Things to do in Niigata

Activities, attractions and tours

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Sunrise from sea of clouds and rice terraces, Hoshitouge, Niigata, Japan
Koi ponds in the mountains of Niigata, Japan
The garden of a 130 year old Ito Mansion.
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What to do in Niigata

Popular places to visit

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Denka Big Swan Stadium

Catch an event at Denka Big Swan Stadium during your trip to Niigata. Take in the museums and hot springs in the area.

Denka Big Swan Stadium
Bandai bridge and Cherry blossoms in Niigata, Japan; Shutterstock ID 254773054; purchase_order: SF 06557000; job: ; client: ; other:

Bandai Bridge

Bandai Bridge is just one of the places to see in Niigata, so why not enjoy the other things to explore during your travels? Amble around the area's riverfront or experience its museums.

Bandai Bridge
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Hard Off Eco Stadium Niigata

Catch an event at Hard Off Eco Stadium Niigata during your trip to Niigata. Stroll along the riverfront or discover the area's hot springs.

Hard Off Eco Stadium Niigata
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Niigata City History Museum

You can study the exhibits at Niigata City History Museum, a museum with a storied past, during your trip to Niigata. Wander the riverfront or discover the area's hot springs.

Niigata City History Museum
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Niigata Furusato Village

You can search for that perfect souvenir at Niigata Furusato Village during your stay in Niigata. Take in the entertainment venues and hot springs in the area.

Niigata Furusato Village
Cherry blossoms at the Hakusan Park in the city of Niigata, Japan; Shutterstock ID 254775316; purchase_order: SF 06557000; job: ; client: ; other:

Hakusan Park

Explore the great outdoors at Hakusan Park, a lovely green space in Niigata. Take in the museums and hot springs in the area.

Hakusan Park
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Hakusan Shrine

You can learn about the history of Niigata with a stop at Hakusan Shrine. Stroll along the riverfront or experience the area's museums.

Hakusan Shrine

Toki Messe

Learn about the events happening at Toki Messe during your trip to Niigata. Wander the riverfront or discover the area's hot springs.

Toki Messe

Niigata University Igarashi Campus

Enjoy the collegiate vibe at Niigata University Igarashi Campus during your visit to Niigata.

Niigata University Igarashi Campus

Areas of Niigata

Bandai Bridge

Chuo Ward

If you're spending some time in Chuo Ward, The Niigata Bandaijima Art Museum and Toyanogata Park are top sights worth seeing.

Chuo Ward
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Nishi Ward

If you're spending some time in Nishi Ward, Niigata Furusato Village and Herb Land Season are top sights worth seeing.

Nishi Ward
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Konan Ward

Though Konan Ward might not have many top sights, you can venture to the surrounding area to see attractions like Hard Off Eco Stadium Niigata and Denka Big Swan Stadium.

Konan Ward
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Higashi Ward

While there might not be top attractions in Higashi Ward, you can explore the larger area and discover places like Niigata City History Museum and Niigata City Performing Arts Center.

Higashi Ward
[新潟県] 弥彦山からの眺め。ここから40km先ある佐渡島が見えるんですが、朝もやでしょうか、少しガスが出ているためはっきりとは見えませんね。

Nishikan Ward

If you're spending some time in Nishikan Ward, Cave D'occi Winery and Sawa House of Shogun are top sights worth seeing.

Nishikan Ward
矢代田駅の東口側駅舎

Akiha Ward

If you're spending some time in Akiha Ward, Niitsu Art Museum and Niigata Prefectural Botanical Garden are top sights worth seeing.

Akiha Ward

Frequently asked questions

Is Niigata worth visiting?
Niigata has an interesting mix of local charm, attractions and culture. Whether you're into outdoor activities, history or traditional food, there are many things you'll enjoy here.
How do I spend a day in Niigata?
Start your adventures with a visit to Niigata City Aquarium and Niigata City History Museum. Then, check out other parts of Niigata for local restaurants and a little retail therapy.
What is the top tourist attraction in Niigata?
Don't go home without checking out Niigata City Aquarium, rated the top tourist attraction in Niigata.
Is three days enough to stay in Niigata?
Three days in Niigata is enough to enjoy the city's main highlights. Many guests stay for two days on average. Niigata City Aquarium, Niigata City History Museum and Niigata City Art Museum are top-rated sights. Want to discover more? Stick around a little longer to visit nearby hotspots such as Tsubame.
Is Niigata a walkable city?
That depends on what you want to do and see in Niigata. Several attractions, such as Niigata City Aquarium, are reachable on foot. If you feel like a stroll through one of Niigata's vibrant neighborhoods, Chuo Ward is 3 kilometers away from downtown.
What are some activities to do in Niigata with kids?
Deciding what to do in Niigata with kids has never been so simple. Whether you're getting away with teenagers or toddlers, there's no shortage of family-friendly tours and attractions to keep them busy here.

What to do in Niigata for adults?
Museum of Medicine and Dentistry and Niigtata Rice Cracker Museum are just two of the things to do in Niigata. With plenty of activities available, there's something here for everyone to explore.
Are there free things to do in Niigata?
In Niigata, Niigata Furusato Village is a top spot for anyone wishing to tour the city without reaching for their wallet. Also, stroll around the green spaces and other neighborhoods, and ask a local tour guide for recommendations. It's a top way to find out about the best free things to do in Niigata.

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