Niigata Kreuzfahrten

OVERVIEW

Visit two museums – one devoted to kites, the other concentrating on Niigata’s history – and come away with a deeper understanding of why this area is so special. The collection at the Shirone Kite Museum numbers in the hundreds and includes some of the world’s largest and rarest kites. Most of them are brightly colored and feature illustrations of fierce samurais and folkloric characters that lend insight into the local culture. Kites are synonymous with Niigata in part because of the annual Shirone Giant Kite Battles held there. You can see past kite battles and how the kites are made by watching a video in the museum. The exhibits in the Niigata City History Museum are just as captivating, especially the ones that explain how Niigata developed around the Shinano, the longest river in Japan. You can expect to see life-size dioramas, ship models and excavated artifacts such as pottery, tools and weapons.

HIGHLIGHTS

• Browse a museum with kites so large it takes dozen of people to fly them.
• Learn how the kites are made and how they battle each other during an annual festival.
• See exhibits in the city museum that explain how Niigata evolved through the centuries.
• Gain an understanding of the critical role that water played in Niigata’s development.

HELPFUL HINTS

• Dress in weather-appropriate clothing.
• Wear flat comfortable walking shoes.

OVERVIEW

Browse a cultural museum housed in the former estate of the region’s largest landowners and enjoy a tasting of sake that has been brewed in a traditional manner for more than a century. While visiting the Northern Culture Museum, you will gain insight into eight generations of the Ito family, who made their fortune through agriculture. Following World War II, their entire estate was donated to preserve its cultural importance. As you will discover, the complex includes multiple residences furnished with rare antiques, a banquet hall, tea house and granary that can hold 3,000 bales of rice. The surrounding Niigata Prefecture is still renowned for its rice, the main ingredient in the sake produced at the DHC Brewery. While touring this landmark institution, you will learn about the production of its Japanese rice wine and sample its main brand of sake, Koshino-Bairi. It is known for its smooth, clean finish.

HIGHLIGHTS

• Visit the former estate of the region’s largest landowners, which is now a cultural museum.
• Come away with an understanding of how the local culture changed over eight generations.
• Tour a brewery that has been producing sake from local rice for more than a century.
• Sample a selection of sakes that feature different characteristics.

HELPFUL HINTS

• Dress in weather-appropriate clothing.
• Wear flat comfortable walking shoes.

Watch a delightfully entertaining geisha show at the estate of the Saito clan, one of Niigata’s most prominent merchant families in the early 20th century.

As a historical introduction to geishas, you will walk through the Furumachi district, where Niigata’s geisha houses once flourished. A traditional Japanese lunch follows, after which you will drive to the Saito estate. Set atop a natural sand dune, the residence nestles among grounds that suggest a mountain ambiance complete with waterfalls and pine groves.

Inside the elegant Saito estate, you will watch beautifully costumed geishas with elaborate hair ornaments perform Nihon buyo dances, some of which may date to the 17th century. As an accompaniment, a musician will play a three-string shamisen while another performer sings. If you would like to join in the entertainment, you might play a game of taruken with the geishas. It is much like “rock, paper, scissors,” but played to a rhythmic beat on a barrel.

OVERVIEW

See Niigata – nicknamed the “Water City” for its many rivers, canals and lakes – from two different coastal perspectives that showcase its natural beauty. The urban oasis Hakusan Park has the distinction of being one of Japan’s first public parks and is particularly impressive for its water views as it borders the Shinano River, which flows through the heart of Niigata. Within the park, you will find a large Shinto shrine from the 17th century where the goddess of marriage is worshipped. The setting is wonderfully serene, especially when the surrounding flora is in bloom. You will enjoy a sweeping 360° view of the city and beyond from the Befco Bakauke Observatory on the 31st floor of the Hotel Nikko Niigata, the highest building overlooking the Japan Sea. The large island that you will see to the west is Sado, once a place of exile for disgraced aristocrats.

HIGHLIGHTS

• Walk through Hakusan Park, which features Dutch-style water elements.
• Browse the park’s Shinto shrine, a landmark since the mid-1600s.
• Enjoy the ultimate view of Niigata from a 31-story observation deck.

HELPFUL HINTS

• Dress in weather-appropriate clothing.
• Wear flat comfortable walking shoes.

Learn more about rice than you ever thought possible, including why Niigata’s koshihikari rice is so celebrated.

In part, the rice grown in this area benefits from being irrigated by the pristine snowmelt from the Echigo Mountains. But there is more to it, as you will first discover at Imayotsukasa, a brewery established in 1767. The brewery produces 100% rice sake without any artificial ingredients, and the taste reflects that purity. You will also have the chance to sample sweet non-alcoholic rice beverages at Minemura-jozo, a storehouse for soybeans used to make miso paste through fermentation. The salty paste is a key ingredient in soups, salad dressings and marinades.

Following lunch at the North Culture Museum, which will include rice steamed in a traditional hagama pot, you will browse the museum grounds. The 19th-century villa there is particularly noteworthy as wealthy landowner Bunkichi Ito donated it after World War II, along with the rest of the museum complex.

Explore some of the most intriguing locales within the Shibata area just north of Niigata, beginning with the traditional Japanese garden Shimizu-en. The Shibata clan built the garden in the 17th-century around a large pond with a handful of teahouses along its shore. The setting is extraordinarily beautiful and serene. The city of Shibata is also known for its sake, and Gokaibishi Sake Brewery has been producing it since 1790s. As you will discover, the sake is made from Niigata’s celebrated rice and pure water from snowmelt. Then, you will stop by Suwa Shrine near Shimizu-en garden. Lastly, the remains of Shibata’s namesake castle is also well worth a look, as it has been designated an Important Cultural Property for its unusual design. The moat that surrounds the castle is in its original form, as is one of the castle gates and corner turrets.

Explore a Shinto shrine and other attractions in the foothills of Mt. Yahiko before driving to the summit to take in the extraordinary views.

Although a shrine was first established there in the 8th century, the Yahiko Shrine that stands today was constructed in 1916. Highlights include its bright vermilion torii gate and two guardian lion dogs carved by one of the great stonemasons of the Edo Period. Nearby, you will find the Teradomari Fish Market, where the bounty of the sea will be on display. It is an inspiring setting to enjoy lunch on your own and an authentic slice of life.

As you proceed up Mt. Yahiko, you will follow a winding road with outstanding views of the fertile Niigata Plains and the Sea of Japan. The vistas will be even more spectacular at the summit, where you will stand atop the rotating Panorama Tower, an aptly named lookout that offers 360-degree views of the natural beauty below.

Practice Zen meditation or zazen in a seated position much like the one Buddha adopted when he experienced his awakening. The venue for this enlightening session will be the Next 21 building, one of the tallest skyscrapers in Niigata. A Zen master will guide you through the meditation with the aim of helping you live in the moment, free from worry, judgment and analytic thought. Zazen can be transformative and positively affect your physical, mental and emotional well-being when practiced over time.

To enhance your relaxed state of mind, you will continue on to the Hakuran Shrine located within a serene park of the same name. The goddess supposedly enshrined there is said to bless couples with harmonious relationships and provide good fortune for the entire family. Nearby, you will find the former home of a merchant from the Meiji Era, which ended in 1912. Exceptionally peaceful, the residence has been designated a national cultural property.

Depart the pier for an approximately one hour drive to the Tsubame-Sanjo area which is famous for their metalcrafts.

Tsubame-Sanjo, Tsubame City Industrial History Museum

The area was developed during the Edo Period for producing Wakugi (Japanese nail) and processing technology. Today their products such as cutting tools and metal tableware are becoming popular with their ancient tradition. Your first stop will be the Tsubame City Industrial History Museum which offers an insight in the industry. It is important to learn about the history of tradition and artisanal skills to understand how this metalworking industry has developed.

Tojiro Open Factory, Japanese Lunch

Next it is on to Tojiro Open Factory which was opened 50 years ago for knife manufacturing. During the visit to this open factory, you will be able to see the history and techniques of Tojiro and further understand why Japanese knives are world-renowned. Experience the sound and passion of the factory and craftsmen. Enjoy lunch at a local Japanese restaurant.

Sake Brewery & Tasting

After lunch, re-board your coach for a visit to a local Sake Brewery. Sake is the national beverage of Japan and is sometimes referred to as 'Japanese Rice Wine'. Niigata Prefecture is home to more than 90 Sake Breweries and is famous for its high quality. This is therefore the ideal place to not only learn the process of sake making but also how to pair Sake with different foods. You will also have the opportunity to taste a wide variety of fresh sake and also make purchases of your favorite if you so desire.

Re-board your coach for an approximatley 50 minute drive back to the port.

Depart the pier for an approximately 45 minute drive to the northern section of Niigata Prefecture where the historical city of Shibata is located.

Shibata Castle Ruins Park

Your first stop will be made at Shibata Castle Ruins Park, selected as one of Japan's top 100 castles. This castle was originally built at the end of the 16^th century by a Feudal Lord. The main gate and Ninomaru Sumi Yagura (watch tower) have been designated as Important Cultural Properties of Japan.

Shimizuen Garden & Ashigaru Nagaya

A short drive from the castle is the Shimizuen Garden which was constructed in the late 17^th century and has been a symbol of the Echigo area as a 'Daimyo' garden. You will also see the lodgings for common foot soldiers "Ashigaru Nagaya" which has also been declared as an Important Cultural Property. This house is kept in good condition and shows the lifestyle of the Ashigaru during the Edo Period.

Sake Brewery with tasting

Lastly, you will visit a local Sake Brewery. Sake is the national beverage of Japan and is sometimes referred to as 'Japanese Rice Wine'. Niigata Prefecture is home to more than 90 Sake Breweries and is famous for its high quality. This is therefore the ideal place to not only learn the process of sake making but also how to pair Sake with different foods. You will also have the opportunity to taste a wide variety of fresh sake and also make purchases of your favorite if you so desire.

Re-board your coach for an approximatley 40 minute drive back to the port.

Niigata Prefecture is famous for Brewage due to the rich environment in the heart of Japan's most fertile rice belt and this tour will take you to two different type of breweries to learn and experience the deep culture which the local people grew up with.

Yamada Miso Brewery, Miso Tasting

Your first stop will be at Yamada Miso Brewery, after an approximatley 40 minute drive. The Yamada family has been making Miso & Japanese Soy Sauce since 1891. They are specialized in making premium quality products using local ingredients and traditional techniques continuously for over almost 130 years. In addition to get to understand the  brewing process, learn the key role these staples play in Japanese cuisine. Enjoy the opportunity to taste various types of each product.

DHC Sake Brewery, Sake Tasting

Next, re-board your coach for a short transfer to DHC Sake Brewery. Sake is the national beverage of Japan and is sometimes referred to as 'Japanese Rice Wine'. Niigata Prefecture is home to more than 90 Sake Breweries and is famous for its high quality. DHC Brewery is a renowned sake brewery located in Niigata, Japan. DHC took over the Oguro Sake Brewery in 2014, which was founded in the Meiji era, and has produced brands such as Koshino Umesato, Yuuten, Kasan, and Asahiharu. Also, it is known for producing high-quality sake. At DHC Sake Brewery, a traditional brewing methods and locally sourced ingredients are used to ensure the best taste and quality. This is therefore the ideal place to not only learn the process of sake making but also how to pair Sake with different foods. Take the opportunity to taste a wide variety of fresh sake and also make purchases of your favorite if you so desire.

Re-board your coach for the an approximatley 40 minute drive back to the port.

Depart the pier for a short drive to the Shimomachi Area which tells the history of the Port Town of Niigata.

Niigata, Shimomachi Area, Former Niigata Customs House

During Edo and Meiji period, Niigata was developed as one of the biggest ports along the Sea of Japan with Kitamae-Bune (merchant ships) making it the economic artery connecting Osaka and Hokkaido. A short photo-stop will be made at the Former Niigata Customs House which is designated a Nationally Important Cultural Property due to its unique style. Opened in 1869, the building was built by local carpenters incorporating elements of western architecture using Japanese techniques and craftmanship.

Niigata City History Museum, Hakusan Park

Following the photo-stop, continue to the nearby Niigata City History Museum to learn in-depth about the culture and history of Niigata. The museum houses numerous dioramas reflecting irrigation canals, rice growing techniques and also a model of the Bandai Bridge. Leaving the museum, a short transfer takes you to the Hakusan Park. Opened to the public in 1873, this is one of Japan's oldest parks and was selected as one of the '100 Best Japanese City Parks'.

Geisha Performance, Former Wealthy Merchant House

After a short stroll around Hakusan Park, you will have a chance to enjoy a Geisha performance at one of the former rich merchant houses. The Geisha culture grew exponentially as the number of rich merchants increased in Niigata. Today, you will be entertained similarly to the merchants of olden times.

Return to the pier thereafter.

Northern Culture Museum

Departing the pier, enjoy an approxiamtely 35 minutes scenic drive to the Northern Culture Museum. This was the former residence of the Ito Family dating back to the Edo Period. The buildings cover 29,200m² and have a total of 65 rooms. Visitors have the opportunity to experience beautiful antiques from Japan, China & Korea such as ceramic, lacquerware & calligraphy from a by-gone era. The "walking" garden is also well-known as it was designed by a famous gardener. Seeing the peaceful garden from the inside is a must-do!

Sake Brewery & Sake Tasting

Proceed to visit a local Sake Brewery. Sake is the national beverage of Japan and is sometimes referred to as 'Japanese Rice Wine'. Niigata Prefecture is home to more than 90 Sake Breweries and is famous for its high quality. This is therefore the ideal place to not only learn the process of sake making but also how to pair Sake with different foods. You will also have the opportunity to taste a wide variety of fresh sake and also make purchases of your favorite if you so desire.

Re-board your coach for the short transfer back to the port.

Enjoy an overview of some of Niigata City's iconic sights during this half-day shore excursion.

Northern Culture Museum

Depart the pier for an approximately 35 minute scenic drive across the city to the Northern Culture Museum. Once the former residence of the wealthy Ito farming Family dating back to the Edo Period, it was converted to a museum post WWII. The buildings cover 29,200m² with 65 rooms housing over 6,000 antiques from over 200 years ago. You will have the opportunity to experience beautiful antiques from Japan, China & Korea such as ceramics, lacquerware & calligraphy from this by-gone era. The "walking" garden is also well-known as it was designed by a famous gardener. The peaceful garden is a must-do in Niigata!

Minatopia

Next is a visit to Minatopia, a historical cultural zone dotted with Western-style architecture created using Japanese building expertise. Contained here are some buildings which played an integral role when Japan opened up to the West at the end of the Edo Period. The buildings include - Niigata City Museum, the former Daiishi Bank & the former Customs Office which has been designated a National Important Cultural Property. Enjoy a guided outside visit to appreciate the famed architectural style including photo opportunities.

Befco Bakauke Observatory, Niigata Views

It is then on to the Befco Bakauke Observatory for a 360 degree bird's eye-view of Niigata City and the Shinano River. Located 125m from ground atop the Hotel Nikko Niigata, this observatory tis the highest point on the Sea of Japan side of the country. Enjoy the breath-taking views including the Bandai Bridge the symbol of the city before heading back to the port.

Depart from the pier for an approximately one hour drive to Murakami town also known as “The City of Salmon”.

Murakami town-The City of Salmon, Kikkawa-dried salmon culinary tradition

The area has been catching and processing Salmon for centuries. Visit Kikkawa, one of the oldest shops in the region which still prepares 'wind-dried salmon' the traditional way. In their back room, you will see hundreds of salmon hung from the wooden ceiling as the process is explained.

Black Fence Street, Samurai Residence, Machiya Houses and temples, Oshagiri

The tour continues to Black Fence Street where you can find Samurai Residences, Machiya Houses and temples. Enjoy the ambiance of this ancient Castle Town during a guided walk within the historical walls. Enjoy a short stop at Oshagiri Hall to see the gorgeous floats called “Oshagiri” which are used for the “Murakami Taisai Festival each July.

Japanese Lunch, Shibata Castle Ruins Park

A short transfer takes us to a local restaurant for a traditional Japanese lunch. After lunch, depart for the Shibata Castle Ruins Park, selected as one of Japan's top 100 castles. This castle was originally built at the end of the 16^th century by a Feudal Lord. The main gate and Ninomaru Sumi Yagura (watch tower) have been designated as Important Cultural Properties of Japan.

Shimizuen Garden, Ashigaru Nagaya

A short drive from the castle is the Shimizuen Garden which was constructed in the late 17^th century and has been a symbol of the Echigo area as a 'Daimyo' garden. You will also see the lodgings for common foot soldiers “Ashigaru Nagaya” which has also been declared as an Important Cultural Property. This house is kept in good condition and shows the lifestyle of the Ashigaru during the Edo Period.

Re-board your coach for an approximatley 50 minute drive back to the port.

Explore Niigata at your leisure during your full-day (8-hour) sightseeing tour via private car. Customise your own itinerary or choose to see an overview of the area's highlights.

Depart the pier with your driver and English-speaking guide in an air-conditioned car and discover the city and surrounding areas at your own pace. Your exclusive tour concludes back at the pier.

Explore Niigata at your leisure during your half-day (4-hour) sightseeing tour via private car. Customise your own itinerary or choose to see an overview of the area's highlights.

Depart the pier with your driver and English-speaking guide in an air-conditioned car and discover the city and surrounding areas at your own pace. Your exclusive tour concludes back at the pier.

Explore Niigata at your leisure during your full-day (8-hour) sightseeing tour via private van. Customise your own itinerary or choose to see an overview of the area's highlights.

Depart the pier with your driver and English-speaking guide in an air-conditioned van and discover the city and surrounding areas at your own pace. Your exclusive tour concludes back at the pier.

Explore Niigata at your leisure during your half-day (4-hour) sightseeing tour via private van. Customise your own itinerary or choose to see an overview of the area's highlights.

Depart the pier with your driver and English-speaking guide in an air-conditioned van and discover the city and surrounding areas at your own pace. Your exclusive tour concludes back at the pier.