Niigata: Japanese Seafood Culture & Local Market Walk

Niigata Prefecture , Japan

Niigata: Japanese Seafood Culture & Local Market Walk

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Mobile or paper ticket accepted

About this experience

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

Available options

On-site (Niigata Port) Meeting

On-site (Niigata Port) Meeting<br/>Starting point:<br/>FamilyMart; Ryuto Bridge South, 4-20 Sanwachō, Chuo Ward, Niigata, 950-0081, Japan

Niigata Station Meeting

Niigata Station Meeting<br/>Starting point:<br/>LAWSON Niigata Hanazono 1-chome Store, 1-chōme-2-2 Hanazono, Chuo Ward, Niigata, 950-0086, Japan

What's included

Dining allowance for sampling seafood

Visit to Bandai-jima Fish Market

Guided culinary walk at Pier Bandai

Introduction to Japanese seafood culture

Detailed itinerary

Pier Bandai is a lively food market located near Niigata Port, where the rich bounty of Niigata’s sea and mountains comes together in one place. At its heart is the Bandai-jima Fish Market, offering fresh seafood from the Sea of Japan, including locally caught fish and shellfish that reflect the region’s strong fishing traditions. Alongside seafood, the market also features Niigata-grown rice, seasonal vegetables, local specialties, and processed foods rooted in the area’s culinary culture. Rather than a tourist-oriented complex, Pier Bandai functions as a place used by locals as well, making it an ideal setting to experience everyday food culture. Visitors can see how ingredients are selected, prepared, and enjoyed, gaining insight into how Niigata’s natural environment shapes its cuisine. With casual eateries and shops gathered around the market, Pier Bandai offers a relaxed and approachable way to explore the flavors of both the sea and the land in Niigata.

What's not included

Additional food and drink orders beyond the included dining allowance

Available languages

Guide guide

Important information

Public transportation options are available nearby

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

Meeting point

If you select the Niigata Station meeting option, the meeting point is in front of Lawson Niigata Hanazono 1-Chome Store.
Your guide will be waiting for you holding a yellow signboard.
Please refer to the map for detailed directions.

About Niigata Prefecture

Niigata Prefecture, located on the northwest coast of Honshu, is renowned for its high-quality rice, fresh seafood, and stunning natural landscapes. With its long coastline along the Sea of Japan, hot springs, and the famous Echigo-Yuzawa ski resort, Niigata offers a diverse range of experiences for travelers.

Top Attractions

Sado Island

Sado Island, located off the coast of Niigata, is known for its rich history, gold mines, and traditional performing arts. It offers stunning natural landscapes and cultural experiences.

Nature/Historical/Cultural 1-3 days Moderate to Expensive

Echigo-Yuzawa

Echigo-Yuzawa is a popular ski resort area known for its excellent skiing and snowboarding facilities. It also offers hot springs and scenic beauty.

Adventure/Relaxation 1-2 days Moderate to Expensive

Niigata City Aquarium

The Niigata City Aquarium is a family-friendly attraction featuring a variety of marine life, including dolphins, penguins, and fish native to the Sea of Japan.

Nature/Education 2-3 hours Moderate

Must-Try Local Dishes

Noppe

A traditional Niigata dish made with grated daikon radish, fish, and other ingredients, served with a dipping sauce.

Dish Contains fish and seafood

Hegisoba

A local noodle dish made with flat soba noodles, grilled fish, and vegetables, served with a savory sauce.

Dish Contains fish and seafood

Koshihikari Rice

Niigata is famous for its high-quality Koshihikari rice, known for its sweet and sticky texture.

Staple Vegetarian

Popular Activities

Skiing Snowboarding Hiking Mountain Biking Onsen (Hot Springs) Yoga Meditation Scenic Train Rides

Best Time to Visit

Spring (April to June) and Autumn (September to November)

These seasons offer mild weather, beautiful scenery with cherry blossoms in spring and vibrant foliage in autumn, and are ideal for outdoor activities and cultural experiences.

10°C to 25°C 50°F to 77°F

Practical Information

Language

Official: Japanese
Widely spoken: English (limited)
English: Limited

Currency

Japanese Yen (JPY)

Time Zone

JST (GMT+9)

Electricity

100VV, 50/60HzHz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe

Niigata is generally safe for travelers, with low crime rates and a welcoming atmosphere. However, standard precautions should be taken to ensure a safe and enjoyable trip.

Important Precautions:

• Keep valuables secure and be cautious in crowded areas.
• Use licensed taxis and verified tour operators.
• Be wary of strangers offering unsolicited help or services.

Getting there

By air

Niigata Airport • 15 km from Niigata City

By train

Niigata Station

By bus

Niigata Bus Terminal

Getting around

Public transport

Buses are the primary mode of public transport in Niigata, with frequent services connecting major attractions and neighborhoods.

Taxis

Available • Apps: JapanTaxi, DiDi

Rentals

Car, Bike, Scooter

Neighborhoods

Bandai City Furuichi Minamichito

Day trips

Sado Island

1.5 hours by ferry • 1-3 days

Sado Island offers a mix of natural beauty, historical sites, and cultural experiences. It's known for its gold mines, taiko drumming performances, and scenic hiking trails.

Echigo-Yuzawa

1 hour by train • 1-2 days

Echigo-Yuzawa is a popular ski resort area known for its excellent skiing and snowboarding facilities. It also offers hot springs and scenic beauty.

Nagaoka

30 minutes by train • 1 day

Nagaoka is a city known for its historical sites, including the Nagaoka Castle and the Nagaoka Park, which hosts the Nagaoka Fireworks Festival in August.

Festivals

Nagaoka Fireworks Festival • Early August Sanno Festival • Mid-August Niigata Matsuri • July

Pro tips

Visit Niigata during the cherry blossom season (late April to early May) for stunning scenery and pleasant weather.
Try local specialties like Noppe, Hegisoba, and Koshihikari rice for an authentic Niigata culinary experience.
Book accommodations and transportation in advance, especially during peak seasons and festivals.
Consider renting a car for exploring rural areas and scenic spots at your own pace.
Learn a few basic Japanese phrases to enhance your interaction with locals and show respect for the culture.