travel Info Check out our travel tips to make your trip better!
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- Niigata
- 13. August. 2018
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Where to Go on Sado Island
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- Sado is a big island, with many places worth exploring. Here are a few of our top recommendations. Shiawase Jizo Shiawase Jizo Overlooking a plain on the southern part of the island you will find Shiawase Jizo, a 17.5 meter-high statue of the Bodhisattva. According to some accounts, this is the largest Jizo statue in the world. The statue was built by a villager in 1982, and it has since grown to become a popular tourist destination. At the foot of the statue you’ll find a small temple where many smaller jizo statues are on display. Ogi Town Ogi Town Ogi is a small yet very charming town near the south-western edge of the island. In the town, you will find a quaint shopping street with some cafes and restaurants, as well as independent shops selling alcohol, clothes, and books. In August every year a few noteworthy events take place here, including parts of the Earth Celebration festival, as well as Ogi matsuri, where the biggest fireworks show on the island attract a large crowd. A popular activity in Ogi is to ride a tarai-bune, a barrel-shaped ship that is used to collect shellfish and seaweed from the shallow coastal waters. Shukunegi Shukunegi Shukunegi is perhaps the most picturesque settlement on the entire island. The town is an old fishermen’s village, and many of the wooden buildings that line the streets are close to 200 years old. The village used to be the center for shipbuilding on Sado Island several hundred years ago, although not many traces of this remain today. A replica of the kind of ships that used to be produced here is on display at the Ogi Folk & Sengoku Ship Museum, located nearby. Behind the residential part of Shukunegi, you’ll find an atmospheric temple surrounded by lush vegetation, where countless stone statues are placed on graves and on shelves carved out of the nearby hillside. Terraced rice fields Terraced rice fields Sado has several areas with terraced rice fields. One of the most beautiful is found near the village of Iwakubi, next to the southern coast. From the viewpoint located 350 meters up on the steep mountain, you’ll be treated to a splendid view of the approximately 460 rice paddies that make their way along the mountainside, and with glittering waters of the Sea Of Japan far down below. Another famous rice field on Sado is the Ogura Senmaida, located further inland, on the hillside of Mt Oji, the highest peak of the mountain range that spans across the southern part of the island. Futatsugame Futatsugame Futatsugame is a striking rock formation located near the northernmost tip of the island. The name means “two turtles”, and it’s not difficult to understand why once you see the contours of this steep hill, covered with green grass. During low tide, there’s a small beach that connects Futatsugame with the mainland, that makes for a perfect spot to go for a swim during the hot summer months. There’s also a small hotel and a campground located nearby. 4 kilometers further to the west you’ll find a similar looking rock called Onogame. The spots are connected via a scenic hiking trail, so close to the sea that you can feel drops of water hit you when bigger waves reach the shore. Futatsugame has been awarded two stars in the Michelin Green Guide. ©NAVITIME JAPAN. Travel Info Check out our travel tips to make your trip better!
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- Niigata
- 13. August. 2018
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Recommended spots
299 results
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- Teradomari Fish Market Street (Sakana no Ameyoko)
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- Nigata Pref. Nagaokashi Teradomarishimoaramachi
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- Yahiko-jinja Shrine
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4.5303 Reviews - Shrine
- Nigata Pref. Nishikambaragunyahikomura Yahiko 2887-2
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The local train service from Niigata (change at Yoshida) takes about an hour. Check the times of return trains before visiting the shrine and cable car, because there can be a gap in services of up...
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- Niigata City Aquarium Marinepia Nihonkai (Sea of Japan)
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4.0192 Reviews - Aquarium
- Nigata Pref. Nigatashi Chuou-ku Nishifunamichou 5932-445
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It’s located right on the coast in a wooded area about 20 mins walk from centre. It’s great for children with a short but good dolphin display. Lots of sea life. There is a subsea walkway with fish...
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- Joetsushiritsusuizoku Museum umigatari
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3.550 Reviews - Aquarium
- Nigata Pref. Jouetsushi Gochi 2-15-15
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Newly opened in June 2018. It is located on the Naoetsu beach just 10 minutes walk from Naoetsu station of Echigo tokimeki railway-4 stations away from Joetsu Myoko station on Hokuriku Shinkansen...
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- Sado Bugyosho (Magistrate's Office)
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4.063 Reviews - Other Historic Site/Building
- Nigata Pref. Sadoshi Aikawahiromamachi 1-1
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We went to this reconstructed Governer’s Office (Sado Bugyousho) first established in 1603. It was composed of three areas. The Governer’s residence, the administration offices and a separate...
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Found along the northwestern coast of Japan, Niigata prefecture is celebrated for its high-quality rice and breathtaking nature, most notably its spectacular mountains, whose white peaks draw in snow sports lovers from far and wide over the winter months. Hit the slopes at Yuzawa, pick out your favourite modern artist at Echigo Tsumari, or take a ferry over to Sado Island for an extra adventure.
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