（2020 〜）Sado

What is Sado Island?
Sado Island consists of two mountain ranges with plain areas in between. Part of its beautiful
coastline belongs to a quasi-national park. The island was a designated penal colony for political dissidents during the Imperial Court of the Nara Period in the 8th century. The discovery of gold madethe island under direct control of the Tokugawa Shogunate in the 17th century, and the following
marine transport businesses brought positive socioeconomic impacts from other regions of thecountry. The combinations of the aristocratic, samurai and commercial exchanges have fused together
to form a unique culture. Food varieties of land and sea are also a great attraction.

INDEX

Shukunegi Area

2

Sado Island and Niigata City __________________ 02
Sado Map with Fixed Bus Routes ______________ 04
Sado Food _________________________________ 06
Sado Events ________________________________ 08
Sado Culture and Activities ___________________ 10
Sado Model Courses ________________________ 12
Sado Hotels and Shops _______________________ 14
Sado Transportation _________________________ 16

Niigata

What is Niigata City?
The prefectural seat of government, Niigata City is located at the estuary of Japan’s longest river, theShinano. During the Edo period Niigata prospered as a port city on the Kitamae-bune shipping route,and during the last days of the Tokugawa Shogunate Niigata became one of the first 5 ports in Japan
to be opened to outside trade. The Niigata Furumachi Geigi (geisha girls) and the former Niigata
Customs House are living symbols of the port culture that still thrives in the city today. Niigata is not
only home to fertile soil, relaxing hot springs, and beautiful sunsets over the Sea of Japan coast. As
one of Japan’s most prominent rice and sake regions, Niigata City is also the perfect place to enjoyrefined cuisine and fresh seafood from the Sea of Japan.

INDEX

Overlooking the Shinano River, Niigata city night view.

Niigata City Map ____________________________ 18
Niigata Food _______________________________ 20
Niigata Events ______________________________ 22
Niigata Culture and Activities _________________ 24
Niigata Model Courses _______________________ 26
Niigata Hotels and Shops _____________________ 28
Niigata City Transportation ___________________ 30
Sado and Niigata Experience Programs _________ 32
SADO-NIIGATA PASS _________________________ 35
Free Wi-Fi/Getting to Niigata and Sado _________ 36

3

Sado Island

Culture & Activities (p10-11)
Model Courses (p12-13)
Sado Gold Mine (Sado Kinzan)
Shukunegi
C Seisuiji Temple and Guzeden Platform
D Myosenji Temple and Five-story Pagoda Tower
E Ono-game
F Natural Cedar Trees
G Senkakuwan Bay
H Taraibune Tub Boat (Yajima-Kyojima)Ogi Port,
I Gold Panning
J Playing the Drums at Sado Taiko Centre
K Sado Bugyosho, the Office of Magistrate
L Toki-no-mori Koen (Japanese Ibis Center)
M Sado Rekishi Densetuskan,
Sado History and Folk Tale Museum
N Obata Sake Brewery
O Sado Ogi Folk Culture Museum
P Hokusetsu Sake Brewery
Q Kitazawa Flotation
R Kyomachi
S Futatsu-game
A

B

Q
K
E

S

R

Kirarium
Sado

F
G

Tourist information
Hotels (p14-15)
Bus stop
Port (Sadokisen)
AirportA

Bus line
Bus line(Hop-on Hop-off Zone)
see p16-17

L

N
M

D
C

I

J

B O

H2

H1

P

H1

4

5

Food
Sado, with its high mountains, fertile plains and well-stockedseas round about, is a treasury of various tastes.
Fresh seafood and fruit, and the very best quality Koshihikari rice,
are some of the things visitors must try while they are here.
Benizuwaigani(red snow crab)

Red snow crab, or benizuwaigani, caught in thesea near Sado, is exceptionally fresh. It shouldbe eaten as soon as it
is boiled so that its firm
flesh can be appreciated.

Namban-Ebi
Also known as sweet
shrimp, or amaebi, aredelicious when eaten raw
as sashimi.

6

Kamburi (yellowtail)Kaki (oysters)Ika (squid)Buri, or yellowtail, is Sado’s finest
fish. Buri caught in winter, called
Kamburi, when the flesh is fatty ishighly prized as a high quality delicacy typical of Sado.

As it is surrounded by the sea, Sado
offers a rich variety of shellfish
including oysters, sazae or horned
turban, and awabi, or abalone. Oyster farming is also widely practiced.

Huge amount of squid are caught
on Sado, and out at sea in summer visitors can see the fishinglights for luring the squid to theboats. Ika somen, or long, thinstrands of noodle-like squid with awonderful consistency, is anotherdelicacy of Sado.

S a d o

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Burikatsu-donThis specialty comes with a bowl of
Sado’s Koshihikari rice topped withfried yellowtail fish caught in Sado’s
water. Fried pieces are flavored with an
original sauce made from soy-based
ago dashi broth.

Okesa Gaki (a type of persimmon)
A wide variety of fruit is grown on Sado.
Of these, the okesa gaki, a large, flat
type of persimmon without any pit,
is particularly well known. Once theastringent taste has been removed,
the thick, creamy flesh of the fruit isconsidered to be of the finest quality
among persimmons.

Seafood of Sado
Visitors can taste sashimi
and seasonal seafoodcaught in the water surrounding Sado. Enjoy it
in a hotel or restaurant.

Koshihikari &Toki to Kurasu Sato Rice
Koshihikari, cultivated in a lush natural environment, enjoys a reputation as one of Japan’sfinest varieties of rice. Toki to Kurasu Sato (lit, the home of theJapanese crested ibis) Rice is grown with great concern forfood safety with less than half the conventional amount ofpesticides and herbicides.

Sake Breweries
Five breweries produce quality sakeon Sado. Niigata’s select rice and purewater are desirable conditions forbrewing. Plant tours and free sample
are available at most breweries. Enjoy.

a.

b.

c.

d.

e.

a. Manotsuru

b. Hokusetsuc. Shinryod. Tenryohaie. Kintsuru

Obata Shuzoin ManoHokusetsu Shuzoin Akadomari.

Hemmi Shuzoin Nagaishi.

Tenryohai Shuzoin Kamo-Utashiro.

Kato Shuzoin Sawane Sumiya-machi.

7

Events
SpringHina-matsuri Doll Festival

SummerDates: During March
Locations: Aikawa and Ryotsu Areas

Earth Celebration

Japan has a tradition of displaying hina dolls
during this season to celebrate the soundgrowth of girls in early ages. Visitors can see
those classical exhibitions in these areas.

An international music and arts festival held in August. The highlight of the festival is a performance by Kodo, taiko drummers whogive concerts across the world. The festival lasts three days andincludes various events, culminating in an open air concert.

Dates: August

Location: Ogi Area

Many enjoyable activities are held on Sado, from small, traditional festivals
to sports competitions and events with a strong international flavor.

February

Massaki Shoku-no Jin (Taste of Sado in Matsugasaki)
Dates: Mid-February., Location: Oda PortMarch

Ryotsu Ohinasama and Treasure Festival
Dates: During March., Location: Ryotsu area

Aikawa Hina Festival (Doll Festival)

Dates: During March., Location: Aikawa area

Yotteke Festival (Taste of Sado in Mano)

Date: Mid-March., Location: Ibuki 21 (next to Mano Park)

April

Oiran-dochu Parade in Cherry Blossom Festival
Dates: Mid-April., Location: In front of playgrounds ofHamochi Elementary and Junior High School

Daizen Shrine Festival Noh Theatre

Dates: April 18., Location: Daizen Shrine Noh Stage

Date: the second Sunday of June., Location: Ono-game

Kusakari Shrine Annual Festival and Noh Theater
Dates: June 15., Location: Kusakari Shrine

July

Hakusan-maru Festival

Dates: 4th Sunday of July., Location: Sado-koku Ogi Folk Museum

Tanabata Star Festival in the Ocean

Dates: Early July., Location: Kita-koura and Kotoura

AugustAkadomari Minato Matsuri Festival

Dates: 1st Sunday of August., Location: Akadomari Port

Ryotsu Tanabata and Kawabiraki Festival
Dates: August 7 and 8., Location: Ryotsu area

Lighting-up Senkaku-wan Bay

Akadomari Festival

Dates: August 14 and 15.,
Location: Around Senkaku-wan Bay Ageshima Yuen

Ichi-no-miya Festival

Dates: August 29 and 30., Location: Ogi Port area

Date: April 18., Location: Yahata-hachimangu Shirne in Akadomari
Dates: April 23., Location: Hamochi-iioka Watatsu Shrine

May

Donden Plateau Spring Festival

Ogi Minato Matsuri Festival

September

Kuji Hachiman Shrine Festival

Dates: Mid-September., Location: Kujihachimangu Shirine

Dates: Late April to Early May., Location: Donden Lodge

OctoberDates: Mid-May., Location: Chokokuji Temple

Sado-koku Ondeko .com (Onidaiko Festival)

Dates: Early October.,
Location: Spacial Stage by Sado City Niibo Office

June

Sado Fish Festival

Chokokuji Temple Peony Festival

Ondeko in Niibo & Toki Yubae Flea Markets

Dates: Late May., Location: Ondeko Dome

November and December

Yoi-no-mai Dance Parade

Dates: Early November., Location: Ryotsu Fish Market

Dates: Early June.,
Location: Kyo-machi dori Street and Sado Bugyosho

8

Sado Kanzo Festival (Yellow Day-lily Festival)

Osaki Soba-no-kai

Dates: Late November and early Dec., Location: Osaki Kasseika CenterS a d o

佐渡

AutumnOndeko in Niibo & Toki Yubae Flea Markets

Do-oshi Sacred CeremonyDates: Early October Location: Sado City Niibo Office

Dates: January 3rd
Location: Bishamon-do Temple in Tsukibuse, Ryotsu area

This is an active local event in which the main themes
are outdoor stalls, onidaiko, or deity-masked dance,
and toki, or Japanese crested ibis. The event holds theisland’s largest gathering of outdoor stalls, with over 90
shops. A number of onidaiko groups demonstrate theirdance performance with robust drum beats.

Performing Arts

Do-oshi ceremony is intended to ward off evil spirits ofmen in yakudoshi, a set of believed “unlucky” ages. Aftera Buddhist priest has chanted a sutra, bean husks areburned on the hearth and the holy ministers bang on thewooden wall inside the hall, while those men are lifted
up by holy carriers in loin and pushed round the hall. The
event is held in the evening of January 3rd every year.

On Sado, where a variety of cultures met and mingled, different types of
traditional performing arts have been preserved.

Sado Okesa
Folk song and dance style
typical of Japan, with plaintive
tunes and graceful dancing,
visitors can see okesa allover Sado.

Bun-yaNingyoThis puppet
theater isthe originalform of classic joruri. The
simple, minimal performances are played withthe plaintive melody andsongs accompanied by theshamisen.

Onidaiko

Takigi Noh

This is a rare type of traditional performing art found only on Sado. Eacharea of the island has its own stylehanded down from generation to
generation. The performances, where
deity-masked performers dance wildly
to the stirring beat of the drum, is a
Shinto ritual driving out evil spirits andpraying for a good harvest.

Sado Island is a place where Zeami, thefounder of Noh, was exiled in the 15th
century. Local preservation groups occasionally present their performance. Over
30 active outdoor Noh stages are foundon the island. Takigi Noh in particular,
performed beside a bonfire, takes you
back to ancient times.

Sports on Sado
The island hosts various sport events
where participants can sense Sado’s nature.

Suponichi Sado
Long Ride 210

Dates: Mid May.
Start and Finish: Sawata
Location: Sawata

Sado International
Triathlon

Sado Open Water
Swimming

Dates: 1st Sunday of September. Date: 1st Sunday of August.
Start and Finish: Sawata
Start and Finish: Sawata Beach

9Culture and Activities
HISTORY

Many influences and technologies from other regionsof the country and beyond have been introduced to
Sado Island since ancient times and, as a result,the island has developed a unique culture.

A Sado Gold Mine (Sado Kinzan)
Doyu-no-Wareto Outcrop
Sado Gold Mine, the symbol of Sado, was discoveredin 1601 and developed to become an important baseof support for the Tokugawa Shogunate, achieving
maximum prosperity during the early Edo Period in
the 17th century. The split in the mountain,
known as doyu-no-wareto outcrop, was a
result of open-cut mining from the summit.
Although its mining business was discontinued in 1989, visitors can enter and observe
the remaining mining tunnels as historic landmarks and scientific exhibitions of the days ofthe gold mine. Sado Gold Mine has been on the
B Shukunegi
nation’s tentative list of World Heritage candiThe Shukunegi area indate sites to be nominated to UNESCO.
the Ogi Peninsula functioned as a base of themarine transportation
shipbuilding business
form the 18th century to
the early 20th century
and generated a great
C Seisuiji Temple and Guzeden Platform
amount of wealth. NarD Myosenji Temple androw passages and alleys along with closely-packed houses are
Five-story Pagoda Tower
well preserved just as they were long ago. Many houses are builtwith leftover materials of shipbuilding, and one of those houses
Over 280 old shrines and temples can be foundlooks just like a ship. The national government has designatedon Sado. Seisuiji Temple was modeled after
the area as an important historic site, and a local preservation
Kyoto’s Kiyomizudera Temple, while Myosenjigroup has been maintaining this valuable townscape.
Temple features a five-story pagoda tower, anationally designated important cultural asset.

PotteryH

Taraibune Tub Boat

An unusual type of tub boat
was invented by local fishers
out looking for sazae, or
horned turban, and wakame
seaweed in the Ogi area.
Tourists can try out a handson experience on these tubs.
Though it might look a little
scary, there’s no need to worry because an instructor in traditional island
dress will provide instructions in the boat.
10

Visitors can try their hand at making
mumyoi pottery, a type of pottery
unique to Sado, which uses clay containing iron dioxide found adjacent
to Sado Gold Mine.

S a d o

佐渡
Clear water, panoramic views and unspoiled natural beauty
are all here for visitors to enjoy.

NATUREE

Ono-game

There are magnificent views fromthe summit, 167 meters above sea
level, of this enormous, monolithic
rock jutting out of the sea. The area
is carpeted with tobishima kanzo, or
yellow day-lilies in early June, foundin the wild only here and in Tobishima in Akita Prefecture.

F

Natural Cedar Trees

Observe Sado’s natural cedar trees
which have long beenpreserved in areas at analtitude of about 900m.
The weather- beaten
shapes formed over hundreds years give humanbeings a strong message
of how magnificent nature is.

Sado Island’s charm is its many
beautiful beaches and campgrounds.

G

Everybody canenjoy it,even children!
IGold Panning

Sado’s Nishimikawa
Gold Park is a popular attraction set upnear the locations inwhich placer mining
collected gold in thepast. Visitors can experience the thrillof discovering gold deposits and takehome the precious metal obtained.
The exhibition hall displays scientificmaterials, and souvenir items are available in the shop.

Senkakuwan Bay

This area belongs to part of the SadoYahiko-Yoneyama Quasi-National Park,
one of the first registered quasi-nationalparks in 1950. The name of Senkaku is adirect translation of Hardanger Fjord in
Norway because of the similarity in scenic beauty. Visitors can enjoy a glass-bottomed boat cruise through the marine
park zone.

J

Playing the Drums at Sado Island Taiko Centre

Many visitors have great fun at Sado Island
Taiko Centre. Instructors are staff members ofinternationally renowned taiko drum group
Kodo. Participants can also have a try on apair of large
drums made from a 600year old zelkova tree.

Let’s sense thepowerful sound of
the Japanese drum.
11Model Courses
Introduction to the active model courses around Sado’s nature and history by route bus and rental car.
From Niigata to Ryotsu it is 2 hrs and 30 min by car ferry, 65 min by Jetfoil, and 1hr and 40 min directfrom Naoetsu to Ogi by high-speed car ferry.

Two Daysand One Night
Day1
Niigata port
2hrs and 30min

Ryotsu port
5mins on footRental Car Procedure (Ryotsu Area)
60mins by car

There are several car rental services nearby Ryotsu Port.
Some of them even offer a multi-language (or multilingual)car navigation system. For more details see page 16.

Day2
Lodging in Aikawa Area
10min by car

Aikawa flourished thanks to the gold andsilver mine. There are accommodations
along the coast line from which one has amagnificent view over the Sea of Japan andthe sunset. How about enjoying the view
while soaking in an open air Onsen?

A

Sado Gold Mine see p10

Q

Kitazawa Flotation

5min by car
H

Tarai tub Boat see p10

15min by car

You may choose between three locations where you can experienceriding a tub boat: Rikiya Kanko Kisen,
Yajima-Kyoshima, and Shukunegi
Hangiri.
B

Shukunegi see p10

40min by car

Having been a port since the medieval
times, Shukunegi went through the prosperous 17th century brought about by
Sado Kinzan Gold Mine, and developed
as a kitamaebune port of call for the merchant shipping industry. Facing a small
inlet, Shukunegi is characterised by thecrowded rows of over 100 houses built with plate walls madefrom ship planks, and it has been designated as a National
Important Preservation Area for Traditional Buildings andArchitecture. Three private houses are open to the public (admission charges required), and the entire Shukunegi village
represents a history of involvement in ship-related industries.

P

Hokusetsu Sake Brewery

60min by car

Hokusetsu Shuzo Sake Brewery wasestablished in 1872. Hokusetsu isa dry, smooth sake, which evokes
images of heavy snow in the northern provinces. Sake produced by
Hokusetsu is loved at Nobu restaurants in New York, Los Angeles, London, Milan, and Dubai, among
others, which attract celebrities from around the world.

Lodging in Aikawa Area see p141215min by car

The Kitazawa area in Aikawa is home of a group offacilities such as a power
plant and a thickener (designated National HistoricalSite), which contributed tomodernization of mines.
The flotation method hadoriginally been used for copper beneficiation, but at Kitazawa
Flotation Plant, the technniques were applied to silver and gold
extraction, and successfully utilized for the first time in theworld. Under a war-time plan of increase in production, largescale investment was made. As a result, the Flotation Plant wasable to process over 50,000 tonnes of ore per month, and theplant was declared the greatest one in the East.
G

Senkakuwan Bay see p11

Temple and Shrine see p10
30min by car

It is challenging to visit all of Sado's
280 plus temples and shrines, but
how about getting an impressionof Sado's history by visiting two or
three of them?

Rental Car Return
5min on footRyotsu PortS a d o

佐渡

Please be advised that the model courses
suggested in this guide do not ensure
on-time bus operation and connections.
Use this information at your own discretion.

Visitors can stay overnightin a hotel and enjoy thecharm of Sado more deeply.
Japanese-style Onsen inns
are available.
(see p.14-15)

Three Days
and Two Nights

Day2

Day1
Niigata port
2hrs and 30min

Ryotsu port
5min on footLodging in Aikawa Area
10min by car

Bike Rental at Aikawa
Tourism Information,
Kirarium Sado
40min by bikeRental Car Procedure(Ryotsu Area)

Day3
Lodging in Ryotsu Area
60min by car

Ryotsu Port's vicinity is an area where
restaurants line up and from which you
can see the sunrise. It's the locationof Niigata Prefecture's largest lake,
Kamoko, around which Japanese crested
ibises live. You might even get to watch
them flying from your accommodation's
window.

60min by car

GA

SadoGold Mine see p10

R

KyomachiOno-game

15min by car

5min by car

5min on footG

Senkakuwan Bay

40min by bikeS

Kyomachi Street is a main street thatconnects Aikawa's gold and silver
mines with the Sado Commissioner's
Office. Kyomachi Street leads up thehill from Shimokyomachi, where thetime bell tower is located, through Nakakyomachi to Kamikyomachi. In thepast, many residences of both mine-related workers and merchants used tostand side-by-side on this street. The
street itself, studded with narrow alleyways, is a reminder of the haphazard
town planning that took place during
Aikawa's time of prosperity. A symbolic
event of Kyomachi Street, "Yoi-no-mai",is held in early June. Dancers, clad inkimonos of the past, dance to the Aikawa Ondo folk song and accompanying
music.
Q

Return bike at Aikawa
Tourism Information
60min by car

H

Tarai tub Boat

15min by car

H

Shukunegi see p10

40min by carJsee p14

Futatsugame resembles two turtles
nestling closely and the scenery changes
according to the tide. The water around
Futatsugame is the clearest in Sado, andFutatsugame Bathing Beach has been
selected as one of the Top 100 Sea-Bathing Spots in Japan. Futatsugame is also
listed with two stars on the Michelin
Green Guide, along with Onogame.

Kodo Taiko Centre see p11
Temple and Shrine see p10
30min by car

Rental Car Return

Kitazawa Flotation

Lodging in Aikawa Area

Futatsu-game

5min on footLodging in Ryotsu Area
see p14

Ryotsu Port13

Hotels and Shops
HOTELSSAKURA QUALITY
Sakura Quality is a systemfor valuing the quality ofjapanese hotels and otherlodgings. The higher the
rating, the better the qualityof the accommodation. The
rating is done by a private
unbiased investigator.

Sado’s hotels and ryokan offer tourists comfortablestays with delicious seasonal offerings and onsen.
The island is divided into 4 areas:
Ryotsu, Aikawa, Sawata and Ogi.

S = Sakura Quality

Ryotsu Area

Aikawa Area

Sawata Area

1

Minami Ryokan
215-1 Sumiyoshi, Sado Island
Tel. 0259-27-5621

11

Hotel Mancho
58 Aikawa-Orito, Sado Island
Tel. 0259-74-3221

17 Sawata Onsen Hotel Iriumi
782 Kubota, Sado Island
Tel. 0259-52-3521

2 Sado Green Hotel Kiraku
658 Harakuro, Sado Island
Tel. 0259-27-6101

12 Ryokan Doyu
333-1 Aikawa-Kabuse, Sado Island
Tel. 0259-74-3381

18 Ryokan Urashima S
978-3 Kubota, Sado Island
Tel. 0259-57-3751

3 Hotel New Katsura
696 Harakuro, Sado Island
Tel. 0259-27-3151

13 Hotel Meoto
1267-5 Takose, Sado Island
Tel. 0259-76-2511

19 Hotel Yahatakan S
2043 Yahata, Sado Island
Tel. 0259-57-2141

4 Sunset & Lake The Hotel Aokiya
685 Harakuro, Sado Island
Tel. 0259-27-4145

14 Hotel Azuma
548-1 Aikawa-Oura, Sado Island
Tel. 0259-74-0001

20 Tabino Hotel Sado
113-12 Chigusa, Sado Island
Tel. 0259-58-8020

5 Sado Grand Hotel
4918-1 Kamo-Utashiro, Sado Island
Tel. 0259-27-3281

15 Hotel Familio Sadoaikawa
1267-1 Ogawa, Sado Island
Tel. 0259-75-1020

6 Hotel Shiiya S
4916-7 Kamo-Utashiro, Sado Island
Tel. 0259-27-2127

16 Hotel Osado S
288-2 Aikawa-Kabuse, Sado Island
Tel. 0259-74-3300

7 Ryotsu Yamaki Hotel S
66 Akitsu, Sado Island
Tel. 0259-23-4141
8 Kagetsu Hotel
262 Ryotsu-Ebisu, Sado Island
Tel. 0259-27-3131
9 Yoshidaya Ryokan S
261-1 Ryotsu-Ebisu, Sado Island
Tel. 0259-27-2151
10 Sado Futatsugame View Hotel S
1116-2 Washizaki, Sado Island
Tel. 0259-26-2311

14

Ogi Area
21 Ogi Onsen Ryokan Kamomeso
11-7 Ogimachi, Sado Island
Tel. 0259-86-2064

S a d o

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SHOPS

The below is a list of some shops forsouvenirs as well as OTC-medicine andtoiletries.

Shop Name

Location

Lawson Convenience Store Chain

Mano, Aikawa, Sawata,
Hamochi etc.

Open: 24 hours
Kodama (Pharmacy & Supermarket) Ryotsu, Sawata-Cocokarafine Group
8:00þ21:00 (Ryotsu 9:00~ᴦ
Welcia (Pharmacy & Supermarket)

Ryotsu, Sawata, Niibo

9:00þ22:00 (Ryotsu ~24:00ᴦ
Matsumoto Kiyoshi(Pharmacy & Supermarket)

Sawata, Mano

9:00þ22:00
Tsuruha Drug
(Pharmacy & Supermarket)

Sawata9:00þ21:00
King (Supermarket)

Ryotsu, Sawata, Aikawa etc.

9:00þ19:00
Matsuya (Supermarket)

Ryotsu, Sawata, Mano, Kanai

9:00þ20:00
Marui (Supermarket)

Sawata9:00þ21:00
A-Coop (Supermarket)

Niibo, kanai, Ogi, Akadomari etc.

9:00þ19:30 ªClosing time may vary seasonally at each shop.
Souvenir Shop Street in Ryotsu Port

Ryotsu Port

8:00þ17:00 ªClosing time may vary seasonally at each shop.
Souvenir Shop Ogiya

Ogi Port

9:00þ17:00ªClosed from the end of November to the end of February.

15

Transportation (From Niigata to Sado)
Visitors can cross by sea from Niigata, or Naoetsu. Refer tothe section “Transportation to Niigata” for access details
from other major cities to Niigata.

To SadoShip course

Car Ferry
The car ferry takes 2 hours and 30
minutes between Niigata and Ryotsu.
Apart from the large, carpeted 2nd classlounge, reservations are required for all
upper class seats. There is also a suite
complete with a reception room. Reservations can be made at all Sado Kisen
information desks and travel agencies.
Early reservations for vehicles are recommended.

Jetfoil
The jetfoil takes just 65 minutes. All seats must be reserved. Tickets
are available from Sado Kisen information desks, travel agencies andthe JR Midori-no-madoguchi (Reservation Ticket Office).

Port of Departure

Craft

Time

Fast Car Ferry Akane
Naoetsu Port - Ogi Port : For 1 hour and40 minutes.

Niigata Port – Ryotsu Port

JetfoilFerry

65 min.
2 hours 30 min.

Naoetsu Port – Ogi Port

Fast Car Ferry Akane

1 hour 40 min.

Sado Kisen
http://www.sadokisen.co.jp/en/

Getting from Niigata to Sado

On SadoThere is no rail transport on Sado Island. However, multiple other methods of are available,
including car rentals. Information about the various modes of transport on the island,along with contact addresses and telephone numbers can be found following.

Car Rentals
Ryotsu Area

Ogi Area
Akadomari Area
Niibo Area

Another way of seeing the island is to rent a car when you arrive on Sado. Choose
the type of car according to the number of passengers. Many tourists rent cars
during the high season so early reservation is recommended. This is a good way to
see the island for visitors who come with a small group of friends.

Sado Kisen Kanko Co., Ltd. (Tel. 0259-27-5195)
Watanabe Sansyou Co., Ltd. (Tel. 0259-27-5705)
Toyota Rental Lease (Tel. 0259-27-2100)
Times Rental Car Ryotsu Office (Tel. 0259-24-7211)
Island Rent-a-car (Tel. 0259-23-2455)
Nippon Rent-a-car (Tel. 0259-23-4020)
Niko Niko Rental Car (Tel. 090-1883-9747)
Kigaruni Rent-a-Car (Tel. 0259-58-8031)
Sado Rental Car (Tel. 0259-86-3010)
Aburaya Rental Car (Tel. 0259-67-7791)
Maesado Unso Co., Ltd. (Tel. 0259-87-3101)
JA Rental Car (Tel. 0259-22-3133)

A valid international driving permit (IDP) is needed to drive a vehicle
in Japan. Please be advised that an IDP must be issued by a signatory
country to the 1949 Geneva Convention.

16

Tourist
Taxi
This is a good way to see the islandfor visitors who you come with a small
group of friends. Small taxis for fivepeople, medium-sized ones for six
people, and jumbo taxis for ten people,
including the driver in each case, areavailable. There are 17 regular sightseeing routes, but special arrangements can be made upon request.

S a d oTransportation (on Sado)

佐渡Roads on Sado are slightly narrower than those on the mainland and there are a large
number of tunnels. There is no railway. Cars are the principal means of transportation, but
the bus network covering the whole island is also widely used both by locals and tourists.
Regular tourist buses, taxis and car rentals are also an important means of transport.

PrivateCars

Bus

Generally speaking, cars are the principal means oftransport. Since Sado is bigger than many people would
think, there is often quite a distance between point ofarrival and destination. If driving on Sado, it is wise toprepare for ample fuel and time.

Convenient& Good deal

Fixed Route Bus Passes
There are 16 fixed bus routes on
the island which can take visitors
to places where tourist buses do
not go. During the tourist season
there are additional bus services,for convenience, to Sado Gold
Mine and Sobama Beach. The funof bus journeys on the island isthat, with the exception of certain
parts of main routes, visitors canhop on and off as often as theywish. Some routes offer less frequent services. English bus timetables are available at the tourist
information offices.
Fares for fixed route buses arecalculated based on the distancetraveled each trip (up to ¥820), andpayment is made when passengers
get off. Bus passes are also available. See right.

Regular
Sightseeing Buses
Guided sightseeing bus
tours comfortably takeparticipants to selectspots. These tours are
all Japanese. The tours
may be canceled due toirregular conditions. No
partial refunds for leaving the tour early.

Passes are available at the following information offices: Niigata
Kotsu Sado in Ryotsu, Aikawa, Sawata, and Ogi; Sado Kisen Niigata
Port and Naoetsu Port; and on board the Sado Kisen car ferry.

Three-dayTwo-day

One-day

Unlimited bus ride forthree consecutive days
Adults: ¥3,000Children: ¥1,500

Unlimited bus ride fortwo consecutive days
Adults: ¥2,500
Children: ¥1,250

Unlimited bus
ride for one-day
Adults: ¥1,500
Children: ¥750

Pass

Pass

Pass

These passes provide discount benefits at the service providers.
More detail information, visit http://www.sado-bus.com/

Bus Line (Hop on-off Zones) See p4-5 MAP
Hop-on/Hop-off zones indicated by dotted lines allow passengers to get on
and off a bus on fixed-route services anywhere. Raise a hand so that the bus
driver can easily recognize it, and notify him/her approximately 100m before
getting off. Hop-on/Hop-off services
are not available on the solid lines.
Passes are also available. See above.

Rent-a-cycle
PlacesSado Tourism Association Offices:
Ryotsu Area: Ryotsu Port Tourist Information Office
Ogi Area: Minami-Sado Tourist Information Office
Aikawa Area: Aikawa Tourist Information Office
Others:Sawata Area: Niigata Kotsu Sado Tourist Information Office
Futatsu-game Area: Sado Futatsu-game View Hotel
Akadomari Area: Sado Kisen Akadomari Port

Tel. 0259-27-5000
Tel. 0259-86-3200
Tel. 0259-74-2220
Tel. 0259-57-2121
Tel. 0259-26-2311
Tel. 0259-87-3101

Rental cycles are battery-assisted bikes. Users will be liable for costs of damages
in case of accidents due to negligence.

17

Niigata City Map

MAP A

The Niigata
Saito Villa

Northern Culture Museum Niigata Branch

Matsumoto Kiyoshi

Pier Bandai Market

Can Do2

Nuttari Terrace
StreetMinemura Miso
Brewery










 





Matsumoto Kiyoshi

Culture & Activities (p24-25), Model Courses (p26-27)
Bandai Bridge
Former Niigata Customs House – City history Museum “Minatopia”
C Northern Culture Museum
D The Niigata Saito Villa
E Fukushimagata Wetlands
F Wetlands Museum “View Fukushimagata”
G Echigo Nanaura Seaside Line
H Rice Cracker WorldI Shirone Grape Garden
J Imayotsukasa Sake Brewery
K Takarayama Sake Brewery
L Sake Museum “Ponshu-Kan”
M Shinano Riverside Promenade “Yasuragi-Tei”
N Enkikan HallO Prefectural Memorial HallP Former Ozawa Family Residence
Q Pier Bandai Market
R Toyanogata Lagoon
S DENKA BIG SWAN STADIUM
T Ikutopia Food & Flower Complex
U City Aquarium “Marinepia”
Shugetuji Temple
V Aoyama Beach
Sakata Wetlands
W Cave d’Occhi Winery
Hokkoku Kaido
X Cave d’Occhi Vinespa
Local Products CenterY Iwamuro Onsen (Hot spring)“Furusato-mura”
Z Niigata City Tourist Facility Iwamuroya
A

B

18

Sasaiwai
Sake Brewery

Northern Culture Museum

Saruwada

19

Food
Niigata is a culinary wonderland. Our rich culinary heritage has been
shaped by Niigata’s variegated topography, with ingredients from the sea,rivers, mountains and fields. Bon appetit!

NodoguroThis premium white fish is one of the mostdelicious kinds of local fish in Niigata. It iscalled Nodoguro (literally “black throat”)
because of its distinctive, charcoal coloredthroat. It can be enjoyed salt grilled, raw,
or char-grilled.

Fresh Seafood:Nanban Shrimp
These are best eaten locallysince freshness is everything.
They melt in the mouth.

Niigata Sushi Zanmai Kiwami
A limited-time sushi set specially created by
local sushi chefs. Comprised of ten types ofsushi, the set includes a selection of the finest
seasonal catches such as uni (sea urchin roe),chu toro (medium-grade fatty tuna), and ikura(salmon roe). The set costs ¥3,500 before tax.
Tel: 025-246-3020 (Niigata Prefectural Sushi
Merchant Environmental Health Association)

Tarekatsu Donburi
A famous Niigata gourmet dish. It
consists of a large bowl of rice (donburi) topped with a cutlet fried in breadcrumbs, cut into thin strips, and mixed
with an exotic sweet and sour sauce.

Hanmi-age

A local cuisine that combines
delicacies from both mountainand sea. Ingredients are steamed
over rice in a wappa—a special cylindrical container
made from Japanesecedar.

It with a spice that was formulated the curry powder and salt
in a half body of the chicken,
which was fried at high temperatures. Outside is crispy,
juicy inside.

Koshihikari Rice
Japan’s most delicious type of rice,fluffy and gleaming when steamed.
Everyone wants a second helping.

Niigata Restaurant Guide by Gurunavi
20

Wappa Rice

Light, dry sake brewed with a winning combination of highSake quality sake rice, sweet water, and Niigata’s ideal climate.
There are fourteen sake breweries in the City of Niigata.

Sake no Jin(Niigata Sake Festival) see p23

pairing with
Sake
Chamamebeans
Produced in thecity’s Kurosaki
district, thesebeans are famousthroughout Japan. Delicious and fullof flavor, each bean is like a mouthfulof Niigata’s summer.

Hegi Soba

Noppe
A local representative dish indispensable during
New Years andon ceremonial
occasions. Flavored with light soy
sauce, fish stock, and juice from thetaro root, this dish is filled with thetaste of the sea and mountains.

A special local
soba noodle
served in delicate
bite-sized coils
and arranged ina wooden box known as a “Hegi.”
These noodles mix buckwheat andseaweed for a pleasantly smooth
and unique texture.

And many more delicious foods!

Kakinomoto
Echigohime Strawberries

Le Lectier Pears

Meaning Princess of Echigo, Echigohime is a type of strawberry developed in Niigata, so-called because it
is as sweet and pretty as a princess.

A pear whose cultivation has
been centered around Niigata’s
Minami ward for more than
100 years. You can enjoy it’scharacteristic mellow flavor
and melt in the mouth
texture in winter.

Niigata RamenThin curly noodles in light soy
sauce broth with dried sardine
stock type and thick noodles in afull bodied vegetable stock withheavy miso type ramen.

Chrysanthemum flowers have been eaten
in Niigata for hundreds of years. Edible
purple chrysanthemums are harvested
every autumn in the city’s Minami
ward. The flowers are loved for theircharacteristic texture.

Sasa Dango
A representative local sweet.
These dump lings are made from yomogi-flavored glutinous rice and red bean paste wrappedand steamed in a bamboo leaf.

Poppo-yaki
A chewy, brown sugar
flavored specialty sweet
representative of Niigata
City. Traditionally served
at festival stands.
21

Events

SpringNiigata Hanae Project

Dates: Late April to Early May
Location: Niigata Station South Exit Plaza

Niigata City is one of the country’s major tulip
producers. Participants at this event create a giant“flower painting” using tulips discarded in the process of bulb cultivation. The flowers come in six
colors: red, white, yellow, pink, orange, and purple.
The “painting” is created by inserting the remnant
stems into the holes in the “canvas” board.

SummerNiigata Festival
Dates: Early August.,

Location: Furumachi and Bandai

Three days of excitement in Niigata. On the first day 14,000
people dance at Japan’s biggest folksong event. On the second
day there is a parade full of Japanese atmosphere. The final day
concludes with a fireworks display. The grande finale, when fireworks are set off to music, is most impressive.

There are many more fun events where visitors canexperience seasonal scenes and flowers, food and art.
February

June

Niigata Shoku no Jin Food Festival
Datesº Mid-February.,
Locationº Furumachi area and other venues

Shirone Giant Kite Battle
Datesº Early June
Locationº Nakanokuchigawa River Bank

AugustA heroic kite battle,the biggest of its
kind in the world,where enormous kite
7m high,5m wide and weighing 50kg
get entangled with each other.

Come hear top Japanese singers inconcert, while watching a magnificent
sunset at the same time. The concert isperformed on a stage set up directly on
the city’s Aoyama Beach.

Enjoy sushi delights preparedby participatingsushi chefs; original sake cocktails
concocted by participating bartenders;various types of nabe (hot pots) and otherlocal specialties; and much more.

April
Niigata Harusaki Festa
Datesº Mid-April.,
Locationº Shinanogawa River Yasuragi
Embankment（left bank）

July
Niigata Jazz Street
Datesº Mid-July.,
Locationº Bandai, Furumachi, andHakusan areas

The banks of the Shinanogawa River incentral Niigata are famous for their cherry
blossoms and tulips. Mid-April is the timeto enjoy the explosion of color.

22

Local musicians and musicians fromfurther afield play different styles of jazzon some 30 different stages in the City of
Niigata. This event is also held in winter.

Japan Sea Sunset Concert
Dates: Early August.,
Location: Aoyama Beach Stage

October

Niitsu Railway Festival
Dates: Mid-October., Location: Niitsu
Station Exit Plaza
To promote therailway town ofNiitsu various
events are heldsuch as the operation of mini
steam locomotives in the square in front of Niitsu
Station, a stage show, or an exhibition ofrailway materials.

Niigata

新潟

AutumnWinterNiigata Soh Odori Festival

Sake no Jin (Niigata Sake Festival)

Dates: Mid-September., Location: Furumachi and Bandai areas

Dates: Mid-March., Location: Toki Messe

A dance festival that is a revival of the festival held in
Niigata 300 years ago where people danced for fourdays and nights. Over 15,000 dancers perform a wide
variety of dances.

A major event for Niigata Prefecture, home to the largest
concentration of sake brewers in the country. Here you cansample over 500 varieties, from approximately 90 local
brewers! Just purchase a tasting ticket, and you’re on yourown. Niigata sake is known for its own distinctive taste. And,of course, it goes great with the Niigata food on offer, too.

Niigata Anime &Manga Festival
Dates of: Mid-October,
Location: Bandai, Furumachi, andHakusan areas

Birthplace of many important manga
artists, Niigata City celebrates the art
form with this festival. Enjoy voice-actor
performances, anime and manga exhibits, cosplay photo events, a painted-car
exhibition, and more.

December to January
Niigata Pageant of Lights
Dates: Early December to
Mid-January., Location: Keyaki Street,on the south side of Niigata Station

Seasonal

Views

Fujidana Wisteria TrellisAutumn Leaves

The Northern Culture Museum (seeP25) exhibits the greatest landowner's residence of Ito family in Echigo(old name of Niigata). From about
the middle of May each year thewisteria flowers taken from one treeof 150 year old fill up its courtyard.
The beautiful wisteria trellis is lit up
during the season.

In many areas of Niigata city you canenjoy the colored leaves in autumn, andat the Nakano house maple garden in
Akiha ward there are 2,000 maple treesof 130 varie ties changing color; it is afamous place for colored autumn leaves.
You can enjoy the beauty of the coloredautumn leaves also at the Niigata Saito
Villa (see P25) and at the Shugetsu-ji
temple (see P27).

Sports in Niigata

Popular sports events are collected here which
include the marathon where you can run along
the Sea of Japan and the Shinano riverside,and the soccer held at the beautiful stadium.

A beautiful light display honoring
winter in Niigata—with 260,000
lamps adorning approximately
200 trees along Keyaki Street (onthe south side of Niigata station).

Niigata City Marathon

A marathon founded in 1983 on civic participation which runs throughthe capital of water, Niigata City.

SoccerYou can enjoy the J
League Albirex teammatches in their hometown of Niigata City.

23

Culture and Activities
Port Town Niigata
The old Furumachi/Shimomachi downtown area wasonce lined with canals. With many old houses,
this part of town still looks much as it did in the past.

A

The new symbol at one end of the
Bandai Bridge, up the 20 stairs of the
Niigata Nippo (Niigata Daily Newspaper) Mediaship, is “The Open Spaceof the Sky.” It is approximately 100m
above ground and you can enjoy a 360
degree panoramic view.

Bandai Bridge

An important national cultural asset, the 306.9 meter long
Bandai Bridge spans Japan’s longest river, the Shinano.
With its granite sides and six elegant arches, this bridge isthe symbol of
Niigata City.

Former Niigata
Customs House City history Museum”Minatopia ”
B

Furumachi Geigi
The Furumachi Geigi ( geisha) district indowntown Niigata ranks alongside Kyoto’s Gion district and Tokyo’s Shinbashi
geisha area. The geisha scene here wasvery lively 200 years ago, as seafaring
visitors delighted in the lovely dances
and treats of geisha society. Some of thisculture can still be found here today.

Of the five Japanese ports first opened to overseas
trade, the Port of Niigata is the only one whose
former customs house, is still extant. A nationally
Designated Important Cultural Property, it is a precious structure built with the technology of the timein imitation of western style architecture. The History Museum presents
the history of Niigata City and its long struggle with the water.
Tel: 025-225-6111., Opening Times: 9:30-18:00 (17:00 October to March)., Closed:
Monday (the following day if Monday
is a public holiday)., Price: Adults ¥300,
high school students ¥200, junior highschool and elementary school students¥100., Customs House is free

Grilling your own rice crackers at Niigata
H

Rice Cracker World

Niigata Prefecture is Japan’slargest producer of rice crackers. At Niigata Sembei Okoku
you can watch rice crackers
being made, learn about the
manufacturing process, andtry making your own.
Tel: 025-259-0161., Opening Times:
9:30-17:00., Closed: Open every day., (occasionally closed due
to circumstances)24

Picking fruit at theI

Shirone Grape Garden

A tourist farm where you canenjoy fruit all year round. You canpick the fruit off the tree and eat
as much as you want. The gelato isalso popular.
Tel: 025-362-5535.,
Price: Open every day

Niigata

新潟

HISTORYD

Gono, or greatest land owners, laid the foundations that allowed Niigata to
become Japan’s premier rice-belt. The stately manors and gardens of thelandowners are a powerful testament to the prosperity of the past.

The Niigata Saito Villa

C

Northern Culture Museum

The villa built in the Taisho era by Kijuro Saito, thefourth generation of the Saito business magnate
family. You can thoroughly enjoy strolling through thegarden and the beauty of the modern Japanese-stylebuilding. Together withthe garden walk, looking
at the garden from therooms is also splendid.
Exhibitions are held fromtime to time, too.

The residence of the Itohfamily, the greatest of the
Niigata landowners, is open
to the public as a museum. It
is an enormous manor withsixty-five rooms, of which themost impressive is the one
hundred tatami mat room which was used only for importantceremonial occasions, and looks out onto a breathtaking garden. Some Japanese films have been shot here as well.

Tel: 025-210-8350., Opening Times: from Apr. to Sep. 9:3018:00, from Oct. to Mar. 9:30-17:00., Closed: Monday (IfMonday is a holiday, closes Tuesday instead)., Price: Adults¥300, elementary and junior high school students ¥100,(Weekends and holidays: Admission is free).

Tel: 025-385-2001., Opening Times: 9:00-17:00., (-16:30 December
to March) Closed: Open every day., Price: Adults ¥800, elementaryand junior high school students ¥400 (Sun & Nat. Holidays: Jr. HighSchool Students and younger get in free)E

Fukushimagata Wetlands

The largest wetlands in Niigata Prefecture. The pastoral scenery and flowers
surrounding it are reminiscent of Niigata’s past. Fukushimagata was selected
as one of Japan’s 100 most beautiful
natural areas.
F

NATURE

SakataWetlands
Ramsar Convention Wetlands. You canadmire approximately 3,000 swans flying
in every year, and the precious aquaticplants like water lily in clusters.

Wetlands Museum “View Fukushimagata ”
Presenting the history, animals and plants of
the Fukushimgata Wetlands. From the 3rd floor
the building’s glass walls provide a 360 degree
panoramic view.
Tel: 025-387-1491., Opening Times: 9:00-17:00.,
Closed: Monday (the following day if Monday is a
public holiday) and New Year., Price: Adults ¥400,
elementary and junior high school students ¥200

Echigo Nanaura
Seaside LineG

A popular route for a drivewith wonderful scenery, craggy
rocks, and the Japan Sea breaking on the shore. The view ofthe sunset is also glorious.

Sake BreweriesJ

Imayotsukasa Sake Brewery

Tel: 025-245-3231., Location: 1-1-1 Kagamigaoka, Chuo ward, Niigata City., Opening Times:
9:00-16:00 (reservations required).,Closed: New Year Holiday., Price: FreeK

Takarayama Sake Brewery

Tel: 0256-82-2003
Location: 1380 Ishise, Nishikan ward, Niigata City.,
Opening Times: 9:00-11:30, 13:00-16:30 (reservations
required)., Open Every Day., Price: Free

Sake TastingL

Sake Museum“Ponshu-Kan ”

Tel. 025-240-7090
Getting There: Very close to Niigata Station
west exit., Opening Times: 9:30-20:15., Opens:every day., Price: 5 cups of sake for ¥50025

Model Courses

These 1-day courses are a great way to experience Niigata City by foot, bike, or bus. Have alittle more time? Rent a car and try one of the 1-night 2-day courses on the next page.
Hot springs and more await!
One
One
One
Day
Day
Day

(walk)

Niigata Station 15min. on footA Bandai
Bridgesee p24
5min. on footM Shinano Riverside
Promenade “Yasuragi-Tei”

15min. on footBoth banks ofthe downstream
Shinano River
have civic resting dikes. Whilefeeling the river
breeze you canwalk and cycle.
Rows of cherry
blossom trees
costarring with tulips are beautiful
in spring. The view from the Shianano River Water Shuttle (see p31)
are beautiful in spring.

N

(bus)

Niigata Station

A bus that takes you around the main tourist
attractions in the Niigata City center. The bus
is decorated with manga cartoons by Niigata
manga artists. A day bus pass entitles you
to a discount on the entrance price to sometourist attractions.
For BusTel: 025-246-6333.,
Information
Price: One day passsee p30Adult ¥500

10min. by cycle

Niigata Station 30min. by bus
D

The Niigata Saito VillaO

20min. on footThe old Niigata Prefectural AssemblyHall which was constructed in 1883.
With beauty particular to Westernization, it has been appointed an
important cultural property.

Niigata Station
26

R

For Rent-aCycle information
see p30

Toyanogata Lagoon

A lagoon 2-3km southwest from Niigata Station. The surrounding neighborhood consists of 3 areas, there is
Toyanogata Park, canal and stadium,
dotted with cultural spots such as thePrefectural Niigata Science Museum
and library, and rest spots.

P
Former Ozawa Family
Residence 6min. by bus

The open house and store of the Ozawa’s who was a rice dealer since thelatter part of the Edo era and becamea shipping agent in the early Meiji era.
You can come to know a typical house,“Machi-ya”, in the town of Niigata.

S
DENKA BIGSWAN STADIUM

5min. by cycle

The Denka Big Swan Stadium islocated in a sports park within Toyanogata Park, where home games
are held for the Albirex Niigata
soccer team. Many people enjoy awalk with the comfortable waterside
open space in the surrounding canals which flow in front.

Enkikan Hall

Prefectural Memorial Hall

south exit.
10min. by cycle

see p25
6min. by bus

5min. on foot.

The former residenceof one of Niigata’best known wealthy
merchants. Enjoy a
cup of green tea anda Japanese cake inthese elegant surroundings.

(rent-a-cycle)

Niigata City Loop Bus

B Former Niigata Customs House– Niigata City History Museum‘‘Minatopia’’ see p24

6min. by bus

T

Ikutopia Food & Flower
Complex
20min. by cycle

Restaurants & markets selling fresh fish,
locally grown vegetables, rice, processedfood products, local
sake, and more!

The spot’s theme isthe food and flowers
Niigata City is proudof. “Food and Flower
Growing Center”, you
can enjoy an experience at the “Child
Creative Center,” meet Alpacas at the“Animal Contact Center,” and there isalso shops, restaurants and gardens.

Tel: 025-249-2560 (Bandai Nigiwai Sozo)
Opening Times: 9:00~21:00 (varies by
location)., Closed:Varies by location

Tel: 025-384-8732.,
Opening Times: 9:00~17:00., Closed:
irregular holidays

Niigata Station

Niigata Station south exit.

Q

Pier Bandai Market

8min. by bus

Niigata新潟
Two Daysand One Night
Niigata Station
U(Rent-a-car)

1st day

City Aquarium “Marinepia”

Echigo Nanaura Seaside Linesee p25Y

15min.

Sakata Wetlands see p25
15min.

Iwamuro Onsen 10min.

You can observe waterfowl andaquatic plans with a field scopefrom the observation space of the“Sakata Waterfowl and Wetlands
Center”.
Tel: 025-264-3050,
Opening Times:
9:00-16:30.,
Closed: Monday
Year-end and New
Year holidays

The foremost aquarium on the Japan
Sea, with a dolphin show every day.
Tel: 025-222-7500 (Opening Times: 9:0017:00., Closed: New Years, the first Thursday
and following Friday of March., Price: Highschool students and older ¥1500, elementaryand junior high school students ¥600, age 4till elementary school ¥200

V

Aoyama Beach 15min.

Close from the Niigata City neighbourhood, there is a wide shore fullof people enjoying marine sports.
Sea of Japan Sunset Concert (p.22)
meeting place.
W Cave d’Occi
Winery 40min.

Surrounded byvast vineyards, thewinery produces
only pure Japanesewine. The cellars offer wine-tasting(Adults: Field trip of wine making¥1,620, reservation is required). Caved’Occi is also home
to a wide range ofrestaurants.
Tel: 0256-77-2288 (Opening Times: 10:00-17:00
depending on the facility).,
Closed: Open every day
X

Cave d’Occi Vinespa

A spa complex amid the vineyards
where you can relax and enjoy thescenery, the wine and the spa. You
can also stay the night. The perfumed bath is particularly popular.
Tel: 0256-77-2226., Opening Times: Onsen(Day Trip)., Weekdays 10:00~22:00 Weekends& Holidays 7:00~22:00., Closed: Open everyday., Price: Entrance Fee ¥1,000 ¥600 after
17:00 on weekdays

A Onsen that has prospered as aninn town since the Edo Period. The
waters help to alleviate neuralgia
and rheumatism and make theskin beautifully smooth. There are
thirteen old inns at the Onsen which
pride themselves on their cuisine.
Tel: 0256-82-5715., Iwamuro Onsens Tourist
Association

2nd day

Niigata City Tourist
Facility Iwamuroya 5min.
Z

Nishikan ward history and culture
centered around Iwamuro Onsen,
posting of tourist information. You
can enjoy eating and drinking
spaces, shops, and foot bathing at
Iwamuro Onsen
too. Events such as
the Firefly Festival
a n d Fa r m h o u s e
Dining are held too.

Hokkoku Kaido
At the village and Iwamuro Onsenat the foot of Kakuda mountainin Nishikan ward, there was the
Hokkoku Highway where peoplecame and went from in the Edo era,it leads from Niigata to Naoetsu.
Dotted around still are stone signs,
historical and liquor brewing sites.

Local Products Center“Furusato-mura ” 30min.

Tel: 0256-82-1066,
Opening Times: 9:00-19:00
Closed: The first and third Wednesday

Roadside station providing a wide
range of special products, local cuisine
and tourist information. There is also
an unusual section with snow falling.

Shugetsuji Temple 10min.

Tel: 025-230-3030., Opening Times:
Bazaar Hall 9:30-17:30 Appeal Hall 9:0017:00., Closed: Open every day

This is one of
the largest of
Echigo Soto
sect’s 4 temples such as
the Untouan
temple in Minami-Uonuma
City. The main
hall of the Buddhist temple has
been designated an important cultural property. It was founded in
the Bun-an era 3 (1446).
Tel: 0256-82-2160

Niigata Station

Sale of local sake,rice, fresh fish andsweets.

south exit. 30min.

27

Hotels and Shops
HOTELS
The hotels of Niigata city area are concentrated
in the 4 areas. In the suburban area more than
20 minute drive by car, there are also
business hotels, and Onsen hotels
in the Iwamuro Onsen area (see P27).

NiigataSta.

S = Sakura Quality

Niigata Station (Bandai Exit) Area
1

RAMADA HOTEL NIIGATA

1-2-4, Benten, Chuo-ku

Tel. 025-244-5151
2 NIIGATASTATION HOTEL
1-2-10, Benten, Chuo-ku

34 TOYOKO INN (Niigata-Furumachi)
7-1168-2, Kami-okawamaedori, Chuo-ku

Niigata Station (South Exit) Area

6-1037, Higashibiridori, Chuo-Ku

18

SINGLE INN NIIGATA 3

Tel. 025-256-8851
19

HOTEL METS NIIGATA

Tel. 025-243-5151
3 NIIGATA KEIHIN HOTEL

1-96-47, Hanazono, Chuo-ku

Tel. 025-249-1177
4 APA HOTEL NIIGATA

1-1, Sasaguchi, Chuo-ku

Tel. 025-227-1045
35 APA HOTEL (Niigata-Furumachi)

Tel. 025-229-2211
36 APA HOTEL (Niigata-Higashinakadori)Tel. 025-246-2100
20 ART HOTEL NIIGATA STATION

2-289-2, Higashinakadori, Chuo-ku

1-3-15, Benten, Chuo-ku

Tel. 025-240-2111
21 NIIGATA TERMINAL INN

20min. from Niigata Station by car

2-1-21, Higashiodori, Chuo-ku
2-1-6, Benten, Chuo-ku

Tel. 025-245-1100
22 TERMINAL ART INN

Tel. 025-280-9811
38 COMFORT INN NIIGATA KAMEDA

2-3-35, Benten, Chuo-ku

Tel. 025-246-7111
23 NIIGATA PARK HOTEL

Tel. 025-249-3611
5 NIIGATA TOEI HOTEL S

Tel. 025-244-7101
6 COURT HOTEL NIIGATA
Tel. 025-247-0505
7 TOYOKO INN (Niigata ekimae)
1-2-2, Hanazono, Chuo-ku

Tel. 025-241-1045
8 NIIGATA DAIICHI HOTEL
1-3-12, Hanazono, Chuo-ku

ROUTE INN NIIGATA KENCHO MINAMI

1-15-1, Sasaguchi, Chuo-ku

2-1-11, Higashihayadori, Konan-ku

1-8-10, Minamisasaguchi, Chuo-ku

Tel. 025-245-5571

Banda City Area
24

BANDAI SILVER HOTEL

1-3-30, Bandai, Chuo-ku

Tel. 025-241-7777
10 HOTEL SUNROUTE NIIGATA

Tel. 025-245-3333
26 HOTEL NIKKO NIIGATA

Tel. 025-246-6161
11 DORMY INN NIIGATA

Tel. 025-240-1888

1-7-14, Akashi, Chuo-ku

37

11-14, Higashidekijima, Chuo-ku

Tel. 025-243-3711
25 ANA CROWNE PLAZA NIIGATA

1-11-25, Higashiodori, Chuo-ku

Tel. 025-229-7111

1-14-3, Sasaguchi, Chuo-ku

Tel. 025-243-1111
9 NIIGATA TERMINAL HOTEL
1-6-31, Hanazono, Chuo-ku

5-11-20, Bandai, Chuo-ku

5-1, Bandaijima, Chuo-ku

Tel. 025-382-1500
39 HOTEL BUSINESS INNNIIGATA MINAMI

3188-1, Kamedahayadori, Konan-ku

Tel. 025-381-8800
40 CHISUNINN NIIGATA CHUOU IC
14-5, Konan, Chuou-ku

Tel. 025-284-2711
HOTEL DIASMONT NIIGATA-NISHI
2517-2, Yamada, Nishi-ku

Tel. 025-230-0055

Iwamuro Onsen Area
2

KOMATSUYA S

681 Iwamuro Onsen, Nishikan-ku

HOTEL OKURA NIIGATA

Tel. 0256-82-2021
3 TAKASHIMAYA S

Tel. 025-224-6111
28 NIIGATA GRAND HOTEL

Tel. 0256-82-2001
HAMAMATSUYA S

Tel. 025-228-6111
29 HOTEL DIASMONT NIIGATA

Tel. 0256-82-5533
5 HOTEL OHASHI YAKATA-NO-YU

Tel. 025-223-1122
30 COUNTRY HOTEL NIIGATA

Tel. 0256-82-4125
6 MATSUYA

Tel. 025-229-3300
31 NIIGATA CITY HOTEL

Tel. 0120-82-5120
7 MINAMOTO

Tel. 025-224-4121
32 HOTEL CROWN HILLS NIIGATA

Tel. 0256-82-4266
8 YUMOTOYA S

Tel. 025-229-1695
33 HOTEL ITALIAKEN

Tel. 0256-82-2015
9 MENMEN-TEI-WATAYA

Tel. 025-224-5111

Tel. 0256-82-0001

Furumachi Area
27

Tel. 025-247-7755
12 SUPER HOTEL NIIGATA

6-53, Kawabatacho, Chuo-ku

678 Iwamuro Onsen, Nishikan-ku

Tel. 025-247-9000
13 HOTEL ALPHA ONE NIIGATA

3-2230, Shimookawamaedori, Chuo-ku

328 Iwamuro Onsen, Nishikan-ku

6-1099, Honchodori, Chuo-ku

340 Iwamuro Onsen, Nishikan-ku

6-1140-1, Honchodori, Chuo-ku

605 Iwamuro Onsen, Nishikan-ku

8-1430, Furumachidori, Chuo-ku

723-1 Iwamuro Onsen, Nishikan-ku

8-1429, Higashiboridori, Chuo-ku

91-1 Iwamuro Onsen, Nishikan-ku

7-1574, Nishiboridori, Chuo-ku

581 Iwamuro Onsen, Nishikan-ku

1-6-13, Akashi, Chuo-ku

1-7-18, Hanazono, Chuo-ku

Tel. 025-246-5555
14 COMFORT HOTEL NIIGATA
3-3-1, Benten, Chuo-ku

Tel. 025-242-0611
15 SINGLE INN NIIGATA 1
1-6-1, Hanazono, Chuo-ku

Tel. 025-290-7112
16 SINGLE INN NIIGATA 2
1-11-3, Higashiodori, Chuo-ku

Tel. 025-383-6613
17 SINGLE INN NIIGATA ANNEX 2
1-11-10, Higashiodori, Chuo-ku

Tel. 025-255-5351
28

2-2-23, Hanazono, Chuo-ku

Niigata

新潟

SHOPS

Let’s introduce the typical shops where Niigata souvenirs and daily necessities
can be purchased. Because there are increasing numbers of duty-free shops,
please check and get your tax free shopping.

Shop Name

Location

Tel

Items

TAX
FREE

Don Quijote Niigata Ekinan Store

Niigata Station

025-290-4333

Food, Sundries, Apparel, Brand products, Electrical appliances, etc.

TAX
FREE

BIC CAMERA Niigata Store

Niigata Station

025-248-1111

Electrical appliances, Cameras, Travel goods, Toys, Games, Liqior, etc.

TAX
FREE

Yodobashi-Camera Niigata

Niigata Station

025-249-1010

Electrical appliances, Cameras, Toys, Games, etc.

TAX
FREE

Station Shopping Center CoCoLo Niigata Honkan Niigata Station Building 025-247-6388

TAX
FREE

Meihinkan (Station Shopping Center CoCoLo
Niigata Higashi)

Niigata Station
Building

025-240-6090 Souvenirs, Sake, Foods, Marine products

TAX
FREE

Ponshukan (Station Shopping Center CoCoLo
Niigata Nishikan)

Niigata Station

025-240-7090 Sake, Sweets

TAX
FREE

ZEBIO SPORTS Expressus Store (Station Shopping
Niigata Station
Center CoCoLo Niigata Minamikan)025-240-0511

Sports Goods

TAX
FREE

Bisho-do (Station Shopping Center CoCoLo
Niigata Minamikan)

Niigata Station

025-240-0511

Cosmetics

TAX
FREE

Matsumoto Kiyoshi (Station Shopping Center
CoCoLo Niigata Higashi)

Niigata Station

025-240-0001 Medicine

TAX
FREE

Imayotsukasa Sake Brewery

Niigata Station

025-245-3231

Sake, Observation tour

TAX
FREE

Niigata Isetan

Bandai025-242-1111

Clothes, Accessories

TAX
FREE

LoveLa Bandai

Bandai025-255-0808

Fashion, Interior, Cosmetics, Books, Music, Foods, Restaurants, etc.

TAX
FREE

LoveLa Bandai 2

Bandai025-255-0808

Fashion, Cosmetics, Music, Foods, Restaurants, etc.

Can Do (LoveLa Bandai 2) (100 yen shop)

Bandai025-255-5388

Sundries, Foods

Souvenirs, Restaurants, Foods, Sundries, Clothes, Services

TAX
FREE

BANDAI-City BILLBOARD PLACE, BANDAI-City BP2 Bandai025-240-4600 Clothes¬ Sundries¬ Muvie, Culture (Tax free some stores)

TAX
FREE

Souvenir Pier Bandai

Bandaijima025-249-2560

Foods, Liquor, Flowers, Restaurants

TAX
FREE

Ito-Yokado Marudai Niigata

Furumachi

025-228-1141

Foods, Clothes, Household appliances

The Daiso (Ito-Yokado Marudai Niigata)(100 yen shop)

Furumachi

025-223-2175

Sundries, Foods

Seria (100 yen shop)

Furumachi

025-224-8858

Sundries

TAX
FREE

Matsumoto Kiyoshi Honchodori Store

Furumachi

025-210-2070

Medicine

TAX
FREE

Akacia in Niigata Airport Building

Niigata Airport

025-275-2635

Niigata Confections and Specialities, Rice, Local Beer, etc.

TAX
FREE

Aeon Niigata South Shopping Center

Konan-ku

025-383-1301

Fashions, Interiors, Sundries, Electronics, Cosmetics, Books, Food, etc.

TAX
FREE

Niigata Local Products Center, “Furusato-Mura” Nishi-ku

025-230-3030* Gifts, Foods, Fish, Vegetables, etc.

*(Appeal Hall)

Not all of stores on the list above (below) are available for Tax Free Shopping. Ask stores for detail.

TAX
FREE

Duty-free Shop Information

ATMs

A list of duty-free shops which use the duty-free emblem can be seen inside and outside the country on the
homepage of the Japan National Tourism Organization (JNTO).
JNTO Japan National Tourism Organization http://tax-freeshop.jnto.go.jp/

Currency Exchange
Daishi Bank, Tel. 0120-86-4464

Mitsubishi UFJ Bank, Niigata branchhttps://www.daishi-bank.co.jp/tenpo/
Hokuetsu Bank Tel. 0120-86-8922
https://www.hokuetsubank.co.jp/dhfg/contents/kojin/gaikaryogae/
Mizuho Bank, Niigata branch Tel. 025-229-2331
http://shop.www.mizuhobank.co.jp/b/mizuho/info/BA340693/

Tel. 025-233-5161
http://sasp.mapion.co.jp/b/bk_mufg/info/BA592400/
Yucho Bank Tel. 0120-992-504
https://www.jp-bank.japanpost.jp/en_index.html
Taiko Bank Tel. 0258-36-4111
https://www.taikobank.jp/personal/gaika-takuhai.php

You can withdraw cash using your international brand credit, debit, prepaid andcash cards nationwide at ATMs Niigatachuo Post Office and Niigatanaka Post
Office and Seven Bank. Citibank ATMs
are also in service but number of ATMs isvery limited with most of their ATMs located in major international airports andin their branch offices. Please note thatno other Japanese banks currently accept
international transactions. To find ATMs
near your destination, Visa provides an
ATM locator on their website which you
can use to locate ATMs by your nearest
subway/train station.

29

Niigata City

Transportation

As well as on foot, you can get around Niigata City by route bus, Loop bus, rent-a-cycle and taxi.
Express busses also run from Niigata Station to various places in the prefecture.

Route Bus
Niigata Kotsu Bus
Around Niigata City the “Niigata Kotsu Bus” runs
route and express busses. Many route and express
busses run from the 3 bus terminals at Niigata Station Bandai Exit (in front of Niigata station), Niigata
Station South Exit, Bandai City Bus Center.

How to Ride
Get on at either the center or rear door, get off
through the front door, and pay the fare when you
leave. You can pay with cash by taking a numberedticket when you get on, or you can use an IC cardsuch as “SUICA” or “RYUTO”.
Niigata Kotsu http://www.niigata-kotsu.co.jp/

Niigata City Loop Bus see p26
A bus which goes efficiently around tourists sites in
the Chuo-ku (ward), Niigata’s inner city. Departing
and arriving from Niigata Bandai Exit bus terminal,
there are 15 stops you can get on and off at around inner
Niigata City. A tulip shaped bus stop is it’s mark.

Loop Bus Route1 Niigata Station ▶ 2 Bandai City ▶ 3 Honcho ▶ 4 Higashibori-doriRokuban-cho ▶ 5 Hakusan Park ▶ 6 Niitsu House ▶ 7 Gokoku Shrine ▶
8 Marinepia Aquarium ▶ 9 Nishi Ohata Sakaue ▶ 10 Northern Culture
Museum Niigata Branch ▶ 11 Furumachi Kagai ▶ 12 Former Ozawa Family
Residence ▶ 13 Minatopia, the City History Museum ▶ 14 Pier Bandai ▶
15 Niigata Nippo MEDIA SHIP ▶ 16 Niigata Station

One-day
Pass

Niigata City Loop Bus
CenterToyoko inn

Unlimited bus
ride for one-day
Adults: ¥500
Children: ¥250

Limited to Niigata City Loop Bus, with abus ticket you can get on and off freely for
one day and there are discount privileges
at tourist sites and restaurants. To use thisticket, use a coin to scratch off one place ofthe silver part (if you scrape off two parts it
will be invalidated), and show it the ticket tothe bus crew when you get off.

Sales Locations: ※ Passes can also be purchased on the bus
Bus Information Center (Niigata Station/Bandai City Bus Center), City
History Museum "Minatopia," Niigata Bandaijima Art Museum, Northern
Culture Museum Niigata Branch, City Aquarium "Marinepia Nihonkai,"
Aizu Yaichi Memorial Museum, Niigata City Art Museum, Niitsu House,
The Niigata Saito Villa.
Holidays: From December 28th until January 3rd.
Art Hotel
Niigata Station

Rent-a-cycle station
A carefree way to see the sights. High quality,
stylish bikes are also available.

Rent-a- Cycle
see p26

Around Niigata’s inner city you can cheaply use arecycled bicycle with “Niigata Rent-a-Cycle,” andthere is “Smart Cruise” where for ¥1,000 24 hours
you can use a world top brand sports bicycle.
Rent-a-Cycle is available at Iwamuro Onsen in Nishikan-ku (Nishikanward), Kita-ku(North ward), Konan-ku (Konan ward), Akiha-ku (Akihaward), Nishi-ku (West ward), and Minami-ku (South ward).

30

Rent-A-Cycle 9:30~19:00 (Registration Fee ¥200.
6 hours ¥300. additional ¥100 per hour)
Available at hotels throughout the city center.
“Smart Cruise” Bicycle Rentals 9:00~21:00(Registration Fee ¥200, One day ¥1,000)
Available at:
Niigata Grand Hotel Tel. 025-228-6112
Hotel Nikko Niigata Tel. 025-240-1888
Hotel Italia-ken Tel. 025-224-5111
ANA Crowne Plaza Niigata Hotel Tel. 025-245-3333
Ishimiya Park Bicycle Parking Tel. 025-249-1480
and others
Niigata City cycle NAVI
http://www.niigata-furumachi.jp/rentc/

Niigata

Rent-a-car
Taxi

A rent-a-car is recommended for sightseeing a wider area. You canlease a rental car at Niigata Station yard and the surrounding area.
Let’s make a reservation in advance online or by telephone.

Niigata city’s taxi Service and fare
Fare from Niigata Station to the main tourist facilities
City History Museum ”Minatopia“ (about 3km)
about ¥1,100 (10-15 minutes)
The Niigata Saito Villa (about 3km)
about ¥ 1,100 (10-15 minutes)
Northern Culture Museum (about 16km)
about ¥4,700 (about 30 minutes)
Please use the time system fare in Niigata city tour
sightseeing. ¥ 2650 /30 minutes ¥ 5,300 /1 hour
Niigata City Hire Taxi Association Tel. 025-285-3613

From Niigata Airport
Orix Rent-a-Car Niigata Airport Counter Tel. 025-275-0543
Nissan Rent-a-Car Tel. 0120-00-4123
Times Car Rental Global Customer Desk Tel. 050-3786-0056 (8:00-18:45)
Nippon Rent-a-Car English Service Desk Tel. 03-6859-6234
From Niigata Station
Station Rent-a-Car East Japan Niigata Office(Niigata Station South Exit CoCoLo South Building 3F) Tel. 025-245-4292
Nippon Rent-a-Car English Service Desk Tel. 03-6859-6234
Toyota Rent-a-Car Niigata Station South Exit Branch Tel. 025-245-0100
Orix Rent-a-Car Niigata Station North Exit Branch(Niigata Station Bandai Exit) Tel. 025-255-0543

An international driving permit, a passport and a credit card are necessary at the timeof use. When it seems you will be late for the promised return time, contact the shop
by telephone. (There is an overcharge if you return it after the scheduled return time.)
When you return it, fill up the fuel tank and show the receipt for the gasoline standwhere you filled it up. If you don’t fill up the tank when you return it a fuel charge willbe established and calculated by the supplier according to the mileage.

Shinanogawa Water Shuttle

Route: Minatopia ▶ Toki Messe ▶ Bandai-bashi Nishi-

Hands free Travel

Nippon Rent-a-Car English Site
http://www.nrgroup-global.com/
en/locations.php

http://www.watershuttle.co.jp/

A water bus cruising the Shinano River, the biggest river in Japan. Navigate
between “Minatopia - Niigata City History Museum” at Shinano Riverestuary, as well as from “Toki Messe,” passing through Bandai Bridge tothe upstream “Niigata Furusato-mura” souvenir spot. From the end of
March until the end of November there is a regular “shuttle service” andsightseeing “round trip service” in operation, but during the winterseason (beginning of December to the end of March) there is only the“tour service” in operation (only getting on and off at Toki Messe).

zume ▶ Bandai City ▶ Kencho mae ▶ Furusatomura

新潟

A cruise up
the great Shinano River.
Tel. 025-227-5200
Price: One-way ¥300 -¥1,100, round trip Adult¥1,100 Child ¥550, day pass ¥1,800 (children
travel half price).

You can also load bicycles. It is ¥200 together with one
bicycle. For elementary students and under, “Niigata
Rent-a-Cycle” is ¥100 for one bicycle.

Hand luggage delivery service for tourists staying
Niigata city partners
Partner of Tsukioka Onsen Yahiko Onsen Senamionsen.

Price: ¥1,000 per item of luggage
Bandai Exit Tourist Information Center
Reception location
9:00-14:00 (Accommodations in Chuo ward, Niigata City)
Reception time
9:00 -11:00 (Accommodations other than in Chuo ward, Niigata City )Luggage will arrive at your hotel around 17:00.
You will find a list of participating hotels at the following site:

31

Sado Experience Programs
For more information and reservations see
www.enjoysado.net
High-Speed Motor Boat
Kotoura Cave Tou

Take a spin on Rikiya’s Sightseeing High-Speed Motor Boat on atour around the Ogi Peninsula, feeling the crisp sea breeze andlearn more about the scenery while exploring the Kotoura Cave,otherwise known as “The Blue Caves”.

Hike in a primeval forest(Senjusugi Route)

Take a deep breath in Sado’s finest primeval forests overflowing with intertwining moss and intriguingly-shaped trees. This
course is highly recommended to those who are experiencing
Sado’s giant cedar trees for the first time.

Make and rideon an ancient boat

Experience making “Yoshibune”, an ancient boat made of common reed grass used to cross ocean. Take a reisure cruise on
board your very own creation out on Lake Kamo.

32

Take a dive in Sado's
crystal clear waters! (Snorkeling)

Sado Island has one of the best diving spots in all of Japan.
Every year people from all over Japan gather in Sado to enjoy
diving in the crystal clear waters. Feel at ease as our friendly
diving instructors will guide you through your diving experience.
Beginners are most welcome to join!

Sea Kayak Experience

Kayak out to sea along the Ogi Peninsula, where even beginners
and children will be able to navigate and enjoy with ease. Designated as a marine park, you will be able to enjoy the ocean’s
spectrum of colors, explore naturally formed caves, and bask inthe private beach atmosphere.

Casual Fishing

Sado is known to have many frequent fishers. Come on down
and experience casual fishing with an instructor in the southernpart of the island.

S a d o

佐渡
Enjoy the Sights
on a Sailboat

Enjoy the sea breeze on a sailboat sightseeing tour for a small
group of friends or families upto 8 people.

Night CruiseNight Cruise in the southern part of the island. Enjoy the natural aquarium with fishes attracted to the lights mounted on top
the boat. Transport yourself into a magical world which can only
be experienced here at night.

Bamboo Athletic Park

Have fun in the Athletic Park with playground equipments madeof Sado Bamboo. From toys to utensil, there are endless possibilities as to what the bamboo are used for. Enjoy making yourwon Bamboo water pistols and bow & arrows with an instructor.

Squid fishing &squid breakfast

Enjoy Fishing early in the morning and tasting the freshly fishedsquid on the boat.

Horseback ridingin the mountain

Enjoy the morning fresh air while riding a hose through the forest. The view from on top the horse is a whole new experience.

The island where deities dance.
Stay on Sado and experience the festival!

Onidaiko is a traditional performing art only found on Sado thatis performed at festivals around the island to pray for safety foreach household, give thanks for the abundant harvest and catchof the previous year, and also to ward off misfortune. Come to
Sado for a unique festival experience.

33

Niigata

Niigata Experience Programs 新潟
TIPSY Pass
- Taste of Niigata “Furumachi”explorer pass TIPSY Pass is a year long promotion where you can enjoy
eating and drinking in Japanese restaurants and izakayas
in Niigata City’s Furumachi. A
historical part of the city with arich, vibrant culture which continues today. There are many
wonderful Japanese restaurants and Izakayas which have traditional
atmospheres in Niigata City’s ‘Furumachi’ area, which means ‘Old
Town’. The TIPSY Pass lets you sample unique, local gourmet dishes
and famous sake at various venues around the town. We guarantee
you will have a fantastic time and return with many good memories.
You can share one ticket book with other people!
Please check the website below.
HP http://furumachi-kagai.info/tipsy

Japanese Sake Tasting Lecture【 EDGE OF NIIGATA】

Would you like to learn the fundamentals of genuine Japanesesake in Niigata? Please, don’t
worry if you have no knowledge about Japanese sake,a Professional International
Kikisake-Shi (Meister) will kindly and carefully teach you about Japanese food, history, and culture. You can enjoy learning about delicious
Japanese sake. Freshly prepared Japanese food is also waiting for you.
We will also teach you how to order (in Japanese) at a Japanese stylepub. There’s no mistake you too will surely be called a connoisseur.
5,000 yen~(Depends on the number of participants)
HP/Booking/Inquiries https://edge-of-niigata.com/

Niigata Furumachi Geigi(Geisha)
Traditional Dance
The Niigata Furumachi Geigi(geisha) district in downtown
Niigata ranks alongside Kyoto's Gion district and Tokyo's
Shinbashi geisha area. The
geisha scene here was very
lively 200 years ago, as seafaring visitors delighted in the
lovely dances and treats of geisha society. This experience program,
held in the classical Japanese residence, allows private groups towatch the Niigata Furumachi Geigi perform traditional dances.
Please inquire for details.
Niigata Visitors & Convention Bureau TEL 025-223-8181
Email nvcb@nvcb.or.jp

Rice Cooking with Local Cuisinesat the Mansion of a greatest landowner
N i i g a ta P re fe c t u re i s t h elargest rice producing regionin Japan. The ancestor of theIto family, a historical greatest
landowner, laid the foundation
for rice farming culture. Participants can enjoy rice cooking by traditional methods, such as using hagama, or a traditional
cooking pot for rice. The rice used for this workshop is Koshihikari.
This rice is harvested in the vicinity of the museum. Local cuisines
are also served. An admission to the museum is included.
2,420 yen each person (an admission charge of the museum
included) for a group of 2 or more.
The Northern Culture Museum TEL 025-385-2001
Email ncm2006@vanilla.ocn.ne.jp

Experience making gold inlaid
Niigata laquerware
During the Edo Period (1603
to 1868), Niigata Port was oneof the ports for the marinetransportation business. Many
cultural influences, as wellas commercial goods, werebrought in from the otherregions of the country. One of those art influences was the lacquer
painting technique, which is believed to have begun 400 years ago.
This workshop provides people with an opportunity to make Niigata
Lacquer-wares. Participants can carve designs and/or patterns on
the ware, then gold powder will be applied over them.
3,300 yen each person (with an admission charge of the museum)
for a group of 10 or more. Contact if a group is less than 10.
The Northern Culture Museum TEL 025-385-2001
Email ncm2006@vanilla.ocn.ne.jp

Mochi Pounding,a Unique 150-year-old Method
One of Japan's oldest customs
and tradition is pounding mochi, or rice cake, before every
new year. The ancestor of theIto family, a historical greatest
landowner, developed the quick
production technique called
three-pounder method, which has been handed down over 150 years.
Participants can join the mochi-pounding workshop with specialists.
Fresh mochi is very delicious.
22,000 yen/1group(tax included) Max required number ofparticipants : 30 people. Contact if a group is more than 30.
Admission fee for NCM is required separately.
The Northern Culture Museum TEL 025-385-2001
Email ncm2006@vanilla.ocn.ne.jp

Making your original Kite【 Shirone Kite History Museum 】
Shirone Kite History museum is the world largest Kite museum that collect not only domestic traditional
Shirone-Kite but also foreign rare kite. In this museum, you can try making Japanese Small Kite. Experts ofmaking Kite teach kindly. It is a valuable time to enjoy the making kite.
Entrance Fee: Adults \400 yen Elementary, junior and senior high school students \200 yen
Kite Making Fee \300 yen
Shirone Kite History Museum TEL 025-372-0314

34

SADO-NIIGATA PASS

Great value pack for JR EAST PASS holders(Nagano Niigata Area)

Save Over40%!!

Adult（12 and older）

Child（6 to 11）￥5,000 ￥2,500

All included!!

Niigata City Loop Bus
One Day Pass

Niigata City Loop Buses go to various different sightseeing
locations in Niigata city center;such as the aquarium, museums etc. The pass can be used any number of times within
one day. So you can enjoy spending the day visiting theplaces that most interest you.

Return Car Ferry
Second Class Cabin Coupons
These Car Ferry Second Class Cabin Coupons are for an
outward trip to Sado Island and a return trip to Niigata
City. Each journey takes 2 hours 30 minutes. The secondclass cabin consists of either chairs or a raised floor where
you can sit or lay down. They are non-reserved seats.
Please feel free to sit wherever you like and enjoy the trip!

(Bullet train)
JoetsuShinkansen

Return Bus Pass
2 single tickets

Niigata Station to Niigata Port and return
Niigata Station (Bandai Exit) and Niigata Port (Sado
Kisen Terminal) are connected by local buses. Niigata
Station is the terminus of the Joetsu Shinkansen andNiigata Port is the gateway to Sado Island.
The pass (made up of 2 single tickets) can be used onthese bus services connecting the port and the station.
Each journey takes approximately 15 minutes.

Sado Local Bus
Three Day Pass

The pass is useful because local buses connect all the
major sightseeing spots on Sado Island.

■ The equivalent of over 8,700 yen worth of travel in one handy pack.

Save time buying regular tickets.
Benefits ■■ You can rent one of the electric bicycles available at Sado Tourism Information Centers, without having
to pay the basic charge of 500 yen for the first 2 hours. Simply show the pass at the counter.

Validity and Expiration
JR EAST PASS holders. (Except JR Rail Pass)
Valid for 10 days from the date of purchase.
Please show your JR EAST PASS when purchasing the
Sado-Niigata Pass.

Important Information● After you purchase the Sado Niigata Pass you can
use the Niigata City Loop Bus Pass, Local Bus Passbetween Niigata Station and Niigata Port, and Sado
Three Day Bus Pass. These passes work just as regular tickets on the bus services. However, Return
Car Ferry Second Class Cabin Coupons must be
exchanged for ferry tickets at the Sado Kisen Niigata
Port and Ryotsu Port ticket counters.
● Tickets cannot be refunded unless all car ferries on
the day of travel have been cancelled.
● The Niigata City Loop Bus does not operate between
December 28th and January 3rd.

Where to Buy
1 Niigata Station Bandai Exit Tourist Information Center.

1-1-1 Hanazono, Chuo-ku, Niigata City, Niigata 950-0086
Tel 025-241-7914 Office Hour 9:00am to 7:00pm
2 Sado Kisen Niigata Port Information Center.
9-1 Bandaijima, Chuo-ku, Niigata City, Niigata 950-0078
Tel 025-245-1234 Office Hour 8:00am to 6:00pm● The Sado Three Day Bus Pass is valid for 3 consecutive days starting from the first day of use.
● Some local bus routes on Sado Island may change atcertain times of the year.
● The return Car Ferry Coupon must be exchanged andused within 10 days of the outbound departure.
● The Sado Niigata Pass can only be purchased withcash in Japanese Yen.
● The fee is subject to change under certain circumstances.
For more information
https://sado-niigata.com/pass/35

With this APP you can get Wi-Fi from either Sado City or Niigata City
Niigata City

Sado City
SSID:Sado_City_
Free_Wi-Fi

Getting to

Niigata and Sado

SSID:Niigata _City_Free_Wi-Fi
Now available at the Niigata Airport, on the Airport Shuttle Bus,and wherever else you can find themark above!

Welcometo Niigata!

Niigata Airport is the foremost international gateway to Japan on
the Japan Sea, with six regular international routes to four different
countries: Shanghai and Harbin (China), and Seoul (South Korea), andTaipei(Taiwan), and Khabarovsk and Vladivostok (Russia). You can getfrom Niigata to Tokyo in one hour and forty minutes by shinkansen
or four hours by expressway.
Khabarovsk (2 hours 10 min.)
Harbin (2 hours 10 min.)SERVICE GUIDE(PDF)

Vladivostok(1 hour 30 min.)

Sapporo (1 hour 15 min.)

CONTACT

Sado City
Sado Tourism Association
Tel. 0259-27-5000
http://www.visitsado.com/en/

Niigata City
Niigata Station Bandai Exit
Tourist Information Center
Tel. 025-241-7914
Niigata Visitors & Convention Bureau
Tel. 025-223-8181
http://www.nvcb.or.jp/travelguide/en/

Seoul (2 hours)
Narita (1 hour 5 min.)Fukuoka(1 hour 40 min.)Niigata City Hall
Tourist Policy Department
Tel. 025-228-1000 (switchboard)

Nagoya Tokyo (1 hour 40 min.)

Osaka (1 hour)(1 hour 10 min.)Shanghai(2 hours 40 min.)Taipei(3 hours 10 min.)

Okinawa (2 hours 50 min.)Niigata Official Tourist Information Website http://www.nvcb.or.jp/travelguide/en/index.html
All information current as of Jan. 2020. Disclaimer: This publication is for reference only. Please visit our website for updates. Thank you.