Tsubame Sanjo 6hr Private Factory Tour with Guide & Vehicle
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Tsubame Sanjo 6hr Private Factory Tour with Guide & Vehicle

Active
6h
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
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Mobile or paper ticket accepted

About this experience

Blacksmith was brought to Tsubame and Sanjo area in Niigata prefecture in the early 17th century, started producing Japanese nails called Wakugi. This area now became an artisan metalsmiths town. You can visit some of those factories, artisans welcome you. In this tour, you will visit Knife factory, Tadafusa and coppenwear factory, Gyokusendo. Both has a long history and you can see their work very closely. You can also visit more factory, Museum or shopping spots where you can find the Tsubame Sanjo quality products.

Available options

For 3 people

Mini Van<br/>Pickup included

For 4 people

Mini Van<br/>Pickup included

Mini Van (Price for 6 pax)

Mini Van (Up to 6 pax)<br/>Pickup included

For 5 people

Mini Van<br/>Pickup included

For 2 people

Regular Car<br/>Pickup included

For 1 person

Regular Car<br/>Pickup included

What's included

Factory tour (Knife factory, Tadafusa and Gyokusen-do)
Private Vehicle
Customizable Tour of your choice of 3-4 sites from 'What to expect' list'
Licensed Local English Speaking Guide

Detailed itinerary

1

Meet your guide at Tsubamesanjo station.

2

Visiting a knife factory, enjoy factory tour and knife shopping.
Tadafusa is striving to pass on Sanjo's blacksmithing techniques to future generations. Their knives are professional knives that is easy to use and suitable for everyday life.
At the "Hocho Kobo Tadafusa Factory Shop,'' next to the factory, there is a display showing a knife on a cutting board, expressing the scene of daily use. In the shop, you can enjoy shopping while experiencing the lively atmosphere of craftsmanship, as the sounds of artisans working in the adjacent factory flow through.
Find the one that meet your needs. Visiting there, you will become a fan of Tadafusa knives.

3

Suwada was established in 1926 in Sanjo City, one of the world’s most renowned cutlery manufacturing hubs, and is a specialist in cutters.
Visitors are invited to witness the entire manufacturing process, immersing themselves in the craftsmanship that has endured since Suwada’s inception. Beyond the tour, you can enjoy the factory store, restaurant, and café for a full day of shopping and dining.

4

Visiting copperware workshop. You can closely see their crafting process at their 100-year-old factory.
For around 200 years, Gyokusendo has been dedicated to crafting hand-hammered copperware.
Gyokusendo offers a diverse range of products that seamlessly complement contemporary living, including teaware, sake ware, kettles, coffee ware, and flower vases.

5

At Tsubame City Industrial History Museum, feel the history and technology of the craftsmen ’s town
“Niigata Prefecture Tsubame” to experience!
At the experience laboratory, mini spoon making, metal craft experience is also possible!

6

The TSUBAMESANJO Regional Products Store is a famous tourist shop where you can find plenty of products made in “Tsubame-Sanjo”, Japan’s No.1 metalware production area.
A wide range of products, from produced made by traditional craftsmanship to those making full use of state-of-the-art technology.
Displaying and selling about 10,000 items of cutlery, knives, kitchen tools, pots, pans, and others.
Particularly, the Hand-Hammered metal craft manufactured by using a copper plate is extremely popular among customers from abroad.

7

A place where you can touch the real thing
They mainly carry products made in Japan and Tsubame-Sanjo.
Among them, they carefully select and display and sell tools that are loved by professionals.

8

Yahiko jinja (弥彦神社), also known as Iyahiko-jinja is a Shinto shrine in the Yahiko neighborhood of the village of Yahiko, Nishikanbara District, Niigata Prefecture, Japan. It is one of the three shrines which claim the title of ichinomiya of former Echigo Province. This shrine standing at the foot of a mountain is popularly known as a power spot for love and good fortune

9

It is located on the 2nd floor of Tsubamesanjo station. You can stop here for souvenir shopping at the end of the tour before leaving Niigata. You can buy Tsubamesanjo's quality goods too.

10

Tour finishes

What's not included

Entrance fees, Lunch, and Other personal expenses
You cannot combine multiple tour groups.
Guide Entry fees are only covered for sights listed under What to Expect.

Available languages

Guide guide
JA EN

Important information

Specialized infant seats are available
Service animals allowed
Public transportation options are available nearby
Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
All areas and surfaces are wheelchair accessible
Transportation options are wheelchair accessible
Wheelchair accessible
Suitable for all physical fitness levels

Meeting point

Your guide will meet you in front of Shinkansen ticket gate in Tsubamesanjo station. Then walk to the vehicle to start a tour.

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.
From $25 per person

Price varies by option

Adults
Age 0-99
1
Booking requirements:
  • Min travelers: 1
  • Max travelers: 6
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Free cancellation available
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