Top 10 things to do in Niigata

  1. Visit the Northern Culture Museum

    Address: 186 Tokamachi, Matsugasaki, Niigata, 949-8203, Japan

    The Northern Culture Museum is a fascinating museum that showcases the history and culture of Niigata and the surrounding areas. The museum is housed in a beautiful traditional Japanese building and features exhibits on everything from traditional crafts to local folklore and customs.

  2. Explore the Niigata City Aquarium Marinepia Nihonkai

    Address: 1867-1 Nishifunamicho, Chuo Ward, Niigata, 951-8103, Japan

    This aquarium is home to a wide range of marine life from the Sea of Japan, including dolphins, sea lions, and penguins. Visitors can watch feeding shows, touch tanks, and even swim with dolphins.

  3. Take a stroll through the Furumachi district

    Address: Furumachi, Chuo Ward, Niigata, 951-8061, Japan

    Furumachi is a historic district in the heart of Niigata that features beautifully preserved traditional Japanese buildings, many of which have been converted into shops, restaurants, and galleries. It's a great place to explore and get a feel for the city's rich history and culture.

  4. Visit the Niigata Prefectural Botanical Garden

    Address: 1861-1 Horinouchi, Nishi Ward, Niigata, 950-2144, Japan

    This beautiful garden features a wide range of plants and flowers from around the world, as well as a large greenhouse and a pond filled with koi fish. It's a great spot for a peaceful stroll or a picnic.

  5. Take a ride on the Niigata City Loop Bus

    Address: Various stops throughout Niigata

    The Niigata City Loop Bus is a convenient and affordable way to see the city's most popular sights. The bus makes stops at all of the major tourist attractions, including the Northern Culture Museum, Marinepia Nihonkai, and the Niigata Prefectural Botanical Garden.

  6. Try some local Niigata cuisine

    Address: Various restaurants throughout Niigata

    Niigata is known for its delicious seafood and rice dishes, as well as its sake. Some popular local dishes to try include sushi, sashimi, and koshihikari rice. There are many great restaurants throughout the city that specialize in these dishes.

  7. Visit the Sado Island Taiko Centre

    Address: 107-1 Nishimikawa, Sado, Niigata, 952-1207, Japan

    Sado Island is a short ferry ride from Niigata and is home to the Sado Island Taiko Centre, a museum dedicated to the art of taiko drumming. Visitors can learn about the history of taiko and even try their hand at playing the drums.

  8. Take a scenic train ride on the Echigo Tokimeki Railway

    Address: Various stops throughout Niigata

    The Echigo Tokimeki Railway is a scenic train line that runs through the countryside surrounding Niigata. The train features large windows that offer stunning views of the surrounding mountains and rice paddies.

  9. Visit the Niigata City Art Museum

    Address: 2 Chome-3-2 Bandaijima, Chuo Ward, Niigata, 951-8105, Japan

    The Niigata City Art Museum features a wide range of contemporary and traditional art from Japan and around the world. The museum is housed in a striking modern building that overlooks the Sea of Japan.

  10. Take a dip in the hot springs at Yuzawa

    Address: Yuzawa, Minamiuonuma District, Niigata, 949-6101, Japan

    Yuzawa is a small town located in the mountains of Niigata that is famous for its hot springs. Visitors can soak in the hot springs and enjoy the stunning natural scenery. The town is also a popular ski destination in the winter.