2025 Sado Travel Guide: Must-see attractions, popular food, hotels, transportation routes (updated in May)

#100 Ways to Travel #SADO A beautiful moment on Sado Island in Niigata, Japan. look! The bright red arched bridge looks like it came out of a fairy tale. It spans the water and is surrounded by greenery. It makes people want to shout: "It's so beautiful here!" Several traditional pot boats are on the water. The water is leisurely and leisurely, and the tourists sitting inside are happily enjoying this unique boating experience. The rowers on the boat are local people wearing traditional clothes, like time travelers from ancient times! ### How to get there Want to reach Sado Island? Taking a ferry from Niigata City takes about one hour, and it feels like you are enjoying a sea cruise! If you want to go faster, you can also choose to fly from Niigata Airport. The flight time is only 30 minutes. It’s like taking an airbus, which is super convenient! ### Business hours The tubing experience here is open from 9 am to 5 pm every day. It is recommended to make a reservation in advance to avoid crying like me because there is no place (I really will cry). There may be changes during holidays or peak seasons, so it’s best to check for the latest information before departure so that you can be a smart traveler! ### cost The experience fee is only 700 yen (approximately NT$140) per person. The price is so cheap that I want to sign up immediately! This fee includes paddlers in traditional costumes rowing for you, allowing you to relax and enjoy the beautiful scenery on the water. It’s a great deal! ### Experience This pot boat experience made me feel the close contact with nature. Sitting on the boat, the gentle whisper of the water waves came to my ears, and I felt instantly relaxed! Watching the paddlers in traditional costumes rowing intently, as if participating in a water show, I couldn't help but want to shout: "This is my wonderland!" Every paddle is like saying hello to the small fish in the water. This is not only a visual feast, but also a spiritual journey. This experience gave me a deeper understanding and love for Sado Island. It is simply a little secret in my heart, waiting for you to discover!

This is a facility on Sado Island in Niigata Prefecture where you can meet Japanese crested ibises. It is divided into the "Toki Material Exhibition Hall" and the "Toki Interaction Plaza." The "Toki Material Exhibition Hall" is a facility where you can learn about time, including conservation and breeding, and reintroduction into the wild. At the "Toki Interaction Plaza" we had the rare experience of actually seeing a crested ibis. The park is spacious and worth seeing, and it was a lot of fun. If you're visiting Sado Island, be sure to stop by! ୨୧――――――――――――――――――୨୧ information Name of facility📍Toki no Mori Park Address📍383-2 Nagane, Niiho, Sado City, Niigata Prefecture Access📍Approximately 15 minutes by car from Ryotsu Port Opening hours📍8:30-17:00 (last entrance 16:30) Closed📍Open every day from March to November/Closed every Monday from December to February (next day if Monday falls on a public holiday) New Year's holiday Admission fee (environmental conservation cooperation fee)📍400 yen for adults, 100 yen for children ୨୧――――――――――――――――――୨୧ #Interacting with animals/Zoos #100 Travel Styles #Domestic Travel #Japan #Toki no Mori Park #Sado Island #Niigata Prefecture #Niigata Tourism

A must-visit spot on Sado Island! Introducing some spectacular ocean photo spots ✍🏻 (All photos taken in July-August 2024) ＿＿＿＿＿＿＿＿＿＿＿＿＿＿＿＿＿ 　 This is Sado Island in Niigata Prefecture The Sado Gold Mine has just been registered as a World Heritage Site, and it's a very popular spot right now! 🏆 Many locals welcomed us at the port and handed out Kanayama stickers and Sado milk🕊️ Congratulations👏🏻✨ ＿＿＿＿＿＿＿＿＿＿＿＿＿＿＿＿ ▼ sᴘᴏᴛ 📷 ① Seai bus stop ② Yajima Tourist Tarai Boat Dock ③ Rikiya Tourist Tarai Boat and Tourist Boat Dock ④ Ameya Pier ⑤ Ameya Pier ⑥ Sado Kisen ⑦ Sado Kisen ＿＿＿＿＿＿＿＿＿＿＿＿＿＿＿＿＿＿ ✍🏻 ᴛʀɪᴘ ᴛɪᴘs ˊ˗ When you think of Sado, you think of tarai boats! You can have a Spirited Away-like experience 🚏 There are three places in total where you can ride a tub boat 🚣♂️ Among them, the "Yajima Tourist Tarai Boat Pier" is marked by a red bridge that connects Yajima and Keijima 🌁 I wanted to take a photo of this red bridge and the tub boat, so I decided that I would definitely ride the tub boat here! ＿＿＿＿＿＿＿＿＿＿＿＿＿＿＿＿ #Domestic travel #Niigata tourism #Niigata trip #Sea photo

●Name Hachiman Onsen Hachimankan ●Access 2043 Hachiman, Sado City, Niigata Prefecture 🚗Private parking available ●Points Located in the center of Sado, this is a hot spring inn suitable for those who want to enjoy sightseeing Although it is a traditional inn, it is an inn where Emperor Showa and other members of the imperial family have stayed Above all, the hot springs here are great♨️ If you want a hot spring in Sado that feels good on your skin, this is the place to go When I come to Sado, I always want to eat outside I stayed here with a plan that does not include meals Sado's fresh seafood is good value for money and I want to eat it heartily😅 #Domestic travel #Niigata #Sado #Hot springs #Inn

●Name Kitazawa Flotation Plant ●Access 2 Aikawa Kitazawa-cho, Sado City, Niigata Prefecture 🚗Private parking available ●Points The feeling of the ruins covered in greenery is like Laputa!? This is one of the facilities that contributed to modernization Kitazawa Flotation Plant The Kitazawa Flotation Plant was said to be the "best in the Orient" because it could process more than 50,000 tons of ore in a month You can visit for free 24 hours a day, and it seems to be lit up occasionally The sunset seen from nearby was very beautiful #Domestic travel#Niigata #Sado #Tourism

●Name Shukunegi ●Access Shukunegi, Sado City, Niigata Prefecture 🚗Private parking available ●Points Shukunegi, a village in the port town of Sado You can enjoy the townscape that gives you a sense of the past and the lives of the people It is also characterized by its high-density townscape with over 100 houses It has been designated as a nationally important traditional buildings preservation district You will feel a strange sensation as if you have traveled back in time For those who want to see the inside of the historic buildings, three buildings, "Seikuro", "Kanekoya" and "Mitsukakuya", are open to the public and can be visited for a fee Highlights are... The Western-style "Old Shukunegi Post Office" "Shukunegi Public Hall" with a Showa retro atmosphere "Hakusan Shrine", a tangible cultural property designated by Sado City, etc. ※Local residents also live here ※Please observe etiquette when sightseeing #Domestic travel#Niigata #Sado Island #Tourism

●Name Kitayuki Sake Brewery ●Access 2377-2 Tokuwa, Sado City, Niigata Prefecture 🚗Private parking available ●Points Kitayuki Sake Brewery is a sake brewery with a history of about 150 years since its founding in 1872. This sake is a world-famous sake brewery that has an exclusive contract to supply sake to the global restaurant NOBU. You can tour the brewery and, of course, sample the sake. This storehouse has a unique style of aging the sake by playing classical music for 24 hours, so there is a lot to learn from that. The driver is provided with apple juice, which is very delicious. It is unfortunate that it is not sold and is prepared for the driver who is tasting the sake. Of course, the sake is excellent, so there are many types of one-cup sake, so why not buy one as a souvenir? Please note that there are no one-cup sakes offered at NOBU. #Domestic travel#Niigata #Sado Island #Sake

#japanhotel This time I stayed at Tabino Hotel Sado, which is about a 15-minute drive from Hazu Pier.  There are free parking lots, gas stations, and convenience stores nearby, which is very convenient👍 The room is clean and tidy, and staff cleans the room every day. You must try the hotel dinner, the Sado natural amberjack bowl and desserts are very delicious😋😋😋

📍Rikiya Tourist Steamship 1935 Ogimachi, Sado City, Niigata Prefecture Free parking Boat ticket (Tarai-bune) 700 yen/adult Speaking of leisure and activities in Sado!! Tarai-bune♥️ You've probably seen it once in a picture book or something, a tarai-bune😊 and you can experience it in Sado🙌 You can have the rare experience of walking on the sea in a tarai-bune(*´ω`*) The weather is just right in autumn, so it must be nice🍁 #Autumn trip #Sado #Remote island tourism

I've picked out 6 recommended spots on Sado Island in Niigata that I'm glad I visited! ① Kitazawa Flotation Plant Ruins ② Sado Gold Mine ③ Sado Nishimikawa Gold Park ④ Tarai Fune Rikiya Sightseeing Steamship ⑤ Toki no Mori Park ⑥ Nanaura Beach If you're heading out to Sado Island, be sure to visit these spots 🤗 #RecommendedList #Niigata #SadoIsland #RemoteIslandTrip

Sado Nishimikawa Gold Park on Sado Island is the only place on the island where you can experience gold dust panning! It's a little difficult, but anyone can mine gold dust! You can also have the gold dust you collect processed on the spot and take it home with you 🙆‍♀️ It was a special experience! Access: 835-1 Nishimikawa, Sado City, Niigata Prefecture #Niigata #SadoIsland #SadoGoldMine #RemoteIslandTrip

On Sado Island, there is a park that raises the natural monument "Toki" 😊 The park has the "Toki Materials Exhibition Hall" and the "Toki Interaction Plaza". At the "Toki Interaction Plaza", you can see rare sights such as the birds taking off from their cages ✨ Access: 383-2 Nagane, Niiho, Sado City, Niigata Prefecture #Niigata #SadoIsland #RemoteIslandTrip #Toki

A famous tourist attraction on Sado Island is the "Tarai-bune" (tub boat). A female boatman will operate the tub, allowing you to enjoy a short boat trip😊 This tub is for tourism purposes and is made a little larger. I took over from the boatman and rowed the tub boat...it was heavy and difficult💦 Access: 1935 Ogi-cho, Sado City, Niigata Prefecture #Niigata #Sado Island #Remote Island Trip #Tarai-bune

Sado Gold Mine is a gold mine that is said to have been opened in 1601. Unfortunately, it ceased operations in March 1989 due to resource depletion, but it has a long history spanning nearly 400 years. When you enter the mine, you can see exhibits showing the state of gold mining at the time, so you can get a feel for what it was like back then 😌 Access: 1305 Shimoaikawa, Sado City, Niigata Prefecture #Niigata #Sado Island #Sado Gold Mine #Gold Mine #Remote Island Trip

The Kitazawa Flotation Plant on Sado Island, Niigata, is a hot topic because it looks like Laputa 😌✨ It is also famous as the "largest flotation plant in the Orient" and a symbol of modern heritage, as the gold mined at the Sado Gold Mine was sorted in a large facility. It was a spectacular sight up close!! How to get there: Aikawa District, Sado City, Niigata Prefecture #Niigata #Sado Island #Amazing view #Remote island trip

Nanaura Beach on Sado Island is a famous spot for its beautiful sunsets! 😊 It is a 10km coastline that spans seven villages from Shikabushi to Futami in the Aikawa district. You can also see the Meoto Iwa rocks, and enjoy a romantic view✨ How to get there: Futami, Sado City, Niigata Prefecture - Oura, Aikawa #Niigata #Sado Island #Remote Island Trip #Trip to Enjoy Spring

#Summer trip Sado Island can be reached by ferry from Niigata. The ruins of the Sado Gold Mine, also known as Japan's Laputa Castle in the Sky. At night, the area is lit up, creating a fantastical sight. #Historic site with a sense of history#Summer trip#Breathtaking views

🚩Niigata 📍Ikutopia Shokuhana 📍Niigata Prefectural Museum of Natural Science 🍴Firepit Wood-Grilled Italian Restaurant 🚩Sado Island 📍Historic Site: Sado Gold Mine 📍National Historic Site: Kitazawa Flotation Plant Ruins 📍Sawada Coast 📍Toki no Mori Park 🍴Kitchen Yorokkonde Harakuro 🍴Kappo Goshima 🍴Saredo Onigiri🍙

About 12 minutes walk from Sado Ferry Terminal. An inn with a Japanese-style gate. You will be greeted by wonderful hospitality. The room has a Japanese atmosphere with tatami mats. There are three room ranks, and I stayed in the middle rank room, but it was so spacious that I couldn't use it all. Even the lowest rank is 10 tatami mats, which is quite spacious compared to other hotels, so I thought this might be a good choice for solo travelers! The rice is Sado-produced Koshihikari rice cooked in a clay pot, so the side dishes are delicious. I was so excited when a crab came out 🦀 It was so delicious that I had a second helping of the clay pot lol The spectacular view from the room and the two types of hot springs, the open-air bath and the large bath, are also worth seeing. We recommend this place because you can rent bicycles and it's easy to explore the surrounding area. 📍Address: 261-1 Ryotsui, Sado City, Niigata Prefecture, 952-0011 💰Price per person: From 15,000 yen #0 yen trip #Sado City #Sado #recommended accommodation

Sado Gold Mine was registered as a World Heritage Site last year. It is a place that once supported the finances of the Edo Shogunate. Many people would like to go there. Currently, there are no regular flights to Sado Airport, but it can be accessed by boat from Niigata or Naoetsu. It takes just a little over an hour by high-speed boat from Niigata Port to Ryotsu Port. From there it is about an hour by bus to Sado Gold Mine. There are two types of tunnels, one from the Edo period and one from the Meiji period, and it costs 1000 yen to visit either one, and 1500 yen to visit both. It would be good to go into both and compare the difference. There are also interesting remains of the trolley tracks, which were very worth seeing. Why not give it a visit? #Spring0YenTrip

#Spring0yenTrip Sado Island is a remote island about 2.5 hours away by ferry from Niigata. The first place we visited when we arrived on Sado Island was a crested ibis breeding facility. Although we were not able to see wild crested ibises, it was a valuable experience to see their beautiful appearance at a facility where conservation activities are carried out. After that, we went to Sado Gold Mine and were able to feel the history. We visited the remains of the gold mining site and thought about the old mining techniques and the lives of the people who worked at the gold mine. On the way back, we saw many seagulls gathering and chasing after the boat, which was very fun and helped us to take a break during our sea trip. Sado Island is a place where nature and history are beautifully integrated, and it was a memorable trip.

Sado Island in Niigata Prefecture is a captivating remote island where beautiful nature and unique culture blend together. One of the most famous attractions is the 'Tarai-bune Experience,' where you can enjoy the crystal-clear sea while riding in a round wooden tub boat. Additionally, at Sado Kinzan (Sado Gold Mine), there are tourist courses where you can learn about the history of gold mining during the Edo period. Sado Island is also rich in nature, with numerous scenic spots such as 'Onogame' and 'Futatsugame.' Especially from spring to summer, you have the chance to see the Japanese crested ibis (Toki), Japan's national bird. The island's cuisine is also appealing, offering fresh seafood and Sado-produced sake. Access is convenient, with ferries or jetfoils from Niigata Port taking about 1 to 2 hours. Using a car or rental bicycle allows you to efficiently tour the island.

#Spring0yenTrip Sado Gold Mine has played an important role in the history of Japan, and visiting its ruins and cultural assets allowed me to reflect on the former prosperity of the gold mine and the harsh life of the workers. When I arrived at the mine, I was amazed at its vastness. The mountains are dotted with ruins of mines and old buildings, and the scenery reminds me of the mining of the time. The biggest attraction of visiting Sado Gold Mine is that you can actually see its historical background and the mining technology and life of the time. In particular, the tour where you can actually walk inside the mine was very impressive. As I walked through the narrow and humid space, I was reminded of the harsh environment of the people who worked there and how important an industry gold mining was. In addition, the exhibition hall displayed tools and ores excavated from the mine, as well as valuable materials that tell the story of life at that time, allowing me to learn history visually. The mine is surrounded by abundant nature, and I was able to spend a quiet time enjoying the beautiful scenery. It was a very satisfying visit to a place where history and nature are in perfect harmony. Visiting the Sado Gold Mine allowed me to think deeply about the history and industrial progress of Japan, and it was a valuable experience. This is not just a tourist spot, but a place where you can feel the weight of history. I hope that many more people will continue to learn about the charms of this place. #SadoGoldMine #HistoricalHeritage #JapaneseIndustry #GoldMineHistory #SadoTourism

"Through the long tunnel of the county border, there is the snow country. Under the night sky, it's a vast expanse of white." Kawabata Yasunari's "Snow Country" depicts the beauty of Niigata as a dreamlike fantasy. Located in the north-central part of Honshu Island, Japan, this place not only has stunning snow scenery but also unique charm in all four seasons. Today, let's take you to Niigata and embark on an unforgettable journey🧳 Climate and Temperature Niigata has a temperate oceanic climate with four distinct seasons. Spring (March-May) sees gradually rising temperatures, averaging 10-20°C, with cherry blossoms in full bloom🌸. Summer (June-August) is relatively hot and humid, averaging 25-30°C, but the coastal location brings a cooling sea breeze. Autumn (September-November) averages 15-25°C, with colorful autumn leaves covering the mountains🍁. Winter (December-February) is Niigata's most beautiful season, averaging 0-5°C, with heavy snowfall transforming the landscape into a fairy tale world, perfect for snow viewing and skiing. Must-See Attractions • Kiyotsu Gorge: One of Japan's "Three Great Gorges," approximately 12 km long. Steep cliffs flank the gorge, with the Kiyotsu River flowing through it. Stroll along the Kiyotsu Gorge Tunnel, a roughly 1-hour walk with four viewing points. The panoramic view at the end is the best, especially the winter snow scene, making you feel like you've stepped into a frozen wonderland. • Naeba Ski Resort: This resort boasts high-quality natural powder snow, with a long ski season lasting until early May. As the largest independent resort in the area, the longest ski run stretches over 6,000 meters. Whether you're a skiing expert or a beginner, you can find suitable slopes and enjoy the thrill of skiing🏂. • Sado Island: Take a ferry from Niigata Port to this island, which preserves pristine natural scenery and a simple fishing village atmosphere. Visit the remains of the gold mine to learn about Japan's gold rush history, or stroll along the beach, admire the beautiful seascape, and feel the gentle sea breeze. Food Recommendations • Red Snow Crab: The red snow crab from the Sea of Japan is of excellent quality. At "Kani-ya Yokocho" (Crab Alley), you can enjoy freshly caught crabs at reasonable prices, satisfying your crab cravings🦀. Choose from various cooking methods, such as steaming or sashimi, to savor the delicious crab meat. • Seaweed Soba Noodles: A specialty of Uonuma City, Niigata, these soba noodles are made with seaweed called "funori," cut into pieces, and served in "hegi" bowls. The unique flavor and smooth, chewy texture are incredibly satisfying🍜. • Sake: Niigata is Japan's rice-producing region, and the sake brewed with local rice is rich and fragrant. At the Ponshukan Sake Museum inside Echigo-Yuzawa Station, you can sample over a hundred kinds of Niigata sake, many of which are limited editions. 500 yen gets you 5 coins for tasting, so don't miss it🍶. Important Notes • Transportation: Niigata doesn't have a subway. Bus routes are limited, infrequent, and expensive. Unless you're staying near the central area, renting a car is recommended. The Joetsu Shinkansen from Tokyo to Niigata City takes less than 2 hours. For other attractions, choose buses or trains based on your needs. • Ski Safety: Choose reputable ski resorts and familiarize yourself with slope difficulty and safety rules beforehand. Select slopes according to your ability, and always wear helmets and other protective gear. Avoid venturing into undeveloped areas. • Documents and Valuables: Carry your passport, ID card, and other important documents with you, and keep copies. Safeguard your belongings and be vigilant against theft in crowded areas. Niigata, this charming place, offers both stunning natural landscapes and tempting cuisine. Pack your bags and come discover your own beauty here💕.

Hey everyone👋, today I'm sharing a hidden gem in Japan—Niigata. You can experience its beautiful scenery and delicious food in just two days and one night. Save this post now! Itinerary Day 1: Niigata Station → Hakusan Park → Hakusan Shrine → Northern Culture Museum, Niigata Branch → Furumachi Shopping Street → JR-EAST HOTEL METS NIIGATA Morning: Arrive at Niigata Station and take a stroll through Hakusan Park, breathe in the fresh air, and enjoy the beautiful scenery of the four seasons🌳 Lunch: Enjoy buckwheat noodles and "Sasazushi" at a Japanese restaurant in the city center for a truly satisfying and authentic culinary experience🍜 Afternoon: Visit Hakusan Shrine, immerse yourself in the ancient atmosphere, and pray for peace; then head to the Northern Culture Museum, Niigata Branch, to learn about the history of Niigata's cultural development📚 Evening: Explore the unique shops in Furumachi Shopping Street and buy souvenirs; check in to JR-EAST HOTEL METS NIIGATA, a modern, comfortable, and safe hotel🛏️ Day 2: Niigata Port Observation Deck → Sado Island (optional) → Niigata City Aquarium → Bandai Bridge → Shinano River → Niigata Station Morning: Visit the Niigata Port Observation Deck for a panoramic view of the harbor and the vastness of the sea🌊 If time permits, take a ferry to Sado Island and enjoy the seascape Lunch: Have a seafood bowl at the seafood market near the port. It's incredibly fresh!🦀 Afternoon: Visit the Niigata City Aquarium and get up close and personal with marine life; in the evening, stroll along Bandai Bridge and the Shinano River, admire the stunning river views, and take amazing photos📸 Evening: Buy local specialties such as Koshihikari rice and sake as souvenirs near Niigata Station before heading back Food Recommendations 🥢Ryu Sushi: Highly recommended by Chua Lam, the sushi here offers a perfect combination of color, aroma, and taste. The ingredients are fresh, and the price is amazing, with 12 pieces for only JPY 4,500! 🥢Miyano-ya: Enjoy chewy buckwheat noodles made with locally sourced ingredients from Minamiuonuma, offering an excellent dining experience 🥢Seafood Market: A wide variety of crabs, oysters, and seafood bowls are available. Buy and eat fresh seafood on the spot Accommodation Guide 🏨JR-EAST HOTEL METS NIIGATA: Excellent location, convenient transportation, comprehensive facilities, and attentive service 🏨Hotel Nikko Niigata: With a Nordic style reminiscent of a luxury cruise ship, this hotel offers stunning views of the Shinano River and Bandaijima Island, along with exquisite dining options 🏨Iwamura Onsen Ryokan Fujiya: A historic hot spring resort with clear, mineral-rich water, offering a delightful experience of Japanese-style accommodation and hot spring baths So, what are you waiting for? Plan your trip to Niigata and embark on an unforgettable journey💖

Niigata. You might be more familiar with its older romanization, "Niigata," but "Niigata" is becoming increasingly common these days. Speaking of Niigata, we have to mention a few key elements. ❄️Snow Niigata is one of the snowiest regions in Japan. This is mainly due to its unique geographical environment. Cold air from Siberia meets the warm waters of the Sea of Japan, and upon encountering the mountainous terrain, the moist air rises rapidly and cools, resulting in heavy snowfall. 🌾Rice Among Niigata rice, the most prestigious is Koshihikari, which has become synonymous with premium Japanese rice. Since 1989, Koshihikari rice produced in the Uonuma region of Niigata Prefecture has been rated as Special A grade rice by the Japan Grain Inspection Association for many years. Niigata Prefecture has abundant snowmelt. When spring arrives, the snowmelt carries nutrients from the mountains and irrigates the rice paddies. At the same time, the area has long sunshine hours and a large temperature difference between day and night, which is conducive to the accumulation of starch in the rice, providing unique environmental conditions for the growth of delicious rice. 🐦Crested Ibis In 1981, only five wild crested ibises remained on Sado Island, Japan. After that, Japan tried to borrow crested ibises from China for breeding. In 1998, in response to the Japanese people's desire, China decided to donate a pair of crested ibises to Japan. In January 1999, "You You" and "Yang Yang" arrived at the Sado Crested Ibis Conservation Center. In May of the same year, they hatched their first child, "You You," and the good news spread throughout Japan. ⛰️Mount Myoko: Known as the "Mount Fuji of Echigo," it has an altitude of 2,454 meters and is one of Japan's 100 Famous Mountains. It is also a famous ski resort. Myoko Plateau, Niigata Prefecture 🏝️Sado Island: The sixth largest island in Japan, the island has attractions such as the Sado Gold Mine and was once an important gold producing area in Japan. Sado Island

| A hidden gem in Hokuriku, Japan. Niigata | A hidden gem in Hokuriku, Japan✨ 🌊【Sado Island: Encounter Stunning Island Scenery】 To get to Sado Island, you first need to take a ferry. As the ferry slowly approaches the island, the sea breeze carries the unique salty scent of the ocean, instantly blowing away the fatigue of the journey. As soon as I disembarked, I was amazed by the scenery before my eyes. In Aikawa Port, the ancient streets and wooden buildings are full of the charm of the Edo period, as if traveling back in time. Strolling along the streets, you can see many traditional craft shops. Sado's gold mine crafts are quite famous, and the exquisite gold leaf products shimmer with a captivating glow under the sunlight. Buying a few as souvenirs is perfect🎁. What impressed me the most was visiting Sado Yahiko Shrine. The shrine is located by the sea, surrounded by lush mountains and forests. Walking up the long stone steps, my heart was filled with awe. Here, you can not only appreciate the exquisite beauty of traditional Japanese architecture but also overlook the stunning sea view. At sunset, the afterglow of the setting sun sprinkles on the sea, creating a shimmering effect. The whole world is dyed golden yellow, and the magnificence and tranquility make me linger, reluctant to leave🌅. ❄️【Echigo-Yuzawa: A Dreamy Snow Country in Winter】 Niigata is a prefecture known for heavy snowfall in Japan, and Echigo-Yuzawa is the perfect place to experience the charm of a snow country. As soon as I got off the train, I was stunned by the white world in front of me. The entire town was covered with thick snow, like a dream kingdom in a fairy tale. The ski resorts here are a paradise for ski lovers🎿, with everything from beginner slopes to advanced slopes. Whether you're a novice or a skiing expert, you can find your own joy here. I put on my ski gear and sped down the slopes, feeling the wind whistling past my ears. The feeling of freedom and exhilaration was truly fantastic! Besides skiing, there's another experience not to be missed in Echigo-Yuzawa - hot springs. After a tiring day of play, jump into a steaming hot spring and let the warm spring water envelop you, instantly dispelling the day's fatigue. Looking at the snowy scenery outside through the steam of the hot spring pool, this is probably the most pleasant time in winter♨️. 🍚【Food Exploration: The Taste of Niigata on the Tip of Your Tongue】 Every bite of Niigata's cuisine allows you to experience the bounty of this land. First and foremost is Niigata rice! This is a famous rice-producing area in Japan. The cooked rice is plump, sweet, and soft. Just eating plain rice can make you feel incredibly happy🍚. Sushi made with Niigata rice is even more delicious. Fresh sashimi paired with sweet rice, one bite is full of the flavors of the sea and the land. There's also Niigata's special ramen, which is completely different from ramen in other places. The rich and mellow pork bone broth, paired with firm and smooth noodles, plus tender and juicy char siu and crisp side dishes, every bite is irresistible. On a cold winter day, a bowl of steaming hot ramen is truly satisfying🥢. Of course, Niigata's seafood is also not to be missed. At the fish market, all kinds of fresh sea fish and shellfish are dazzling. Buy some on the spot and have the shop simply process them, and you can taste the most authentic seafood. The fresh and sweet taste still lingers in my memory🦀. This trip to Niigata was truly a journey of discovery full of surprises. Its tranquility, its beauty, and its cuisine have all captivated me. My friends, if you also want to escape the hustle and bustle and find a unique and niche travel destination, Niigata is definitely a top choice! Trust me, once you step on this land, you will fall in love with it💖!

In the north-central part of Honshu, Japan, lies a city favored by nature and history—Niigata. With magnificent mountains, lakes, a rich cultural atmosphere, and mouthwatering cuisine, it's a travel destination worth exploring. Follow this guide to embark on your Niigata adventure!🌄 I. Climate and Best Time to Visit Niigata has a temperate monsoon climate with four distinct seasons. Spring (March-May) sees temperatures between 5°C and 15°C, with gradually warming weather and cherry blossoms in full bloom, making it a great time for cherry blossom viewing. However, the temperature difference between day and night is significant, so remember to bring a jacket. Summer (June-August) offers cooler temperatures between 15°C and 25°C, making it an ideal summer retreat. Occasional heavy rain may occur, so remember to check the weather forecast. Autumn (September-November) boasts temperatures between 5°C and 15°C, with colorful autumn leaves, making it a perfect time for viewing foliage and enjoying various autumn delicacies. Winter (December-February) experiences temperatures between -5°C and 5°C, with heavy snowfall, transforming the city into a winter wonderland and a paradise for ski enthusiasts. Ensure you have adequate warm clothing. Overall, spring, autumn, and winter offer unique scenery, so you can choose your travel time based on your preferences.❄️🌸🍁 II. Must-See Attractions 1. Kiyotsu Gorge: One of Japan's "Three Great Gorges," Kiyotsu Gorge stretches for about 12 km, with cliffs on both sides and the Kiyotsu River flowing through it. The winter snowscape resembles a fairy tale world, and there's also the modern art installation "Tunnel of Light." From Echigo-Yuzawa Station, take the express bus towards Mori Miyanohara, get off at Kiyotsu Gorge Entrance bus stop (approx. 25 mins), and walk for 30 mins. Admission: Adults 1,000 yen/Children 400 yen.🚗 2. Naeba Ski Resort: The largest independent resort in the Niigata area, Naeba boasts excellent snow quality and complete facilities. The longest ski run is over 6,000m, suitable for skiers of all levels, and there's a dedicated children's ski area. It's about a 30-minute drive from the Yuzawa IC on the Kan-Etsu Expressway. Adult cable car ticket price: 3,800 yen/Children 2,200 yen.🎿 3. Yahiko Park: Yahiko Shrine within the park is a famous shrine in Japan, attracting numerous visitors daily with its exquisite architecture. Climb the adjacent Mount Yahiko for panoramic views of the beautiful countryside. It's a 1-minute walk from Yahiko Station on the JR Yahiko Line.⛩️ 4. Teramachi Fish Market: This small street with only 11 seafood restaurants is quite famous. Here, you can enjoy fresh seafood like crab and oysters and experience the lively market atmosphere. From JR Nagaoka Station, take the Echigo Kotsu bus towards Sakaecho and get off at Uomachi-dori.🦀 5. Sado Island: The island boasts beautiful natural scenery, including stunning beaches, ancient mines, and the rare Japanese crested ibis. Take a ferry from JR Niigata Station to Niigata Port, and arrive at Ryotsu Port on Sado Island. On the island, you can rent a car or join a local day trip.🚢 III. Recommended Local Cuisine 1. Koshihikari Rice Dishes: Niigata is known as Japan's rice kingdom, and Koshihikari rice is renowned for its soft, sweet, and glutinous texture. Try Koshihikari rice sushi and rice balls for a simple yet exquisite taste.🍙 2. Seafood Bowls: With its coastal location, seafood is a must-try in Niigata. Fresh salmon, sweet shrimp, tuna, and other seafood are served over rice, offering a delightful culinary experience.🦐 3. Niigata Ramen: Unlike ramen in other regions, Niigata ramen features chewy noodles and a rich broth, usually tonkotsu or soy sauce-based, topped with ingredients like chashu pork and egg, leaving a lasting impression.🍜 4. Sake: Niigata has a long history of sake brewing and produces high-quality sake. Visit local breweries to explore the intricate sake brewing process and sample various sake flavors.🍶 IV. Travel Tips 1. Transportation: The Joetsu Shinkansen provides easy access to Niigata from Tokyo. There are also direct flights from Shanghai to Niigata, with a flight time of approx. 2.5 hrs. Within Niigata City, buses and JR lines are the main modes of transportation, but some routes have limited services, so check the timetable in advance. To reach Sado Island, take a ferry. On the island, you can rent a car or join a day trip.🚉 2. Language: The main language is Japanese, and English proficiency is not widespread. Download a translation app or prepare a Japanese phrasebook.🗣️ 3. Currency: The Japanese yen is used. Exchange currency at the airport or banks. Some shops and restaurants accept credit cards and mobile payments, but carrying some cash is more convenient.💴 4. Etiquette: Follow Japanese customs, such as removing shoes indoors, avoiding loud conversations in public, and queuing.🙌 5. Seasonal Preparations: Pack warm clothes and non-slip shoes for winter visits. Mosquitoes are prevalent in summer, so bring mosquito repellent. Spring and autumn have significant temperature differences between day and night, so bring a light jacket.🧥 6. Safety: Niigata is generally safe, but be mindful of your belongings in crowded areas. If you go skiing, choose reputable ski resorts, follow instructions from professionals, and select slopes according to your skill level.👛