This full-day tour explores the scenery and craft traditions around Niigata with an English-speaking guide, available by public transport or private vehicle, meeting at Niigata Station.

Begin at Yahiko Shrine, one of Niigata's most sacred sites, where a peaceful cedar forest leads to a main shrine with more than 2,400 years of history.

Then continue nearby to the 634-meter summit of Mt. Yahiko for panoramic views over the Sea of Japan, Sado Island, and the surrounding rice fields on a clear day.

With a private vehicle, the day continues further afield to the Sakana no Ichibadori fish market in Nagaoka for fresh seafood and grilled skewers.

From there, head to Tsubame-Sanjo, renowned for its metal craftsmanship, where the Regional Industries Center offers high-quality Japanese knives, cutlery, and kitchenware.

Given the greater distances to these two towns, the public-transport version instead keeps to a closer loop around Yahiko Shrine and Mt. Yahiko.

Lunch can be arranged along the way at your own expense, and the itinerary can be adjusted within the tour's allotted time to suit your interests.