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

I'm glad I actually went. I've compiled a list of hotels to stay at on special days! Every place was so wonderful and amazing...! If you have plans to go there in the future, please use this as a reference ① Takefue ▶︎ 5725-1 Manganji, Minamioguni-cho, Aso-gun, Kumamoto Prefecture ② Ryokan Yoshidaya ▶︎ 379 Iwayakawauchi-ko, Ureshino-cho, Ureshino-shi, Saga Prefecture ③ The Ritz-Carlton Kyoto ▶︎ 543 Hokota-cho, Nakagyo-ku, Kyoto City, Kyoto Prefecture, Kamogawa Nijo Ohashi ④ Miyakojima Kurimajima Seawood Hotel ▶︎ 484-7 Shimoji Kurima, Miyakojima City, Okinawa Prefecture ⑤ Belnatio ▶︎ Tamagawa, Tokamachi City, Niigata Prefecture ⑥ The Ritz-Carlton Okinawa ▶︎ 1343-1 Kise, Okinawa Prefecture ⑦ Hoshino Resorts Oirase Keiryu Hotel ▶︎ 231 Okuse Tochikubo, Towada City, Aomori Prefecture If you are going there in the future, please check it out🐵 #travel #hotel #recommendedhotel #resorthotel #okinawa #hotelreview

We've compiled a list of recommended lodgings that are great for families and group trips! ⁡ If you have plans, save this and go for it 👌 ① BEB5 Okinawa Seragaki by Hoshino Resorts ▶︎ 1860-4 Seragaki, Onna Village, Kunigami District, Okinawa Prefecture ② Hoshino Resorts #Aomoriya ▶︎ 56 Furamakiyama, Misawa City, Aomori Prefecture ③ Haimurubushi ▶︎ 2930 Kohama, Taketomi Town, Yaeyama District, Okinawa Prefecture ④ Island Nagasaki ▶︎ 3277-7 Iojimacho 1-chome, Nagasaki City, Nagasaki Prefecture ⑤ Suginoi Hotel ▶︎ 1 Kankaiji, Beppu City, Oita Prefecture ⑥ Fusaki Beach Resort Hotel & Villas ▶︎ 1625 Shinkawa, Ishigaki City, Okinawa Prefecture ⑦ Belnatio ▶︎ Tamagawa, Tokamachi City, Niigata Prefecture #Travel deals #Want to connect with people who like to travel #Want to connect with people who like hotels #With kids #Travel with kids #Family trip #Hotel reviews

The Echigo-Tsumari Art Triennale, a contemporary art festival held every three years, takes place at this museum. In winter, an event called the 'Snow Playground' is held, where you can experience playing with snow. It was a fun event that you can experience in the snowy Niigata. ୨୧――――――――――――――――――୨୧ information Facility Name📍 Echigo-Tsumari Satoyama Museum of Contemporary Art MonET Address📍 71-2 Honcho 6-1 Chome, Tokamachi, Niigata Prefecture Access📍 About a 10-minute walk from JR Joetsu Line 'Tokamachi Station' ୨୧――――――――――――――――――୨୧

#0yentravelautumn Hello! It's Mayan☀️Where are you all planning to go in October? ? Here are my top 5 recommended spots to visit in October! The time when the stunning autumn scenery starts to come into view little by little. I've put together a list of spots that you should definitely visit during this time, such as cosmos and early autumn leaves. I hope this will be helpful for your outings. 📍Nara Park/ 30 Noboriojicho, Nara City, Nara Prefecture 📍MIHO MUSEUM/ 300 Momodani, Tashiro, Shigaraki-cho, Koka City, Shiga Prefecture 📍Expo Memorial Park/ 1-1 Senri Expo Park, Suita City, Osaka Prefecture 📍Rurikoin/ 55 Kamitakano Higashiyama, Sakyo Ward, Kyoto City, Kyoto Prefecture 📍Kiyotsukyo/ Koide, Tokamachi City, Niigata Prefecture For other recommended spots, click here▶︎#MaayanNiigata #MaayanNara #MaayanShiga #MaayanOsaka #MaayanKyoto 👆 to see all the spots ----------------------Thank you for always liking and saving, I'm very happy when you follow me, I'll reply to your comments🫶#BeginningofAutumn #OctoberEvents

Niigata Prefecture in Japan is a place full of natural beauty and historical culture, and one of the most famous tourist attractions is the Niigata Tunnel. This tunnel is located in the center of Niigata City and is an important transportation hub connecting the city center and the west coast. 🎈 The Niigata Tunnel has a unique architectural design and adopts a modern design concept. The exterior presents a streamlined curve shape, giving a sense of the future. The interior of the tunnel is spacious and bright, with advanced lighting facilities, allowing tourists to feel comfortable and safe when passing through the tunnel. ❤️ In addition to its unique architectural style, the Niigata Tunnel also has amazing natural landscapes. The walls on both sides of the tunnel are inlaid with huge glass windows. Tourists can enjoy the beautiful sea view and city scenery while passing through the tunnel. Especially at night, the lights in the tunnel create a romantic and mysterious atmosphere, as if in a dream world. 🌳

Niigata is located near the Sea of Japan and is home to popular attractions such as the Kiyotsukyo Tunnel and Naeba Ski Resort. Don't miss these attractions when you visit Niigata. 🚗Kiyotsukyo Tunnel: Kiyotsukyo is one of the three major gorges in Japan! The Kiyotsukyo Tunnel is a great place to take photos and is a popular spot for young people to check in! 🚗Hoshitoge Rice Terraces: Rural landscape. In winter, the rice terraces are surrounded by snow, and the terraces filled with water will freeze to form ice mirrors. The romantic and intoxicating scene under the reflection of the setting sun is full of mystery. 🚗Naeba Ski Resort: Feel the freedom and passion at the ski resort. It has various types of snow trails suitable for ski enthusiasts of any level. 🚗Niigata Snow Festival: This grand event is held every March. The event starts with the release of sky lanterns, which is a spectacular sight! There are also various sacrificial activities, and the event ends with fireworks. It's really exciting. 🚗Snow Mountain: Marvel at the beautiful snow scenery in Niigata, Japan in winter!

#exhibition "Echigo-Tsumari" is not the official name on the map. It comes from the ancient Japanese place name "Echigo-kun, Tsumari-so". Today it refers to Tokamachi City and Tsunan Town in southern Niigata Prefecture. Due to the rapid economic growth of Japan after the war, the population gradually emigrated to cities. Problems such as aging, empty houses, abandoned schools, abandoned farmland, etc. have profoundly affected the Echigo-Tsumari area. Faced with this situation, the Land Art Festival, which was launched with the goal of revitalizing the place, began to bring a new breath to Echigo-Tsumari. Since 2000, it has been held every three years in Echigo-Tsumari and is the world's largest international outdoor art season. With the concept of "human beings are in nature" and the goal of local redevelopment, we use art as a bridge and farmland as a stage to connect people and nature, and explore the inheritance and development of regional culture, explore the value contained in the place, and unleash the potential of the place. The charm revitalizes the agricultural areas that have become increasingly declining and aging in the process of modernization. The artistic works are scattered across a vast land of 760 square kilometers. Exhibition time: July 13th to November 10th, 2024 (closed on Tuesdays and Wednesdays) Opening hours: 10:00~17:00 (10:00~16:00 in October and November) Transportation guide: Take the JR Joetsu Shinkansen from Tokyo Station to Echigo-Yuzawa Station, which takes 1 hour and 20 minutes. Then transfer to the local train "HOKUHOKU LINE" to Tokamachi Station, which takes 40 minutes. There are not many flights on the North-North Line, so be sure to check the timetable, otherwise you will spend a lot of time waiting. Itinerary guide: It is recommended to arrange at least three days to visit. If you can drive yourself, it is the most convenient way to reach each exhibition venue. If it is less than three days or you mainly take the train, it is recommended to focus on Tokamachi Station and pick a few favorite exhibitions. Near Tokamachi Station is the Satoyama Museum of Modern Art, which was established as the base of the "Land Art Festival". The most distinctive feature of the museum is the large pond surrounded by the central corridor and the highlight of the museum. The "Farm Stage" next to Matsushiro Station is not only a highlight of the building itself, but it was also chosen for the work "Tanabata". There are dozens of art works around it, including Yayoi Kusama's "Blooming Flowers Tsumari". If you still have time, go to the "Forest School" in the Matsunoyama area. These three areas are the main exhibition areas. Several major exhibition venues require tickets to enter, so you can purchase the "Echigo-Tsumari Land Art Season Passport" in advance. If you don’t want to study the itinerary, you can take a local half-day or one-day guided tour. There is a special tour guide, but unfortunately it is only in Japanese at the moment. This is a well-known art festival. In addition to local Japanese creators, there are also works by artists from all over the world. Some are hidden in the mountains. It is recommended to travel lightly, not to carry too much luggage, and a pair of good sneakers. #Echigo Tsumari#Echigo Tsumari Land Art Festival#Art Festival#Niigata#Tukamachi#Matsudai#Satoyama Modern Art Museum#Agriculture Stage#Forest School#Tanata#Chongjin Canyon Tunnel#Light Tunnel#Kusama Yayoi# Flower Blossom Wife has #100 Ways to Travel# exhibition

#Japan Attractions #Japan Travel #Echigo Yuzawa The must-see attraction when visiting Echigo-Yuzawa is Kiyotsu Pass. If you are not on a self-drive tour to Kiyojin Gorge, be sure to check the bus timetable, as there are only 3 buses per day. Take the bus at the Echigo-Yumazawa Station East Exit 5 bus stop, get off at the Kiyotsu Gorge entrance for about 25 minutes and walk for about 30 minutes. Although 30 minutes is long, the views along the way are really beautiful. It is rare to see d rivers d water so clear, like a painting. So I would keep taking pictures while walking along the road. To get to the entrance of Kiyotsu Gorge, you have to buy a ticket to enter, which is 1000 yen per person. Since going on Sunday knew there would be more people than usual, so as soon as possible to walk to the tunnel farthest, visitors must check in location, the tunnel entrance of Skyland. It was really beautiful, even though it was past the winter snow scene, the view was still so beautiful. Tourists lined up to take pictures in an orderly manner, and they were able to take pictures after waiting in line for about 5 minutes. The other themes have a great design theme, so really this attraction is well worth the visit.

⁡＼I've put together a plan to enjoy Kiyotsukyo Gorge in Niigata! ⛄️／ ⁡ I wanted to go right away Kiyotsukyo Gorge was amazing in winter🥹 ⁡ I had a rental car with studless tires The snow had been removed, so I was able to go sightseeing by car ⁡ You can enter Kiyotsukyo Gorge until 15:30 in winter! It's about a 30-minute drive from Echigo Yuzawa If you haven't been yet, please go👍 ⁡ The curry and soba were delicious, but The sauce cutlet bowl was so amazing I got really excited Niigata food was also delicious The atmosphere was warm overall It was really good, I want to go snowboarding again🥺💕 ⁡ #Kiyotsukyo #KiyotsukyoTunnel #KiyotsukyoGorgeTunnel #AmazingView #AmazingSpot #AmazingViewInJapan #AmazingSpotInJapan #Winter #WinterTrip #Trip #Niigata #NiigataTrip #NiigataTourism #KiyotsuGorge #Belnatio #NiigataTrip #NiigataPlan #SnowScenery

I went to this hotel in Niigata for the first time. It was stylish and perfect for families with children and three generations. 👪 ⁡ The lobby and rooms are stylish, and there are plenty of amenities for children! ⁡ There is also a snow park inside the hotel, perfect for children to play in the snow for the first time ⛄️ ⁡ The dinner buffet was so high-quality that it was the best, so I recommend you go 🫶 ⁡ [Access] ・About 25 minutes by car from Echigo Yuzawa Station ・20 minutes by car to Kiyotsukyo Gorge ・A resort hotel in Tokamachi ⁡ [Inside the hotel] ・A stylish cottage that looks like a villa overseas ・Wood grain interior and lights with a warm atmosphere ・A snow park and accommodation building on the premises ・A large hot spring bath ⁡ [Rooms] ・Spacious and comfortable even in a twin room ・120 cm wide bed ・Aroma compress for snow activities ・Bathtub, large luggage storage space ⁡ [Meals] ・The renovated restaurant venue is very beautiful ・The quality of the buffet is too high ・Sushi, roast beef, etc. that are made for you ・About 10 kinds of sweets like those in department store basements ⁡ The food was delicious, the buffet was of the highest quality, and I was very satisfied🫶 ⁡ It's good value for just 10,000 yen per person, so it's recommended for family and group trips⛄️ ⁡ For those who want to snowboard, there is a shuttle bus to the nearby ski resort👍 ♨️ Toma Kogen Resort #Belnatio Tamakawa, Tokamachi City, Niigata Prefecture ⁡ Room▶︎ Twin room Reference budget▶︎Breakfast included for 2 people per room, from ¥14,405 ⁡ Open-air bath/large bath/private bath/sauna/indoor pool/pets allowed/free shuttle ⁡ ✈︎---------------------- ⁡ #winter #wintertrip #trip #niigata #niigatatrip #niigatahotel #nationaltravelsupport #familytrip #Value for money accommodation #Graduation trip #Accommodation review

The hotel I stayed at on my recent trip to Niigata was amazing 🥺💕 ⁡ The lodge-like building in the snow was so stylish, and the buffet was absolutely delicious! ⁡ They make sushi for you, and they also have beef stew and roast beef, and a wide variety of cakes! It's also super authentic👍 (The restaurant seems to have been renovated recently) ⁡ They have a wide variety of children's menus and amenities, and there's a place to play in the snow on the premises, so I think it's the best place to stay for families🐮 ⁡ There are plenty of places to snowboard within a 30-minute drive, and Kiyotsu Gorge is also nearby🙆‍♀️ ⁡ And it's just over 10,000 yen per person, so it's great value for money🥹💕 ⁡ Highly recommended for those who want to enjoy winter ski resorts, hot springs, and sightseeing🫶 ⁡ ⛄️Toma Kogen Resort #Belnatio Tamagawa, Tokamachi City, Niigata Prefecture ⁡ -———————✈︎ #winter #wintertrip #trip #Niigata #Niigatatrip #Niigatahotel #nationaltravelsupport #familytrip #valueformoney #graduationtrip

Tokamachi is the snow country of Japan🇯🇵😌 It is a historical town famous for its ceramic culture and unique textiles🤭 Tokamachi to this day has a very close connection with art 👍🏻 such as the Every Echigo Wife has the Earth Art Festival Triennial ❤️ It can be used by artists at home and abroad 👩‍🎨 to exhibit their very meaningful works 😌 And their works can not be limited to indoor spaces 🤭 So you can see quite a few installation art is displayed outdoors 🫶🏻 can give a very different experience to visitors 😬 Among them is the Echigo Wife has the earth art festival inside there is a farm stage 🤣 is the most visited exhibition In winter the building does not accumulate snow and in summer it can block the sun ☀️ The terraces of the building exactly display agricultural art works to depict farmers 👩‍🌾 working in the rice fields 🤣 If you are going to Niigata then remember to go #HolidayGood Places #ChristmasGood Places2022 #HongKongGood Places #FamilyGood Places #OverseasTravel #SummerGood Places #OverseasTravel #ResidentWriter #I miss #JapaneseCooking #JapanGood Places

Bijinrin (Beautiful Forest) 🛤️Address: 1712-2 Matsuguchi, Matsunoyama, Tokamachi, Niigata 942-1411 🍁Autumn foliage season: late October to early November 🚘Parking: 30 regular cars When busy, you can use the adjacent Tokamachi City Satoyama Science Museum or the "Forest School" Kyororo Parking Lot #Autumn trip #Amazing view

Address: 1225-1 Matsuguchi, Matsunoyama, Tokamachi City, Niigata Prefecture, 942-1411 Content: A famous spot in Niigata! Bijinrin! A truly beautiful Bijinrin 🥹🥹 I recommend you go there at least once! The light overflowing from the trees was truly beautiful! The sound of insects and the green of the trees were soothing! Please come and visit!! 🌲🌲 #ForestBathing

Echigo-Tsumari Museum of Contemporary Art is located in Tokamachi city, Niigata prefecture. If you are driving through Tokamachi or arrive at the station, your first thought is that there is no contemporary art museum in a place like this. But there is, a magnificent art museum. Here in Tokamachi, they hold the Plateau Art Festival every three years, and artworks are dotted all over the town! #retrotownscape

Kiyotsukyo Tunnel in Tokamachi, Niigata Prefecture The long tunnel, stretching nearly 1 kilometer, was apparently used for transportation in the past. The view from the observation deck, with the exposed strata of the earth, is impressive! And if you walk to the end, there is a beautiful photo spot with a reflection of the water surface! An artist created it for the art festival! #breathtakingview #autumnfoliage #mountainclimbing

I went to the Echigo-Tsumari Art Triennale for the first time in three years. Even during the COVID-19 pandemic, some of the artworks are open to the public and there are few people, so you can take your time taking photos. I love the "Classroom" artwork and enjoy it every time. This year, chalk is on sale for 10 yen a stick, but I doodled a lot. Lol #Guide to photography at tourist spots#Summer trip

#awesomepic #japan #tokyotravel #tokyo

Share your experience of visiting a ski resort in Japan 🇯🇵 The ski resort we went to is called Gala Yusawa. It is a popular place for tourists because it is easy to travel. You can visit it with just the Tokyo Wide Pass because the route covers Nanita Prefecture. For those who intend to ski, the price here is quite reasonable and not too expensive. For those who do not ski, you can buy a gondola ticket to the highest viewpoint. I must say that the view is very beautiful. The place is called Bell of Love. It feels like you are in Switzerland when you are up there. As for the weather, it is very cold. I recommend dressing thickly and wearing a jacket because the temperature here is quite cold. The item that you cannot miss is gloves and they must be snow gloves. For those who are afraid of being hungry or thirsty, this place sells a variety of food and drinks. The food is delicious. I ordered a very large fried chicken curry rice that was enough to fill me up by myself. There is water, snacks, and ice cream. There is everything. There is also equipment for rent. There is also a Thai interpreter if you can't speak Japanese. There is also a ski school where you can buy a course and learn. The teacher is a Thai-speaking teacher. As for opening and closing times, it is recommended to come early in the morning at 7 am, leave Tokyo Station, and return around 3-4 pm because the last train leaves around 7 pm. If you miss the last train, it will be difficult to find a place to sleep. And for those who come in the winter, it starts to get dark around 4-5 pm. P.S. We went in February 68. It was very cold and it snowed. It was so cool. ><

#aprilblooms If you’re looking for a unique spring getaway, I highly recommend visiting Echigo-Tsumari in Niigata! This area, covering Tokamachi and Tsunan towns, has been home to the Echigo-Tsumari Art Triennale for over 20 years. Spread across the stunning rural landscape, you’ll find incredible art installations blended beautifully with nature — it’s like walking through a living, breathing art museum! Even outside of the festival season, many artworks are permanently on display, so there’s always something to discover. The mix of mountains, rice fields, and modern art makes for an unforgettable experience! Why You Should Visit: ✔ Massive open-air art installations set in breathtaking natural surroundings. ✔ Perfect for those who love combining outdoor adventures with creative exploration. 📍Address: Echigo-Tsumari, Niigata Prefecture, Japan #Niigata #Japan #EchigoTsumari #ArtInNature #SpringInJapan

#0 Yen Travel Kiyotsukyo Gorge Tunnel Address: 949-8432 Tokamachi City, Niigata Prefecture --- Kiyotsukyo Gorge Tunnel! It's a place that feels like another world, where modern art and nature come together! Kiyotsukyo Gorge, located in Tokamachi City, Niigata Prefecture, is a place with breathtaking views that are counted as one of the three major canyons in Japan, and you can have the unique experience of enjoying the scenery from inside the tunnel. The tunnel itself is not just a passageway. There are elaborate art pieces installed in various places, and there are plenty of exciting features to get you excited just by walking through it! For example, the walls of the tunnel are like mirrors, so the outside scenery is reflected like a kaleidoscope, and there is water at your feet, and the scenery reflected on the water surface is fantastic. And at the end of the tunnel is the panorama station! The view from here is truly spectacular. You can see the dynamic scenery of the huge columnar jointed rocks and the clear emerald green stream as if it were a framed painting. Especially on a fine day, the fresh greenery and autumn leaves are reflected on the water, creating a breathtaking beauty. Another attraction is that the lighting in the tunnel changes depending on the time and season. When natural light pours in, you can enjoy a more dynamic view, and at dusk, you are enveloped in a fantastic atmosphere. The Kiyotsukyo Gorge Tunnel goes beyond the experience of "just looking at the scenery," and is a place that gives you a new sensation of "experiencing a space where art and nature are fused together." Every time you walk, you will discover something new, and you can feel the majesty of nature using all your five senses. It is truly a spot where adventure and art are fused together, and you will never stop being excited! I'm sure that you will be captivated by its unique charm when you visit!

#Domestic Travel Strategy We went to see art at the Echigo-Tsumari Art Festival, an international art festival held in the Echigo-Tsumari region (the home of the Echigo-Tsumari Art Festival) in Niigata Prefecture, one of the snowiest areas in Japan, where depopulation and aging are progressing. If you have read to the end and are planning to go to see art at the Echigo-Tsumari Art Festival, we hope this will be helpful for you to travel efficiently. 🔸Time required: 2 days ───────────────── 🔸Transportation method: Private car ───────────────── 11:00 Matsudai "Nobutai" ↓ Start Matsudai Local History Museum ↓ 14:00 Move to hotel ↓ 🚗 About 66km About 1 hour 20 minutes (toll road) ↓ 15:30 Hotel Route Inn Mitsuke Arrive Nakanoshima Mitsuke Interchange 2 days 9:00 Leave hotel ↓ ↓ 🚗 About 96km About 1.5 hours (toll road) ↓ 10:30 Arrive at Kiyotsukyo Gorge Tunnel parking lot ↓ Move to the entrance by private shuttle bus ↓ 11:00 Arrive at Kiyotsukyo Gorge Tunnel ↓ 12:00 Move to Hachi & Tajima Seizo Picture Book Museum ↓ ↓ 🚗About 20km About 30 minutes ↓ 13:00 Lunch break "Naoshian Sagano" ↓ ↓ 🚗About 8km About 15 minutes ↓ 13:30 Arrive at Hachi & Tajima Seizo Picture Book Museum ↓ 14:30 Take a break at Hachi Cafe ↓ 15:40 Picking out souvenirs, heading home 𐄁𐄙𐄁𐄙𐄁𐄙𐄁𐄙𐄁𐄙𐄁𐄙𐄁𐄙𐄁 𐄁𐄙𐄁𐄙𐄁𐄙𐄁𐄙𐄁𐄙𐄁𐄙𐄁𐄙𐄁𐄙𐄁 𐄁𐄙𐄁𐄙𐄁𐄙𐄁𐄙𐄁𐄙𐄁𐄙𐄁𐄙𐄁 𐄁𐄙𐄁𐄙𐄁𐄙𐄁𐄙𐄁𐄙𐄁𐄙𐄁 𐄁𐄙𐄁𐄙𐄁𐄙𐄁𐄙𐄁𐄙𐄁𐄙𐄁 𐄁𐄙𐄁𐄙𐄁𐄙𐄁𐄙𐄁𐄙𐄁𐄙𐄁𐄙𐄁 𐄁𐄙𐄁𐄙𐄁𐄙𐄁𐄙𐄁𐄙𐄁𐄙𐄁𐄙𐄁 Access 🔸Matsudai Local History Museum 📍3718 Matsushiro, Tokamachi City, Niigata Prefecture, 942-1526 🔸Matsudai "Nobutai" Field Museum 📍942-1526 3743-1 Matsushiro, Tokamachi City, Niigata Prefecture ⚠️There are many art works between Nohbutai and Matsushiro Castle on the mountaintop Electric bicycles are also available for rental If you want to efficiently go around only the art works, we recommend going by car Shuttle buses are also available 🔸Hotel Route Inn Mitsuke Nakanoshima Mitsuke Inter 📍160-1 Kamishinden-cho, Mitsuke City, Niigata Prefecture 954-0112 🔸Earth Art Festival Kiyotsukyo Tunnel Information Center 📍2162 Koide, Tokamachi City, Niigata Prefecture 949-8433 ⚠️There is a period when advance reservations are available ※We recommend purchasing a reservation ticket in advance For details, please check the website 🔸Tsumari Food Workshop Naoshian Sagano 📍949-8522 1047-11 Date-ko, Tokamachi City, Niigata Prefecture 🔸Hachi & Tajima Seizo Picture Book and Nut Museum 🔸Hachi Cafe 📍2310-1 Sanada-ko, Tokamachi City, Niigata Prefecture 948-0111 *There are few accommodations around the Echigo-Tsumari Art Festival *A car is the most efficient way to get around #Niigata #museum #art #domestictravel #solotravel

#Spring0yenTrip In the winter of Niigata, I visited Bijinbayashi before the snow had accumulated. The neat rows of beech trees with their leaves removed had a certain dignified beauty, making it a fitting sight for the name "Bijinbayashi". The forest, enveloped in a cloudy sky, was quiet and silent, so quiet that even footsteps could be heard. Just walking through the cool air that signaled the arrival of winter made it seem like I was forgetting the hustle and bustle of everyday life and my heart was suddenly lighter. It wasn't flashy, but that's why I was captivated by the delicate expressions of nature and the patterns on the beech trunks. Although it wasn't a snowy landscape, I enjoyed the peaceful time that is unique to Bijinbayashi, where the soft light of the clouds blended with the silence of winter. #Bijinbayashi #WinterinNiigata #SoothingSilence #BeechForestScenery #WinterForestWalk

#Spring0yenTrip The Kiyotsukyo Tunnel is a 750m long tourist tunnel that allows you to easily enjoy the scenery of Kiyotsukyo Gorge, one of Japan's three major canyons, located in Tokamachi City, Niigata Prefecture. Attractions: * Fusion of art and nature: The tunnel is dotted with artworks called "Tunnel of Light" created by MAD Architects, led by Chinese architect Ma Yansong, and the fantastic space created by the grandeur of nature and modern art is attractive. * Three Observation Points: There are three observation points in the tunnel, each with a different view. You can feel the power of nature by looking at the columnar jointed rock surface up close and the clear waters of the Kiyotsu River. * Panorama Station (Water Mirror): The Panorama Station at the very back of the tunnel is a mirror-like space where the surrounding scenery is reflected in the water. Especially during the seasons of new greenery and autumn leaves, breathtakingly beautiful views unfold. * Fantastic lighting: The tunnel is lit up with lighting that changes color depending on the time of day, creating a mysterious atmosphere. * Comfortable in all weather: The attraction is that you can sightsee without worrying about the weather, even on rainy days. It is cool in the summer, and is comfortable like a natural air conditioner. * Barrier-free: The tunnel is paved, making it relatively easy to move around in a wheelchair or with a stroller. Access: * Car: * From Shiozawa Ishiuchi IC on the Kan'etsu Expressway, take National Route 353 for about 25 minutes. There are free parking lots (1st, 2nd, and 3rd parking lots). * Train and bus: * From Echigo Yuzawa Station on the JR Joetsu Shinkansen, take the Minami Echigo Tourist Bus bound for Kiyotsukyo Iriguchi for about 25 minutes, then walk for about 30 minutes from the bus stop. * From Echigo Tazawa Station on the JR Iiyama Line, take the bus for about 20 minutes, get off at the Kiyotsukyo Iriguchi bus stop, and walk for about 30 minutes. * Limited-time tour bus: The "Snow Country Heavy Snow Liner" direct round-trip tour bus may operate from Echigo Yuzawa Station (check operating schedule). Notes: * It takes about 30 minutes to walk from the bus stop to the tunnel entrance. We recommend wearing comfortable walking shoes. * Please be careful of your step in winter due to snow accumulation. * Advance reservations may be required during busy periods such as Golden Week and Obon. Please check the official website. Kiyotsukyo Tunnel is a spectacular spot with a new sensation, where the beauty of nature and art come together. Be sure to visit and experience this fantastical world.

#Spring0yenTrip The Echigo-Tsumari Satoyama Museum of Contemporary Art (MonET) is an art museum located in Tokamachi, Niigata Prefecture, and is one of the main bases of the Echigo-Tsumari Art Triennale. Attractions: * Base of the Echigo-Tsumari Art Triennale: As a year-round exhibition facility for the Echigo-Tsumari Art Triennale, a contemporary art festival held every three years, you can enjoy locally rooted works by famous artists from Japan and abroad. * The architecture itself is art: The building, designed by one of Japan's leading architects, Hiroshi Hara, has a semi-outdoor corridor, which is rare in areas with heavy snowfall, and its unique structure can be enjoyed as a work of art in itself. * Fusion of nature and art: Many works that deeply engage with the rich nature, climate, and culture of Echigo-Tsumari are on display, offering a unique art experience that fuses the scenery of Satoyama with contemporary art. * Diverse exhibits: Contemporary art works in a variety of genres, including paintings, sculptures, installations, and videos, are on display, and you'll discover something new every time you visit. * Interaction with the local community: Many of the works are the result of collaboration between local residents and artists, allowing visitors to feel a connection with the local community through art. * Museum shop: There is also a shop where you can purchase original ETAT goods and local souvenirs. Access: * Train: * About 10 minutes on foot from Tokamachi Station on the JR Iiyama Line or Hokuetsu Express Hokuhoku Line. * From Tokyo, take the Joetsu Shinkansen to Echigo Yuzawa Station, then transfer to the Hokuhoku Line for about 2 hours. * From Kanazawa, take the Hokuriku Shinkansen to Joetsu Myoko Station, then transfer to the Echigo Tokimeki Railway and the Hokuhoku Line for about 2 hours and 30 minutes. * Car: * From Muikamachi IC on the Kan-etsu Expressway, take National Route 253 for about 40 minutes. * From Shiozawa Ishiuchi IC on the Kan-etsu Expressway, take National Route 353 for about 40 minutes. * Parking: Approximately 360 standard-sized cars, large buses (free). The Echigo-Tsumari Satoyama Museum of Contemporary Art (MonET) is a recommended place for art lovers as well as those who want to enjoy the beautiful scenery of Satoyama. Please come and enjoy an art experience that can only be found here.

"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💕.

Friends, today I'm sharing a hidden gem of a travel destination in Japan—Niigata✨. It's the "Snow Country" from Kawabata Yasunari's novel, with stunning natural landscapes and unique cultural customs. It's both off the beaten path and incredibly photogenic, so save this post now! 🏞️Sightseeing Check-in - Kiyotsu Gorge: One of Japan's three great gorges, with cliffs on both sides and the Kiyotsu River flowing through it. The panoramic view from the end of the tunnel is incredibly beautiful for photos, and the winter snowscape is like a fairy tale. Take the express bus from Echigo-Yuzawa Station towards Mori-Miyanohara, get off at the Kiyotsu Gorge entrance bus stop (about 25 minutes), and walk for another 30 minutes. Tickets are ¥1000 for adults and ¥400 for children. - Hoshitoge Rice Terraces: Selected as one of the "100 Best Villages in Japan." You might encounter a sea of clouds in the early morning, and the water-filled rice paddies are like mirrors, breathtakingly beautiful! - Yahiko Shrine: Located at the foot of Mount Yahiko, it's quiet and spiritual, famous for its beautiful torii gates and main hall. Take the cable car to the top of Mount Yahiko for a panoramic view. 🍱Food Recommendations - Red snow crab: The red snow crab from the Sea of Japan is of excellent quality, with sweet and tender meat. You can indulge in crab at "Kaniya Yokocho" (Crab Alley) at affordable prices, and pair it with crab soup, scallops, and other snacks. - Seaweed soba: Soba noodles made with seaweed called "funori," served in "hegi" bowls. They have a unique and chewy texture. - Sake: Niigata is an important sake-producing region in Japan. "Ponshukan," inside Echigo-Yuzawa Station, offers over 100 kinds of sake. For ¥500, you get 5 coins to sample different sakes, many of which are limited editions. 🏨Accommodation Options - Hoshino Resorts RISONARE Myoko: Features rooms with cloud-sea terraces and exceptional views. The facilities are comprehensive, and the service is attentive, making it suitable for a relaxing vacation, though the price is on the higher side. - APA Hotel Niigata-Ekimae: The top choice for value. It's a 3-minute walk from the JR station, offers free ski equipment storage, and is conveniently located. 🚗Transportation Guide - From Tokyo, you can take the Shinkansen, which takes about 2 hours to reach Niigata. You can enjoy the scenery along the way. - For local transportation, you can choose buses or JR lines. If you want to explore more freely, renting a car is also a good option. 🎈Travel Tips 1. Niigata gets a lot of snow in winter, so remember to bring warm clothes and non-slip shoes. 2. Some attractions and activities require advance booking, so it's recommended to plan your itinerary in advance. Everyone, come experience this unique Japanese romance in Niigata💖

🏞【Introduction: A Romantic Invitation to Snow Country】 "Through curtains of snow, encounter the poetry of 'Snow Country'; stroll through terraced rice fields mirroring clouds, touch the earth's breath; sip century-old sake, and savor the essence of time." Niigata, this hidden gem embraced by the Sea of Japan, presents travelers with a dual feast for the senses and soul through its seasonal canvas, vibrant cuisine, and art-infused culture. 【Must-Visit Attractions: A Symphony of Nature and History】 🌳Hoshitoge Rice Terraces—Geometric Poetry in the Clouds In spring, water-filled paddies mirror green mountains; in winter, silver snow blankets like God's spilled palette. Morning sea of clouds and night star trails are lifetime pursuits for photographers. 📍Tip: 20-minute taxi ride from Matsudai Station, wear anti-slip shoes for winter snow exploration. Lake Hyoko Swan Lake—A Fairy Tale of Winged Grace Every winter, 5,000 swans arrive from Siberia, dancing with pink cherry blossoms. Feed swans in the morning and watch them stretch their necks, like stepping into an Andersen fairy tale. 📍Best time: Late November to March, wear warm coats. Kiyotsu Gorge "Tunnel of Light"—A Dialogue Between Nature and Art In the tunnel designed by Ma Yansong, light and shadows flow like time travel. Walk through one of Japan's three great valleys, listen to the Kiyotsu River's whispers, and encounter the stunning "waterfall clouds." 📍Transportation: 25-minute bus ride from Echigo-Yuzawa Station, then 30-minute walk. Tsukioka Onsen—A Thousand-Year Allure of Beauty Baths Emerald sulfur hot springs seep into skin, traditional lanterns sway, and geisha silhouettes appear and vanish. Stay in a traditional inn and let the "onsen tour pass" guide you through Edo-era charm. 📍Experience: Hand bath blessings, traditional snack making, evening yukata strolls. 【Niigata's Culinary Delights: Gifts from Sea and Field】 Koshihikari Rice Sushi—Stars Melting on Your Tongue "Snow Country's Light" Koshihikari rice, embracing Sea of Japan's sweetness, shaped into cloud-like sushi. At Tomi Sushi, salmon and white fish sashimi with freshly grated wasabi, paired with sake overlooking the sea. 🍣Recommended: Niigata Station Front location, excellent lunch set value. Noheiji-jiru—A Romance of Seafood and Taro Creamy taro soup with salmon roe and shellfish creates explosive flavors. Suzakaya's soba noodles with special sauce and tempura offer authentic local soul food. 🍲Address: Niigata Station Front shop, open until 1AM. Tochio Fried Tofu—A Philosophy of Crispy Outside, Tender Inside Triple-thick tofu fried golden crisp, served with mayonnaise or natto. Bishamonten Honpo's deep-fried miso sauce is a living fossil of Edo flavors. 📌Serving suggestion: Sprinkle bonito flakes with plum sauce for creative "ten colors" experience. Teradomari Seafood Don—Neptune's Treasure King crab and botan shrimp fresh from the Sea of Japan piled high, drizzled with sweet soy sauce. Feed seagulls and watch sunset at Sasagawa-Nagare rocky coast, while fresh seafood flavors touch your soul. 🦀Must-try: Hamazaki (grilled seafood skewers) paired with Koshihikari sake. 【Cultural Experiences: Traditional Meets Modern】 In February nights, bare-chested men with candles on heads compete for "lucky tablets," their shouts shattering winter snow. Tochihori Suminokami Shrine's ancient ritual embodies primal wishes for harvest. 📅Date: Second Saturday of February, wear non-slip shoes to participate. Echigo-Tsumari Art Triennale—Mona Lisa in Rice Fields Every three years, 400 artworks "grow" among rice fields and valleys. Follow art maps to discover breathing installations in "satoyama contemporary." 🎨Tip: Wear comfortable shoes in summer, bring insect repellent. Northern Culture Museum—A Century-Old Garden Tale Ito Family Residence's pond garden showcases seasonal changes through cherry blossoms, autumn leaves, and winter snow. During wisteria season, evening lights sparkle like the Milky Way; wear kimono for tea ceremony, transported to Edo era. 🎋Secret spot: Try the "marriage blessing water stone" in garden corner if single. 【Seasonal Travel Guide: Perfect Timing for Niigata】 Spring (March-May): Cherry blossoms at Takada Castle Park, swans dance with sakura at Lake Hyoko, wear light jackets for flower viewing. Summer (June-August): Beach surfing, arrive 3 hours early for front-row seats at Nagaoka Fireworks Festival, bring rain gear for firework residue. Fall (September-November): Yahiko Park Valley illumination, Kiyotsu Gorge autumn tunnel ablaze with color, wear hiking shoes. Winter (December-February): Powder snow at GALA Yuzawa Ski Resort, warm up in Tsukioka Onsen, prepare heat packs for low temperatures. 【Practical Information: Seamless Niigata Travel】 Transportation: 2 hours from Tokyo via Joetsu Shinkansen, JR Pass covers all areas; city bus day pass (800 yen) is great value. Accommodation: Yumoto Jinya ryokan offers private baths, book 2 months ahead for ski season. Language: Limited English signage at attractions, download Japanese translation apps for emergencies. Niigata isn't just a destination, but a sensory rebirth. Here, every grain of rice, every snowflake, every firework tells the precious story of "ichigo ichie" (one-time encounter)