Top Places to See in Niigata | Perfect Spots for Local Experiences in Japan

With the process of modernization, cultural and natural heritages are being damaged one after another all over the world. Meanwhile in Niigata Prefecture, Japan, a movement is underway to preserve traditional culture and nature in order to pass them on to the future. Immerse yourself in local culture and enjoy sustainable activities at any of these three top places to see in Niigata Prefecture.

Kiyotsu Gorge – A stunning harmony of nature and art

Kiyotsukyo Gorge in Tokamachi City, Niigata Prefecture, is one of the three great gorges of Japan, along with Kurobe Gorge in Toyama Prefecture and Osugi Gorge in Mie Prefecture.

Kiyotsukyo Gorge in Tokamachi City, Niigata Prefecture, is a series of rocks with an unusual structure called “columnar joints,” which form when magma flows in from underground and cools and hardens. The scenery of magnificent columnar-jointed rock surfaces and emerald green clear streams is so beautiful that the area is designated a national scenic spot.

However, one of Japan’s most beautiful landscapes was for a time closed to the public due to accidents involving falling rocks. In 1996, a 750-meter-long pedestrian tunnel was completed, bringing the beautiful natural beauty back to the public’s attention. In 2018, the entire tunnel was renewed as “Tunnel of Light.” It was designed by Chinese architectural firm Ma Yansong/MAD Architects as part of the Echigo-Tsumari Art Triennale. The scenery and space created by the ancient natural beauty and the artwork brought more enjoyment than ever to the visitors.

The “Panorama Station” at the far end of the tunnel is one of the most popular spots among travelers. The reflection of Kiyotsukyo Gorge in the thin, mirror-like water creates a truly breathtaking view. The beauty of the scenery differs depending on the season, weather, and time of day, which is another unique aspect of Niigata‘s dynamic natural environment.

Business hours: 8:30-17:00 (last admission at 16:30) *Advance reservation is required during peak season. In winter, the gorge may be temporarily closed due to snowfall.
Address: 2119-2 Koidegai, Tokamachi City

Niigata Furumachi – Traditional Japanese streets of the Geisha District

Furumachi is the name of the district centered on Furumachi-dori Street, in the center of Niigata City. For centuries, this area was a hub for both river and maritime transportation, which brought in people and goods. During the Edo period (1603-1868), Niigata City prospered as a port of call for Kitamae ships, or trading vessels, connecting Hokkaido and Osaka. To this day, the streets of Furumachi, especially those that were built around the 17th century, can still be seen.

Furumachi once flourished as a flower town (a district where geisha lived and worked) along with Shin-bashi (Tokyo) and Gion (Kyoto). In those days, geisha played a central role in providing hospitality to visiting literati and leading figures in the political and business worlds from the capital. Geisha danced and sang in their gorgeous kimonos, enlivening the tatami room with a festive atmosphere.

Furumachi also became known as a gourmet town where one could enjoy Niigata‘s unique cuisine and fine sake. There are several long-established ryotei restaurants that continue to be loved by locals. Currently, there are 11 restaurants in Furumachi where visitors can enjoy a meal while watching the dancing of Furumachi geiko. For those who would like to meet geisha in a more casual setting, we recommend the Furumachi Yanagito Café which was opened in 2018. In addition to tea and sweets served by a geiko, there is also a program where you can watch a geiko dance performance.

Address: Furumachi-dori, Chuo-ku, Niigata City

Yahiko Shrine – A spectacular shrine with 2400 years of history

For those who want to experience Japanese culture in depth, we recommend you visit shrines and temples that have been cherished and adored through the ages by people all over Japan.

Yahiko Shrine, located in Yahiko Village in Niigata Prefecture, is considered to be a shrine with a history of more than 2,400 years. It is one of the most popular places to visit when in Niigata Prefecture. It is conveniently located within walking distance from JR Yahiko Station and attracts 1.4 million visitors annually.

The enshrined deity is Ame-no-Kagoyama-no-Mikoto, the great-grandchild of the goddess Amaterasu, the goddess of the sun in Japanese mythology, that is said to have helped Japan’s first emperor Jimmu to pacify Japan. Yahiko Shrine is said to have its origins in 392 A.D. when this child of Ame-no-Kagoyama-no-Mikoto built a shrine here. Since then, Yahiko Shrine has been generously patronized by the Imperial Court as well as by the shogunate and military commanders of the time.

Today, the grounds of the shrine are surrounded by a forest of trees, offering visitors the opportunity to enjoy the beauty of nature and forest bathing. Behind the shrine rises the 634-meter-high Mt. Yahiko, from the summit of which one can enjoy a magical view over the Sea of Japan, as well as the vast Echigo Plain. There is a ropeway station about a 10-minute walk from the shrine to take you to the summit station.

The precincts of the shrine can be enjoyed throughout the year, but the fantastic sight of the shrine clad in snow in winter is a must-see! Visitors can enjoy the shrine under the lights of lanterns from the precincts and the solemn atmosphere surrounded by deep snow.

Address: 2887-2 Yahiko, Yahiko-mura, Nishikanbara-gun