3 Days Tour of the Origin of Japanese Food in Niigata

Niigata Prefecture , Japan

3 Days Tour of the Origin of Japanese Food in Niigata

Active

If you cancel at least 6 full day(s) before the scheduled departure time, you will receive a full refund.<br>If you cancel between 2 and 6 day(s) before the scheduled departure time, you will receive a 50% refund.<br>If you cancel within 2 day(s) of the scheduled departure, you will receive a 0% refund.

Manual confirmation

Mobile or paper ticket accepted

About this experience

This is a program which introduces a deep understanding of "Japan" through "rice" in Kashiwazaki, Niigata Prefecture. Participants will stay in an old minka (traditional Japanese house) with a kayabuki roof (shingled roof), watch cooking rice in a kamado (a traditional Japanese cooking pot), with a master of rice, and experience seasonal agricultural activities.
Visitors can also enjoy some "experiences related with rice" such as Futomaki Sushi making experience with a local chef, and a visit to an award-winning sake brewery. This tour also includes visit in a beautiful historical residence of major landowner of this area, where the emperor Showa stayed during his visit to Niigata prefecture. On the second day, you will enjoy a full-course rice dinner that is specially created for this tour. The program offers real country life and warm interaction with locals that will make an unforgettable experience.

Available options

3 Days Tour of the Origin of Japanese Food in Niigata

What's included

Accommodation, tax and service charge

Lunch

Experiences

Dinner

Taxi

Breakfast

Guide

Facility usage fee

What's not included

Transportation from/to meeting point and dismissal point

Available languages

Guide guide

JA EN IT

Important information

Public transportation options are available nearby

Not recommended for pregnant travelers

Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health

Travelers should have a high level of physical fitness

Meeting point

A staff member holding a tour sign will be standing just outside the Shinkansen ticket gate at Nagaoka Station.

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.