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Central Niigata City 1-Day Tour
Joined 2018
You are to visit highlights of Niigata City in 6 hours using public transportation and taxi. Choose 5 spots to visit. You will love to walk along the Shinano River and cross the symbolic Bandai Bridge if time allows. You will also have opportunity to learn the history and background of abundant Niigata food culture such as sake, miso, rice balls and other food materials. From the top of Bakauke Observation Deck, you will have the great and panoramic view of the city and the nature.
Itinerary
This itinerary can be customized to meet your needs and preferences. Send me a message with your requests!
Meeting Point
Niigata Station Bandai Exit
Imayotsukasa Sake Brewery
Take the brewery tour and enjoy sake tasting. You will be amazed by the size of the tanks. Taste different kinds of sake and find your favorite.
Minemura Miso Factory and Shop
Learn how to make miso soybean paste and taste some different kinds of miso.
Toki Messe and Pia Bandai Market
Visit Toki Messe International conference venue and go up to Bakauke Observation Deck to view the city and surrounding nature from the 31st floor of the building. You will enjoy tasting freshly fried fish cake in front your eyes at Pia Bandai. You have a choice to have genuine sushi lunch at Benkei here.
Minatopia Port Museum
Learn how the central Niigata was developed and how people of Niigata have lived together with waterbody at the museum. Take a closer look at the old Niigata Customs Office which had been used for about 100 years after Niigata Port was opened at the end of Edo Period. Admission fee: 300 yen each.
Tanakaya Minato Koubou to make Sasadango dumplings
A Sasadango dumpling class is given only for a group of more than 5 people. (Reservation is required. The class fee is 2,200 yen each.) You can enjoy seeing the process of dumpling making through the window. Get your favorite Japanese sweets from the shelf and taste them with free green. You can take a rest over the sweets and the tea, and see the flow of the Shinano River through the shop's wide window.
The Shinano River Watershuttle Ride
Enjoy the shuttle boat ride between Minatopia and Bandai Bridge West Stop. You will see the central Niigata City from a different angle. The boat service is available betweeen March 15 and December 1. One way boat fare is JPY250 for each person.
Furumachi Area to have lunch and browse the shopping arcade
You can choose good food out of a lot of options. Some rice ball shops provide good freshly rolled Koshihikari rice （Niigata’s pride rice) onigiri (rice balls) of ingredients of your choice. Sushi, ramen, and other food shops are there too. You can enjoy strolling between Hakusan Shrine and central Niigata City. Also yoiu can enjoy local sweets there.
Shinano Riverside Promenade
Enjoy taking a walk along the Shinano River and take photos of the city's symbolic bridge, Bandai Bridge.
Marinepia Nihonkai Aquarium
You will be able to see and learn about the marine life of the Sea of Japan. Enjoy the dolphin shows (held 4-5 times a day) which gives you an unforgettable fun memory in Niigata. Admission fee: 1500 yen for Adult, 600 yen for Child.
Hakusan Shrine and Hakusan Park
Visit the city's most visited shrine, Hakusan Shrine. People in Niigata visit the shrine for a lot of important life events to wish for good luck, success, good health and other wishes. For your memory of visiting Niigata, you could buy a small amulet or two of the good luck Hakusan Shrine. If the timing allows, some food stalls are lined up for the shrine's celebrations of the seasons in Hakusan Park next to the shrine.
Yukata /Kimono Experience in Furumachi
Renta a kimono or yukata (summer colorful kimono) and stroll around Furumachi. The kimono rental price is approx. JPY6,600 per day including the putting-on helping charge. Putting on Kimono takes at least 1 hour, so choose 4 more spots to visit instead of 5 because of time constraint.
Former Saito Family's Villa
Built by Kijuro Saitou IV between 1917 and 1920, the villa is located on a 4,500 ㎡ estate, with 4,400 ㎡ dedicated to gardens. The villa is designed to integrate the house and garden seamlessly. Its open structure features a large garden with a stream and pond, providing picturesque views year-round. A guest can enjoy tasting maccha and Japanese sweets for JPY400 viewing the beautiful garden. Admission: JPY300
Nuttari Terrace Shopping Arcade
Discover Nuttari Terrace Shopping Street: Where History Meets Modern
Near the mouth of the Shinano River in Niigata City's Chūō ward lies the ancient town of Nuttari. This charming area has transformed its old marketplace into the lively Nuttari Terrace Shopping Street.
Renovated from traditional market houses while retaining the nostalgic Showa-era streetscape, Nuttari Terrace offers a unique blend of old and new.
Nuttari Terrace Shopping Street invites you to explore its diverse offerings, from traditional crafts and local delicacies to contemporary boutiques and trendy cafes, celebrating Niigata's rich cultural heritage and vibrant community spirit.
Niigata Nippo Media Ship
Experience Media Ship: Niigata's Landmark
Media Ship is a striking multifaceted building, home to the Niigata Nippo newspaper and more. Its unique façade, inspired by the sails of historic trading ships, is a standout feature.
- Sora no Hiroba: The 20th-floor sky plaza offers free public access to breathtaking views of Niigata's cityscape, the Shinano River, and Niigata Port. With no high-rise buildings nearby, the panoramic views are exceptional. Comfortable sofas invite relaxation while taking in the scenery.
- Shopping Area: The first floor hosts a small shopping area with local Niigata products, blending regional charm with modern convenience.
Discover the perfect mix of historical inspiration and contemporary design at Media Ship, a must-visit for anyone exploring Niigata.
Ending Point
Niigata Station Bandai Exit/ Bandai City/ Next 21
Want to personalize this tour?
This tour can be customized to meet your needs and preferences. Click below to send me a message with your requests.
Inclusions & Exclusions
guide fee
transportation fee (you and guide), lunch, entrance fee, etc. Hiring a medium size taxi for upto 3 people plus guide is approx. JPY3,250 per 30 min.; a van type taxi for upto 8 people plus guide is approx. JPY4,900 per 30 min. around Niigata City.
Tour Important Information
Entrance fees for Minatopia 300 yen, the Saito Family's Villa 300 yen each
Sake brewery tour at Imayotsukasa: 400 yen each
Lunch, taxi fare are not included either. Museums are closed basically on Mondays.
No extra hour on Mondays. Not available from Dec. 28 to Jan.6.
Cancellation Policy
- Free cancellation - 8 days prior to meeting time
- 50% Refund - 3 to 7 days prior to meeting time
- No Refund - Within 2 day(s) prior to meeting time
Joined 2018
About Tour Guide Mutsuko W.
Yokoso! Welcome!
Hi, I'm Mutsuko, a National Government Licensed Guide Interpreter. A true Niigatite, I was born and raised in Niigata City with roots dating back generations. I would be pleased to show you another side of Japan in my beautiful and unique prefecture.
The Warm Hospitality: Niigata Prefecture is located on the west coast of the Japanese Archipelago, facing the Sea of Japan and provides a true insider look into the Japanese spirit. Only two hours away from Tokyo by Shinkansen, it has been perfecting the art of casual hospitality through centuries as a culinary hotspot and nature getaway for the those escaping the rat-race.
History at your own Pace: Appreciate history and culture at your own pace in Niigata. Yahiko, National Shrine has been soothing souls, and inspiring locals, poets, and travellers for over 2500 years. Historically significant buildings greet seafarers at Niigata Port and the old town area, Furumachi. Cross the symbolic Bandai Bridge to the other side of the Shinano River where we can move from the ancient to the modern in the Bandai area to shop and gather with young and old for entertainment such as movies, music, manga, and anime.
Over the Sea, Over the Mountain, Over the Fields: Nature is good to Niigata Prefecture, giving us four clear-cut seasons. People from all over the country, and travellers wanting to experience Japan with the Japanese join us to soak in the sun on our beaches, relax at spa resorts, challenge themselves on world class ski hills, and dance together at festivals that draw world class performers.
Travel with Me: With direct trains to and from Tokyo and an international airport, Niigata is just a stone's throw away to have a unique taste of Japan. Whether you're planning a day trip or a longer stay, I invite you to visit Niigata City and other parts of the prefecture, and while here, it would be my pleasure to help you create unique memories during your stay.
Reviews
“Family Vacation to Niigata”
During our recent family vacation to Niigata, we had the pleasure of being guided by Mutsuko, and I can’t recommend her highly enough! Mutsuko put in a tremendous amount of effort researching our family history in advance of our arrival to make our experience truly special. Before our arrival, Mutsuko took the time to research our family history, uncovering connections and stories that enriched our trip in ways we hadn’t anticipated. Her knowledge about the culture and historical context made every site we visited come alive with meaning. Mutsuko’s warmth and enthusiasm were infectious; she engaged with each member of our family, tailoring her insights to our varied interests. She truly was interested in learning about our family history as much as we were. What truly stood out was her genuine passion for her hometown and its heritage. Mutsuko not only guided us through Niigata’s beautiful sights but also shared her personal stories and experiences, which was an added touch to our 2-day trip. Overall, Mutsuko made our family vacation unforgettable. If you're looking for a guide who goes above and beyond, deeply cares about her guests, and offers a unique, personalized experience, I would highly recommend.
Mutsuko W.
Tim-san, Wow, thank you very much for your words of pleasant praise! I donnot know what to say! Just please let me say I also enjoyed the tour with you and your family. I hope you will be able to encounter more findings about your family. It was heart-wariming to get to know your family history. Thank you for giving me this great opportunity to know how wonderful it is to be acquainted with our own family history! Please let me know and be of your help next time you visit Niigata! Mutsuko
“very nice tour”
We had a beautiful day out in Sado island. We enjoyed our guide and the driver did his job very well. We thank you for the tour!
Mutsuko W.
Melissa san, It is so good to hear from you. I have been worried about one of your daughters health condition. I hope she is all right now. I am glad to know you had a good time in Sado and I hope you also did in other parts of Japan.
“Interesting time and informative”
We focus on history and off the grid local spots. Mutsuko was very knowledgeable and well spoken. Trip timing and planning was exceptional. It was great!
Mutsuko W.
Steve san, Thank you for your great feedback. You two are energetic and curious about things in town. I enjoyed guiding you around the city on such a beautiful spring day! Please enjoy the rest of your trip. I am looking forward to guiding you again.
$214/ per group
More tours by Mutsuko W.
Shibata Castle and Central Shibata
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Visitors can visit the large former Ito Family residence (Northern Culture Museum), and soak their feet in outdoor hot bath in Tsukioka. Please enjoy tasting various kinds of sake, local foods and lunch. Take a panoramic view of vast rice fields spreading in the Echigo Plain from the top floor of View Fukushimagata standing by the wetlands and learn how Niigata has centered rice in its culture.
Gondola Ride to Mt Yahiko Top and Yahiko Shrine Visit plus Teradomari
Visitors can enjoy the hike to the top of Mt Yahiko by gondola and a 15-minute walk to the very top of the mountain to visit the uppermost Yahiko Shrine. Please take a panoramic view of the Sea of Japan and the vast Echigo Plain. Cherry blossoms in spring and beautiful colored leaves in autumn are marvelous to see. Make a wish at main worship hall of Yahiko Shrine for a good memory. Also you will visit Teradomari Fish Market to nibble on some grilled seafood.
Kita-ku Fermented Food Culture and Fukushimagata Walking Tour
This tour provides visitors with an unforgettable experience by tasting sake and miso fermented soy bean paste. They will be amazed by products made with pride and history of fermented food culture. You can enjoy Italian cuisine, sushi, ramen or more cooked with localy produced vegetables and seafood caught in the Sea of Japn, for lunch.
Other Popular Day Trip Tours in Niigata
Joetsu City One Day Walking Tour, Takada Area
Interested in historical sites in Japan? How about Joetsu City? Just a short ride from Tokyo (two hours.) Joetsu City is located in Niigata Prefecture, along the Sea of Japan. Takada Area, a famous sightseeing spot in Joetsu, has interesting features: a castle town, a snowy town, and tasty food and sake. By walking along a local town and communicating with local people, you will feel refreshed and energized. I hope to see you soon!
Shibata Castle and Central Shibata
Visitors can take the beautiful view of Shibata Castle, and feel the ambience of the castle town by walking along the streets. Please choose 6 spots to visit out of the highlights in central Shibata City.
Northern Culture Museum, Tsukioka and Fukushimagata Wetlands
Visitors can visit the large former Ito Family residence (Northern Culture Museum), and soak their feet in outdoor hot bath in Tsukioka. Please enjoy tasting various kinds of sake, local foods and lunch. Take a panoramic view of vast rice fields spreading in the Echigo Plain from the top floor of View Fukushimagata standing by the wetlands and learn how Niigata has centered rice in its culture.
Gondola Ride to Mt Yahiko Top and Yahiko Shrine Visit plus Teradomari
Visitors can enjoy the hike to the top of Mt Yahiko by gondola and a 15-minute walk to the very top of the mountain to visit the uppermost Yahiko Shrine. Please take a panoramic view of the Sea of Japan and the vast Echigo Plain. Cherry blossoms in spring and beautiful colored leaves in autumn are marvelous to see. Make a wish at main worship hall of Yahiko Shrine for a good memory. Also you will visit Teradomari Fish Market to nibble on some grilled seafood.