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Agano

Dive into the delightful charm of Agano, Niigata! Here, soothing onsen hot springs bubble amid lush rice fields, while the sweet scent of fresh sake wafts through the air. Stroll along the scenic Agano River, gobbling up local fish dishes and vibrant seasonal festivals. This hidden gem promises a mosaic of flavors and breathtaking views you won’t forget!

Recommendations

Outdoor4.2/5

Lake Hyōko

Outdoor4.3/5

Mt. Gozu

Outdoor3.3/5

五頭薬用植物園

Outdoor3.7/5

Urara Forest, at the foot of Mount Gozu

Landmark4.4/5

新江の桜並木

Culture3.9/5

Suibara Magistrate Office

Culture4.1/5

Suibarahachimangu

Landmark4.3/5

岩瀬の清水

Landmark4.1/5

やすだ瓦ロード

Outdoor4.1/5

Hyokosuikin Park

Culture4/5

Honmyoji Temple

Culture3.3/5

Shinmeigu

Landmark3.5/5

五頭温泉郷旅館協同組合

Landmark4.1/5

Echigo Sakura Sake Brewery

Outdoor3.3/5

Agano River Waterside Plaza Park

Landmark4.6/5

五頭山・五ノ峰

Landmark3.8/5

Road Station Agano

Outdoor3.8/5

Aganoike Park

Shop4.3/5

(有)村秀鬼瓦工房

Eat4.8/5

G.H.Elicarno

Stays

Stay4.5/5

Gozu Imaita Onsen Yumotokan

Stay4.1/5

Fuga No Yado Chouseikan

Stay4.1/5

Kawakamiya Ryokan

Stay3.9/5

Bousenkaku

Stay4.5/5

ふるさとがしのばれる宿角屋旅館

Stay4.5/5

静かな森と文化財離れの宿環翠楼

Stay4.2/5

スワンレイク五十嵐邸ガーデン新潟阿賀野リゾートスノーピークグランピング

Stay4.1/5

Oishiya Inn

Stay3.9/5

Hotel Tsunogami

Stay3.7/5

Yuzuki

Stay3.7/5

Garden Hotel Maryell

Stay3.1/5

Hotel Green Yasuda

Stay

旅館グリーン会館

Things To Do
Provided by

5/5

7 h 30 mins

One-of-a-kind frying pan crafting tour

At the blacksmithing shop with a 150-year history, you can craft your own frying pan out of a piece of iron plate. The entire process, from forging to installing a handle, is completed by your own hands with great care. Furthermore, BBQ with a freshly made frying pan is exceptional. It’ll be fun to use one-of-a-kind frying pan that fits in your hands the more you use it and you can use for your lifetime. Tour guides will take you on a bicycle tour through the streets of Tsubame-Sanjo, showing you local spots where you can meet locals.

$417.35

5/5

3 h 30 mins

Private Guided Japanese Pub Hopping Tour at Furumachidori

Niigata is one of the leading centers of food culture in Japan. While walking through charming avenues, you can feel the atmosphere of old port town and taste many delicious Japanese dishes. Emersed yourself in history as you walk through the Furumachi district of Niigata, which renowned as much as Gion in Kyoto and Shinbashi in Tokyo for it’s Geisha. You can not only enjoy the delicious Japanese food, but also interact with locals! Meeting Niigata residents is an experience you are unlikely to quickly forget. As you stroll through the streets, go into any restaurant that strikes your fancy! Your local guide will make restaurant recommendations and help you order in traditional Japanese restaurants. ・You can enjoy wonderful food and local sake of Niigata.（Beer, wine, and alcoholic/Non-alcoholic beverage are also available.）・As you move between Japanese pubs, experience the charming Niigata streets. ・If you are lucky, you may event pass a Geisha!

$64.21

5/5

1 h 30 mins

Private Japanese Sake Tasting Lecture in Niigata

Freshly prepared Japanese food is waiting for you. Enjoy the rich flavors of Japanese sake while tasting the harmony of Japanese cuisine and rice wine. Learn about the process of making sake and the connection between sake and Japanese people. The fragrance of sake is classified into four categories, each of which will be carefully explained. Learn about which dishes pair well with which kinds of sake. We will also teach you how to order (in Japanese) at a Japanese style pub. Make no mistake. You too will surely be called a connoisseur.

$80.26

5/5

6 h

Niigata Shore Excursion: Custom Car Tour, Licensed Guide

This tour is designed for travelers who visit Nigata City by cruise ship. We will pick you up at Nigata Port or hotels near the port. Nigata City. Niigata is a beautiful city whose northwest faces the Sea of Japan. As one of Japan's leading agricultural cities, Niigata has a beautiful landscape of rice fields, well-known for its sake and rice heritage. Thanks to its abundant nature and perfect climate, Niigata became an agricultural powerhouse and historically acquired a reputation for its plentiful, abundant food output. Let us know what you would like to experience and we will customize a six-hour tour that's best for you! Note*1: Please select your must-see spots from a list in the tour information to create your customized itinerary. Note*2: The National Government Licensed Guide Interpreter certification is issued by the Japanese government requires a good knowledge and understanding of Japanese culture and history.

$402.59

5/5

3 h

Oiran Private Experience and Photoshoot in Niigata

Everyone has heard of Geisha, popular female entertainers in the 19th century Japan. However, before Geisha’s popularity grew, Oiran were considered the trend-setters of the Japanese fashion world. These highly educated women had the precarious nickname Keisei (or Castle-toppler), for their reputation of stealing the hearts of upper-classmen. In Niigata, Oiran were always very popular in the Furumachi area. Today, in the near-by Honcho area there are many places that allow visitors to experience all the splendor of Oiran fashion. Allow yourself to explore your sensuality and project to the world your inner beauty, through the transforming experience of expertly selected dress and make-up. No one has ever walked away unchanged.

$321.04

5/5

10 h

Sado Island in 1 Day by Private Car with Licensed Guide

This value-packed trip with a government-licensed guide and private vehicle is a fantastic and efficient way to explore Sado Island from Niigata City! Sado Island is well known as the “island of exile” or the “island of gold” for being deeply connected with historical figures, tradition, and ancient culture. It’s one of the largest Japanese islands, located 32km off the coast of the Niigata Prefecture. Even with so much to offer its visitors, it remains one of Japan’s best off-the-beaten-path destinations. Please select 3-5 sites from a list in the tour information. Jet Foil Schedule Option ① 07:55 — Depart from Niigata Port 09:02 — Arrive at Ryotsu Port (Sado Island) 16:25 — Depart from Ryotsu Port 17:32 — Arrive at Niigata Port Sightseeing time: approx. 7.5 hours Jet Foil Schedule Option ② 09:40 — Depart from Niigata Port 10:47 — Arrive at Ryotsu Port (Sado Island) 17:55 — Depart from Ryotsu Port 19:02 — Arrive at Niigata Port Sightseeing time: approx. 7 hours

$596.49

5/5

1 h 30 mins

Private Sacred Sake Tasting inside a Shrine

Discover the ancient history of Japanese sake (or rice wine) which dates back to at least 700 AD. Originally only consumed at religious ceremonies, sake was believed to connect individuals to the divine realm. For nearly a millenuim, sake was produced by shrines and temples all over the country. Even now, it is one of the primary offerings to the Shinto gods. Become a part of this rich tradition by tasting the elixir of the Japanese gods in the heart of a Shinto shrine. Learn firsthand the deliciousness of Niigata sake amidst the serene ambiance where tranquility and the essence of the divine converge.

$77.05

5/5

4 h

Niigata Private Customizable Half Day Tour

This private and customizable tour for Niigata is perfect for guests who would like to have their own itinerary planned based on their interests and preferences, allowing guests to experience the city at their own pace.

$200.29

5/5

1 h 30 mins

Niigata: Japanese Seafood Culture & Local Market Walk

Explore the vibrant Pier Bandai market on a guided culinary walk that delves into the heart of Japanese seafood culture. This tour offers an authentic introduction to how fish and shellfish are selected, prepared, and enjoyed in everyday Japanese life. With a knowledgeable local guide, visit the Bandai-jima Fish Market and specialty shops, learning about local seafood favorites like sweet shrimp and salt-cured salmon. The experience includes a dining allowance for sampling various casual eateries, allowing you to enjoy dishes that reflect Niigata’s unique culinary landscape. - Discover the rich seafood traditions of Niigata at Pier Bandai - Guided exploration of the Bandai-jima Fish Market and specialty shops - Learn about local seafood and everyday eating habits in Japan - Enjoy a dining allowance to sample fresh seafood dishes at your leisure

$85.56

4.9/5

6 h

Niigata Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide

This value-packed trip with a government-licensed and experienced multilingual tour guide is a fantastic and efficient way to explore Niigata! Niigata is a beautiful city whose northwest faces the Sea of Japan. As one of Japan's leading agricultural cities, Niigata has a beautiful landscape of rice fields, well-known for its sake and rice heritage. Thanks to its abundant nature and perfect climate, Niigata became an agricultural powerhouse and historically acquired a reputation for its plentiful, abundant food output. Let us know what you would like to experience and we will customize a six-hour tour that's best for you! Note*1: Please select your must-see spots from a list in the tour information to create your customized itinerary. Note*2: The National Government Licensed Guide Interpreter certification is issued by the Japanese government requires a good knowledge and understanding of Japanese culture and history.

$155.38

4.9/5

3 h 30 mins

Historical Walking Tour of Niigata Port Town

In the 1800s, Niigata thrived as a port city. Ships from Russia, China, England, and all over the world came here to trade. Niigata citizens led lucrative lives making their living by shipping cargo and selling local products (mainly agricultural). The city was flooded with sailors from all over the world, allowing Niigata to blend and change with their influence. Join us on a historical walking tour through the old port town Niigata, where we will explore the unique harmony of Western and Japanese cultures that developed in Niigata in the 1800s.

$51.37

3 h

Private Sushi Master Class in Niigata

Make sushi with fresh seasonal fish Every morning the chef visits the market and carefully selects the best local fish for the day. In this course, you can taste Nigita's local fish (for example “Noppe”) that had been caught that very morning. Become an expert of sushi making and eating Did you know that sushi gripping method differs depending on the ingredients? You must subtly change the force of your grip and the manner of your grasp. A professional sushi chef will give an easy to understand lecture on all the secrets! You can become a sushi-grip expert!

$166.94

7 h 30 mins

Private Day Tour through Niigata City (History, Sushi, and Sake)

Take the afternoon to explore Niigata Island. Start by learning the history of the Port Town, as you stroll through time along what used to be old canals! Then taste the delicious local fish as you learn to make your very own sushi! Lastly, be washed away by the harmony of delicious Niigata Sake and delicate appetizers made from local ingredients.

$211.89

8 h

Niigata Private Customizable Full Day Tour

$286.13

1 h

DIY Japanese Wind-Chime Workshop

Step into a traditional Japanese shrine, a rare experience even for locals. Immerse yourself in crafting a beautiful windchime, a tangible reminder of your journey. This glass bell captures Japanese craftsmanship and resonates with memories of your adventure. Take it home, let its melodious chime echo your unforgettable Japanese escapade.

$64.21

6 h

Private Niigata Shore Excursion Your Own Pace

Please note that even if you select “Tour Language: English(written),” the driver speaks Japanese only. Communication will be supported using a translation app, and English tour information will be provided in advance. Discover the charm of Niigata with this private shore excursion tailored for cruise passengers. Enjoy a flexible itinerary that showcases historic landmarks, traditional architecture, and local culture while traveling in a comfortable private vehicle. With dedicated round-trip transport from Niigata Port, this experience allows you to explore at your leisure without the constraints of larger group tours. Perfect for couples, families, and small groups, this tour ensures comfort and efficiency, with a timely return to the port for your cruise. - Private vehicle for a relaxed and personalized tour experience - Explore Niigata's historic sites and local culture at your own pace - Ideal for couples, families, and small groups seeking comfort

$612.08

6 h

Niigata Private Custom Tour with Local Guide

Uncover the beauty and culture surrounding Niigata with a knowledgeable guide. Start your adventure by visiting the historic Yahiko Shrine, nestled in the foothills of Mount Yahiko, where you can enjoy the serene atmosphere and panoramic views from the mountaintop via ropeway. Explore the charming streets of Tsubame-Sanjo, famous for its high-quality metalcrafts and traditional workshops, and learn about the craftsmanship that defines the area. Enjoy a peaceful stroll along the coast at the scenic Teradomari area, known for its seafood market, or relax at one of the local onsen hot springs. Our guides provide in-depth knowledge of the local history and traditions, ensuring a deeper understanding of the region. Public transportation will be used to fully immerse yourself in the local experience, but private vehicle arrangements can be made upon request. Join us for a memorable journey through the scenic and cultural highlights just outside Niigata City!

$192.62

4 h

Niigata Sake Brewery Food Private Tour with Licensed Guide

Discover the sake heritage of Niigata, widely regarded as Japan's premier sake producing region, on this relaxed private walking tour led by a friendly, government licensed local guide. Niigata's cold, snowy winters, pure water and high quality rice create its famously clean, crisp and dry 'tanrei karakuchi' sake. Starting near Niigata Station, visit Ponshukan, a unique tasting hall where you can sample a vast selection of local brews from across the prefecture, then tour a historic working sake brewery to see how premium sake is crafted and enjoy a guided tasting. Throughout the day your guide shares the stories and food pairings behind Niigata's beloved sake. Because this is a private tour, the pace and route are yours: linger where you like, ask all the questions you want, and customize the day to your tastes. Whether you are a curious first-timer or a passionate sake lover, it is a warm, local way to experience Niigata.

$105.94

6 h

Niigata 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide & Vehicle

Step into the heart of Niigata on this private, fully guided day tour led by a government-licensed guide, with your own private vehicle and driver. Niigata grew rich as one of Japan's first international ports and as the gateway to the country's finest rice and sake, and this tour brings that story to life. Begin at Hakusan Shrine, the city's spiritual heart, then explore the grand Northern Culture Museum, former estate of Niigata's wealthiest landowning family. Wander the lively Pia Bandai market and the historic geisha quarter of Furumachi, and step inside the Imayo Tsukasa sake brewery to taste crisp local brews born of pure water and premium rice. Take in sweeping views from the Befco Bakauke Observatory atop Toki Messe, admire the Meiji-era Former Niigata Customs Office on the Shinano River, and browse the Honcho market. With hotel pickup, a flexible customizable route and an expert guide, you'll discover the best of Niigata in comfort and at your own pace.

$402.59

8 h

Niigata 8hr Private Tour with Licensed Guide and Vehicle

Spend a full day discovering Niigata, the elegant port city on the Sea of Japan, with your own government-licensed guide and a private vehicle. Set the pace and explore in depth, from sacred shrines to sake and seafood. Begin at Hakusan Shrine, dedicated to matchmaking, then tour the magnificent former Ito family mansion and gardens at the Northern Culture Museum. Wander the historic geisha district of Furumachi, visit the centuries-old Imayo Tsukasa sake brewery for a tasting, and take in panoramic views from the free Befco Bakauke observation room at Toki Messe. Learn the city's history at Minatopia and the former Niigata Customs House, browse the lively Honcho market, and admire the elegant six-arch Bandai Bridge. With a private guide and vehicle throughout, the itinerary is fully customisable, making it ideal for travellers who want to experience the culture, history and flavours of Niigata in comfort.