Adventure Travel in the Snow Country of Niigata!
2024.03.08Niigata, known for its gold mines on Sado Island that are aspiring for World Heritage site status, and its distinctive food culture as a rice-producing region, is an ideal destination for adventure travel (AT) enthusiasts seeking a blend of history and culture. Immerse yourself in its rich heritage and explore various outdoor activities like trekking and kayaking amidst stunning natural landscapes. This article highlights the allure of adventure travel in Niigata and outlines a few recommended sightseeing itineraries.
The Allure of Adventure Travel in Niigata
Adventure Travel (AT), a global trend that fosters a connection with nature and local culture through a diverse set of activities, has been capturing the fascination of travelers worldwide. Beyond the simple pleasures of outdoor pursuits like trekking, cycling, and kayaking, AT enables travelers to delve into the natural surroundings, history, and culture of the region, adding depth to their journey.
Niigata Prefecture stands out as an ideal location for adventure travel, boasting a lush natural environment and a rich history and culture distinct to the area.
Situated along the Sea of Japan, it is graced by the presence of Mt. Myoko, where mountain worship traditions endure, and powerful rivers such as Agano and Shinano. The distinct shift in seasons offers a spectrum of natural vistas and activities throughout the year, including cherry blossoms in spring, alpine adventures and seaside escapes in summer, autumn foliage in fall, and winter sports during the colder months.
In addition, the expansive rice paddies and terraced fields offer a must-see natural encounter in Niigata. As a thriving rice-producing region, Niigata holds the top spot in Japan for both rice acreage and harvest. This prominence has fostered a culture of fermented foods derived from rice, such as sake and miso. Savor these culinary delights during your stay!
Sado Island, Japan's largest remote island, boasts a unique natural environment that can be likened to a ""miniature Japan"" in terms of both topography and vegetation. Formed by crustal movements approximately 3 million years ago, Sado Island features all the coastal landforms found across Japan. Furthermore, the island is home to nearly 1,700 species of wild plants, with alpine vegetation typically found at elevations of 2,000 meters flourishing at altitudes below 1,000 meters.
For a deeper understanding of its history and culture, it is highly recommended to delve into the rich heritage of the Sado Gold Mine. The Sado Gold Mine holds a 400-year history, commencing in 1601 and concluding its operations in 1989. It thrived as a significant producer of gold and silver in Japan, leaving behind numerous remnants on its expansive site, including tunnels, mining, and smelting facilities.
Niigata Prefecture stands out as an ideal location for adventure travel, boasting a lush natural environment and a rich history and culture distinct to the area.
Situated along the Sea of Japan, it is graced by the presence of Mt. Myoko, where mountain worship traditions endure, and powerful rivers such as Agano and Shinano. The distinct shift in seasons offers a spectrum of natural vistas and activities throughout the year, including cherry blossoms in spring, alpine adventures and seaside escapes in summer, autumn foliage in fall, and winter sports during the colder months.
In addition, the expansive rice paddies and terraced fields offer a must-see natural encounter in Niigata. As a thriving rice-producing region, Niigata holds the top spot in Japan for both rice acreage and harvest. This prominence has fostered a culture of fermented foods derived from rice, such as sake and miso. Savor these culinary delights during your stay!
Sado Island, Japan's largest remote island, boasts a unique natural environment that can be likened to a ""miniature Japan"" in terms of both topography and vegetation. Formed by crustal movements approximately 3 million years ago, Sado Island features all the coastal landforms found across Japan. Furthermore, the island is home to nearly 1,700 species of wild plants, with alpine vegetation typically found at elevations of 2,000 meters flourishing at altitudes below 1,000 meters.
For a deeper understanding of its history and culture, it is highly recommended to delve into the rich heritage of the Sado Gold Mine. The Sado Gold Mine holds a 400-year history, commencing in 1601 and concluding its operations in 1989. It thrived as a significant producer of gold and silver in Japan, leaving behind numerous remnants on its expansive site, including tunnels, mining, and smelting facilities.
Model Course 1: [Uonuma - Sado Course] 5-Day Sado and Uonuma Exploration - Covering the Sado-Mikuni Kaido Golden Trail
【DAY1】
Upon arriving at Echigo Yuzawa Station via the Joetsu Shinkansen, your journey begins with a drive to Tokamachi City.
Tokamachi City, steeped in a thousand years of agricultural heritage and renowned for one of the world's heaviest snowfalls, is simply captivating.
Start your day by strolling through the picturesque terraced rice fields, expertly cultivated and handed down through generations, with a local guide. As you traverse the area, immerse yourself in the local lifestyle.
Tokamachi is also home to the Echigo-Tsumari Art Triennale, a global showcase featuring works by world-class artists year-round. At Matsudai Noh-butai, the festival's base facility, you can receive an overview of the Echigo-Tsumari Art Triennale before embarking on a guided walk through the terraced rice paddies to witness the artworks and installations. Marvel at the contemporary artistry of Ilya Kabakov, a Ukrainian artist, and other masterpieces.
The 2-kilometer journey from Matsudai Noh-butai to Matsudai Castle atop the mountain is a ""field museum,"" adorned with approximately 40 scattered artworks. Delight in vibrant contemporary pieces reflecting the essence of the earth while catching glimpses of local residents engaged in their daily lives amidst the rice paddies.
*Overnight stay: Echigo-Yuzawa Onsen
Upon arriving at Echigo Yuzawa Station via the Joetsu Shinkansen, your journey begins with a drive to Tokamachi City.
Tokamachi City, steeped in a thousand years of agricultural heritage and renowned for one of the world's heaviest snowfalls, is simply captivating.
Start your day by strolling through the picturesque terraced rice fields, expertly cultivated and handed down through generations, with a local guide. As you traverse the area, immerse yourself in the local lifestyle.
Tokamachi is also home to the Echigo-Tsumari Art Triennale, a global showcase featuring works by world-class artists year-round. At Matsudai Noh-butai, the festival's base facility, you can receive an overview of the Echigo-Tsumari Art Triennale before embarking on a guided walk through the terraced rice paddies to witness the artworks and installations. Marvel at the contemporary artistry of Ilya Kabakov, a Ukrainian artist, and other masterpieces.
The 2-kilometer journey from Matsudai Noh-butai to Matsudai Castle atop the mountain is a ""field museum,"" adorned with approximately 40 scattered artworks. Delight in vibrant contemporary pieces reflecting the essence of the earth while catching glimpses of local residents engaged in their daily lives amidst the rice paddies.
*Overnight stay: Echigo-Yuzawa Onsen
【DAY2】
Join a cycling tour along the picturesque Uonuma Skyline, part of the Yukiguni Uonuma Golden Cycle Route (GCR). Pedal through the enchanting countryside of Minamiuonuma, where the renowned Uonuma Koshihikari rice is cultivated.
Spanning a vast distance of approximately 185 kilometers, the Yukiguni Uonuma GCR is a cycling route that seamlessly connects Yuzawa Town, Minamiuonuma City, and Uonuma City. This captivating cycling course offers visitors a chance to immerse themselves in the unique charm of the snow country of Niigata, experiencing its four distinct seasons, rich culture, and climate.
Starting from the Tochikubo Pass, situated on the border between Minamiuonuma and Tokamachi, the route takes you on a descent, providing you with a panorama of breathtaking sights such as terraced rice fields and the Uonuma Basin while feeling the invigorating wind.
There’s a pit stop at Shiozawa-juku, a town dating back to the 17th century along the historic Mikuni Kaido Road.
*Overnight stay: Echigo-Yuzawa Onsen or Minamiuonuma (Muikamachi)
Join a cycling tour along the picturesque Uonuma Skyline, part of the Yukiguni Uonuma Golden Cycle Route (GCR). Pedal through the enchanting countryside of Minamiuonuma, where the renowned Uonuma Koshihikari rice is cultivated.
Spanning a vast distance of approximately 185 kilometers, the Yukiguni Uonuma GCR is a cycling route that seamlessly connects Yuzawa Town, Minamiuonuma City, and Uonuma City. This captivating cycling course offers visitors a chance to immerse themselves in the unique charm of the snow country of Niigata, experiencing its four distinct seasons, rich culture, and climate.
Starting from the Tochikubo Pass, situated on the border between Minamiuonuma and Tokamachi, the route takes you on a descent, providing you with a panorama of breathtaking sights such as terraced rice fields and the Uonuma Basin while feeling the invigorating wind.
There’s a pit stop at Shiozawa-juku, a town dating back to the 17th century along the historic Mikuni Kaido Road.
*Overnight stay: Echigo-Yuzawa Onsen or Minamiuonuma (Muikamachi)
【DAY3】
Board the shinkansen to Niigata City and then hop on a jetfoil from Niigata Port to Ryotsu Port on Sado Island. Upon arrival, a knowledgeable guide will provide insights into Sado Geopark, a haven for preserving the island’s natural environment and diverse ecosystem. Indulge in a delightful lakeside lunch, prepared with Sado ingredients, at Lake Kamo - the largest lake on Japan's remote islands. Then enjoy kayaking on the lake!
After a day of exploration and exercise, head to the Kirarium Sado information center to delve into the history of Sado’s gold and silver mines. Then assume the role of a mine owner and go on an educational tour through the mine shafts at the Sado Gold Mine, getting a glimpse into its historical operations.
A stroll through Aikawa, where remnants of the Sado Magistrate's Office and historic streets endure, will precede an evening of indulgence in Sado's delectable cuisine and sake at a charming old restaurant situated within a private residence.
After dinner, visit the Kitazawa Flotation Plant, an industrial heritage site illuminated by enchanting lights.
*Overnight stay: Sado Island (Aikawa)
Board the shinkansen to Niigata City and then hop on a jetfoil from Niigata Port to Ryotsu Port on Sado Island. Upon arrival, a knowledgeable guide will provide insights into Sado Geopark, a haven for preserving the island’s natural environment and diverse ecosystem. Indulge in a delightful lakeside lunch, prepared with Sado ingredients, at Lake Kamo - the largest lake on Japan's remote islands. Then enjoy kayaking on the lake!
After a day of exploration and exercise, head to the Kirarium Sado information center to delve into the history of Sado’s gold and silver mines. Then assume the role of a mine owner and go on an educational tour through the mine shafts at the Sado Gold Mine, getting a glimpse into its historical operations.
A stroll through Aikawa, where remnants of the Sado Magistrate's Office and historic streets endure, will precede an evening of indulgence in Sado's delectable cuisine and sake at a charming old restaurant situated within a private residence.
After dinner, visit the Kitazawa Flotation Plant, an industrial heritage site illuminated by enchanting lights.
*Overnight stay: Sado Island (Aikawa)
【DAY4】
Embark on a scenic journey by car and join a local guide for a trek through Niigata’s virgin forest, leading to a group of giant cedar trees believed to be over 500 years old. Only 15 visitors are allowed each day!
In the evening, set sail on a sightseeing boat to Sotokaifu, Sado's unexplored region, and witness the majestic Ozare Falls from the sea. Marvel at the powerful sight of this 70-meter waterfall plunging from a steep cliff over 100 meters high, a masterpiece shaped by extensive coastal erosion.
*Overnight stay: Sado Island (Aikawa)
Embark on a scenic journey by car and join a local guide for a trek through Niigata’s virgin forest, leading to a group of giant cedar trees believed to be over 500 years old. Only 15 visitors are allowed each day!
In the evening, set sail on a sightseeing boat to Sotokaifu, Sado's unexplored region, and witness the majestic Ozare Falls from the sea. Marvel at the powerful sight of this 70-meter waterfall plunging from a steep cliff over 100 meters high, a masterpiece shaped by extensive coastal erosion.
*Overnight stay: Sado Island (Aikawa)
【DAY5】
Travel by car to Ogi Port for a delightful day of cycling and walking around the port, Yajima Island, and Kyojima Island, which are all designated as Geoparks. The undulating coastline, shaped by undersea volcanic activity, presents a dynamic and unique landscape for exploration.
Discover the charm of Shukunegi, a national Important Preservation District for Groups of Traditional Buildings that thrived as a shipping port in the 17th century, together with a local guide. Following this, partake in a distinctive Sado Island activity - the hangiri (tub boat) ride! Embark on an eco-friendly, leisurely cruise through the rocky local terrain shaped by the earth over a long period of time.
Next, immerse yourself in the rhythmic beats of taiko drumming at Tatakokan, a Sado Island taiko center operated by the globally acclaimed Kodo taiko drumming group. Conclude the day with a visit to Gakkogura, a sake brewery housed in a former school building managed by the Obata Sake Brewery, an established sake producer since 1892.
Upon transferring to Ryotsu Port, board a jetfoil to Niigata Port, and return to Tokyo from Niigata Station via the Joetsu Shinkansen.
Travel by car to Ogi Port for a delightful day of cycling and walking around the port, Yajima Island, and Kyojima Island, which are all designated as Geoparks. The undulating coastline, shaped by undersea volcanic activity, presents a dynamic and unique landscape for exploration.
Discover the charm of Shukunegi, a national Important Preservation District for Groups of Traditional Buildings that thrived as a shipping port in the 17th century, together with a local guide. Following this, partake in a distinctive Sado Island activity - the hangiri (tub boat) ride! Embark on an eco-friendly, leisurely cruise through the rocky local terrain shaped by the earth over a long period of time.
Next, immerse yourself in the rhythmic beats of taiko drumming at Tatakokan, a Sado Island taiko center operated by the globally acclaimed Kodo taiko drumming group. Conclude the day with a visit to Gakkogura, a sake brewery housed in a former school building managed by the Obata Sake Brewery, an established sake producer since 1892.
Upon transferring to Ryotsu Port, board a jetfoil to Niigata Port, and return to Tokyo from Niigata Station via the Joetsu Shinkansen.
Model Course 2: [Sado - Myoko Course] 5-Day Adventure to the Golden Island of Sado and the Myoko Plateau Where Mountain Worship Is Ingrained Into the Everyday
【DAY1】
After arriving at Niigata Station via the Joetsu Shinkansen, board a jetfoil to Ryotsu Port on Sado Island (Niigata Port 9:40 am - Ryotsu Port 10:47 am).
Upon reaching the island, an expert guide will unravel the wonders of the Sado Geopark, dedicated to preserving the pristine natural environment and diverse ecosystem of Sado Island. Indulge in lunch featuring delectable Sado ingredients at Lake Kamo, the largest lake on Japan's remote islands. Cap off the afternoon with a serene kayaking experience on the lake!
After all the fun and adventure, head to the Kirarium Sado information center to delve into the history of Sado’s gold and silver mines. Then assume the role of a mine owner and go on an educational tour through the mine shafts at the Sado Gold Mine, getting a glimpse into its past operations.
Take a leisurely stroll through Aikawa, where remnants of the Sado Magistrate's Office and historic streets endure, before savoring Sado's culinary delights and sake at a charming old restaurant situated within a private residence.
After dinner, explore the enchanting Kitazawa Flotation Plant, an industrial heritage site illuminated by captivating lights.
*Overnight stay: Sado Island (Aikawa)
After arriving at Niigata Station via the Joetsu Shinkansen, board a jetfoil to Ryotsu Port on Sado Island (Niigata Port 9:40 am - Ryotsu Port 10:47 am).
Upon reaching the island, an expert guide will unravel the wonders of the Sado Geopark, dedicated to preserving the pristine natural environment and diverse ecosystem of Sado Island. Indulge in lunch featuring delectable Sado ingredients at Lake Kamo, the largest lake on Japan's remote islands. Cap off the afternoon with a serene kayaking experience on the lake!
After all the fun and adventure, head to the Kirarium Sado information center to delve into the history of Sado’s gold and silver mines. Then assume the role of a mine owner and go on an educational tour through the mine shafts at the Sado Gold Mine, getting a glimpse into its past operations.
Take a leisurely stroll through Aikawa, where remnants of the Sado Magistrate's Office and historic streets endure, before savoring Sado's culinary delights and sake at a charming old restaurant situated within a private residence.
After dinner, explore the enchanting Kitazawa Flotation Plant, an industrial heritage site illuminated by captivating lights.
*Overnight stay: Sado Island (Aikawa)
【DAY2】
Travel by car to join a local guide for a trek through Sado’s pristine virgin forest, home to a group of giant cedar trees believed to be over 500 years old. With a daily limit of 15 visitors, relish the serenity of this untouched natural haven.
As the day transitions to evening, embark on a captivating sightseeing boat excursion to Sotokaifu, Sado's unexplored region. Witness the majestic Ozare Falls, a 70-meter waterfall plunging from a steep cliff over 100 meters high, a masterpiece shaped by extensive coastal erosion.
*Overnight stay: Sado Island (Aikawa)
Travel by car to join a local guide for a trek through Sado’s pristine virgin forest, home to a group of giant cedar trees believed to be over 500 years old. With a daily limit of 15 visitors, relish the serenity of this untouched natural haven.
As the day transitions to evening, embark on a captivating sightseeing boat excursion to Sotokaifu, Sado's unexplored region. Witness the majestic Ozare Falls, a 70-meter waterfall plunging from a steep cliff over 100 meters high, a masterpiece shaped by extensive coastal erosion.
*Overnight stay: Sado Island (Aikawa)
【DAY3】
Hop in a car and go to Ogi Port for a delightful day of cycling and walking around the Geoparks of Ogi Port, Yajima Island, and Kyojima Island. The undulating coastline, shaped by undersea volcanic activity, unveils a dynamic and unique landscape for exploration.
Following a guided walk through the national Important Preservation Districts for Groups of Traditional Buildings in Shukunegi, once a bustling shipping port in the 17th century, treat yourself to French cuisine featuring local ingredients at a restaurant nestled in a beautifully renovated old private house.
After lunch, engage in a unique Sado Island activity - the hangiri (tub boat) experience. This slow and eco-friendly cruise takes you around the rocky local terrain shaped by the earth over a long period of time.
Next, head to Tatakokan, a Sado Island taiko center run by the globally renowned Kodo taiko performing arts group, for a rhythmic taiko drumming session.
Conclude your day by taking a ferry from Ogi Port to Naoetsu Port, followed by a scenic drive to Myoko.
*Overnight stay: Myoko
Hop in a car and go to Ogi Port for a delightful day of cycling and walking around the Geoparks of Ogi Port, Yajima Island, and Kyojima Island. The undulating coastline, shaped by undersea volcanic activity, unveils a dynamic and unique landscape for exploration.
Following a guided walk through the national Important Preservation Districts for Groups of Traditional Buildings in Shukunegi, once a bustling shipping port in the 17th century, treat yourself to French cuisine featuring local ingredients at a restaurant nestled in a beautifully renovated old private house.
After lunch, engage in a unique Sado Island activity - the hangiri (tub boat) experience. This slow and eco-friendly cruise takes you around the rocky local terrain shaped by the earth over a long period of time.
Next, head to Tatakokan, a Sado Island taiko center run by the globally renowned Kodo taiko performing arts group, for a rhythmic taiko drumming session.
Conclude your day by taking a ferry from Ogi Port to Naoetsu Port, followed by a scenic drive to Myoko.
*Overnight stay: Myoko
【DAY4】
Begin your day by driving to the Tsubame Onsen trailhead to start trekking through Mt. Myoko, ranked as one of the top 100 mountains in Japan. Explore the mesmerizing Shomuo and Komyo Falls at the headwaters of Kita Jigokudani, whose rocky surfaces have been discolored white and reddish brown respectively by the minerals in the hot spring water. Ascend up the mountains’ most popular climbing route, navigating rocky terrain and diverse landscapes, to the summit - a journey of 2,454 meters!
After the mountain adventure, unwind in the soothing hot springs of the Myoko Plateau.
*Overnight stay: Myoko
Begin your day by driving to the Tsubame Onsen trailhead to start trekking through Mt. Myoko, ranked as one of the top 100 mountains in Japan. Explore the mesmerizing Shomuo and Komyo Falls at the headwaters of Kita Jigokudani, whose rocky surfaces have been discolored white and reddish brown respectively by the minerals in the hot spring water. Ascend up the mountains’ most popular climbing route, navigating rocky terrain and diverse landscapes, to the summit - a journey of 2,454 meters!
After the mountain adventure, unwind in the soothing hot springs of the Myoko Plateau.
*Overnight stay: Myoko
【DAY5】
Commence your day at the Myoko Plateau Visitor Center, where a dedicated ranger will enlighten you about the natural resources and ecosystem of Myoko-Togakushi Renzan National Park.
Enjoy a scenic cycling tour through the picturesque landscape of Myoko Plateau. Then visit Sekiyama Shrine, a sacred site of mountain worship. Don't miss the shrine’s kuden, an ancient shrine founded in 708 and recognized as a national Tangible Cultural Property.
Conclude your Myoko journey with a visit to Joetsumyoko Station, setting your course toward Hokuriku, Nagano, or Tokyo.
Commence your day at the Myoko Plateau Visitor Center, where a dedicated ranger will enlighten you about the natural resources and ecosystem of Myoko-Togakushi Renzan National Park.
Enjoy a scenic cycling tour through the picturesque landscape of Myoko Plateau. Then visit Sekiyama Shrine, a sacred site of mountain worship. Don't miss the shrine’s kuden, an ancient shrine founded in 708 and recognized as a national Tangible Cultural Property.
Conclude your Myoko journey with a visit to Joetsumyoko Station, setting your course toward Hokuriku, Nagano, or Tokyo.
Summary
Embarking on an adventure trip to Niigata is a great way to immerse yourself in the distinctive nature, rich history, captivating culture, and delectable cuisine of this snow country! Indulge in a diverse array of activities that will rejuvenate both your mind and body. We invite you to join us and discover the enchanting beauty of Niigata's nature, unfolding its unique charm in every season!