If you’ve been to Japan, you’ve probably been to cities like Tokyo, Osaka and Kyoto. But did you know? Just a 2-hour Shinkansen ride from Tokyo lies a hidden gem that many aren’t aware of.

Niigata prefecture, Japan’s fifth-largest prefecture, sits along the coast of the Sea of Japan and may not be a prefecture that one would think of visiting if it is their first time in Japan. But this region is packed with so much culture, history and not to mention great food! So what exactly is there to do in Niigata? Follow our team as they uncover Niigata!

Check out our 5D4N Japan Itinerary here:

SADO ISLAND (00:22)

00:26 – Nishimikawa Gold Park
Did you know? Sado Island is known as the Island of Gold. So visiting their gold parks is a no-brainer!

00:43 – Chokokuji Temple
This temple houses over 140 rabbits! No wonder it’s been dubbed the bunny temple!

00:59 – Sado Island Taiko Centre
Learn how to play the Taiko drums from world-renowned drum troupe, Kodo!

01:09 – Shukunegi Village
This village dating back to the 17th century is characterised by the crowded rows of over 100 houses built with plate walls made from ship planks! Fun fact: The tub boat from spirited away was inspired by the Tarai boats here!

01:28 – Hotel Yahatakan
Stay in a Japanese Hotel fit for an emperor… literally! Fun fact: This hotel is the official accommodation of the Japanese emperor and his family when they visit Sado Island!

NIIGATA CITY (01:38)

NIIGATA CUISINE (01:43-01:59)

01:43 – Sekai Sushi
Their Aburi Don is a MUST-TRY when in Niigata!

01:48 – Inakaya
Wappameshi is a Japanese dish cooked in special round containers made of thin wooden sheets and is a speciality of the Niigata prefecture!

01:51 – Izakaya
With Niigata situated along the coast of the Sea of Japan, you can be sure their seafood is top-notch!

02:00 – Gotokuya Jube
Dress up as an Oiran and take some sick portraits!

02:12 – Shirone Grape Garden
Try all sorts of fruit at Shirone Grape Garden

02:26 – Rice Cracker Kingdom
Niigata is known for its rice, hence the Rice Cracker Kingdom is a must to visit! Here, you can even make your own rice cracker!

02:41 – Poshukan
Have you ever tried sake from a vending machine, let alone from 100 of them?

TSUBAMESANJO CITY (02:52)

02:59 – Tojiro Knife Factory
Ever wondered what goes behind making a knife fit for the likes of Gordon Ramsay? At the Tojiro Knife Factory, you can literally walk in and observe the knives being skillfully and meticulously made by craftsmen!

03:12 – Tsubame Industrial Materials Museum
Learn about the history of industrial manufacturing in Niigata and try your hand at making your own craft! Fun fact: The majority of cutleries in Japan come from Tsubamesanjo!

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Edited by:
Harris –

Team Japan:
Harris –
Kimberly Lai –

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