Goto Shrine, Takada Castle, Gem Museum, Fish Market & Coast
Discover Niigata: Takada Castle, Gem Museum & Oyashirazu Coast
Why Take This Niigata Shore Excursion?
Niigata Prefecture, stretching along the Sea of Japan, is a destination of rich history, cultural landmarks, and striking natural scenery. This excursion brings together the best of coastal Niigata in a single day:
- Discover the quiet spirituality of Goto Shrine, one of Joetsu’s historic Shinto shrines, deeply tied to local traditions.
- Explore Takada Castle Park, home to seasonal beauty and the reconstructed Triple Turret, where samurai history and peaceful landscapes come together.
- Marvel at the natural wonders inside the Fossa Magna Gem Museum, where geological treasures and sparkling crystals reveal Niigata’s deep earth story.
- *Taste the freshest seafood at Nou Fish Market, a lively stop where local fishermen sell their daily catch.
- * Conclude at the dramatic Oyashirazu Coast, where towering cliffs plunge into the Sea of Japan, a legendary stretch of shoreline that once challenged travelers of old.
- Step inside this innovative sake experience center where traditional brewing meets modern digital art.
This tour balances history, culture, food, and natural beauty, making Niigata one of Japan’s most rewarding off-the-beaten-path shore destinations.
*Those two places may not be suitable for larger groups or guests with limited mobility due to the port’s time restrictions.
Sample Itinerary A: Niigata Shore Excursion
Niigata Shore Tour — History, Seafood & Scenic Coastlines
09:00 – Pickup at Niigata Port / Joetsu area
Meet your driver and guide; introduction to Niigata’s coastal charm.
09:30 – 10:15 – Goto Shrine (五智居多神社)
A peaceful Shinto shrine nestled in Joetsu, dedicated to protective deities. Walk through torii gates, explore the grounds, and learn about its connection to regional history.
10:30 – 11:30 – Takada Castle Park & Triple Turret (高田城公園・三重櫓)
Stroll through the expansive castle park, once home to a powerful Edo-era domain. Visit the reconstructed three-story turret, which serves as a small museum with samurai exhibits and panoramic views of the moat and gardens.
12:00 – 13:00 – Lunch & Visit at Nou Fish Market (能生漁市)
Taste freshly caught seafood such as crab, sashimi, and grilled specialties at the bustling coastal market. Browse stalls selling local products.
*This place may not be suitable for larger groups or guests with limited mobility due to the port’s time restrictions.
13:30 – 14:30 – Fossa Magna Niigata Gem Museum (新潟宝石博物館)
Dive into the geological heart of Japan. See sparkling gems, crystals, and unique rocks from the tectonic zone that runs through Niigata. Perfect for both science and nature lovers.
15:00 – 16:00 – Oyashirazu Coast (親不知海岸)
Stand atop dramatic cliffs overlooking the Sea of Japan. Learn the legends of this treacherous historical route once feared by travelers, and enjoy breathtaking ocean views.
*This place may not be suitable for larger groups or guests with limited mobility due to the port’s time restrictions.
16:30 – 17:00 – Return to Port
Relax on the drive back, arriving with time to re-board your cruise ship.
Sample Itinerary B: Niigata Shore Excursion
Historic Estates, Castle Landscapes & Immersive Sake Experience
(08:00 Arr.) → Niigata Port East/West Terminal (09:30)
Disembark and meet your driver/guide before beginning your cultural journey through Niigata and Shibata.
→ 40 min → Northern Culture Museum (10:10–11:10)
Explore the former Ito Family estate, one of Niigata’s grandest traditional residences.
Wander through tatami-lined halls, serene Japanese gardens, and historical exhibits showcasing the life of wealthy Edo-period landowners.
→ 40 min → Niigata Furusato Village Roadside Station (12:00–13:10)
Enjoy free time for lunch, shopping, and cultural browsing at this large complex featuring:
- Regional food courts
- Local crafts and produce
- Specialty Niigata souvenirs
A convenient and relaxing stop ideal for groups of all sizes.
→ 50 min → Shibata Castle Ruins (14:00–15:00)
Visit the historic site of Shibata Castle, known for its picturesque gates, stone walls, and reconstructed structures.
Learn about the Shibata Clan and enjoy spacious castle-park scenery perfect for photos and gentle walking.
→ 10 min → GOKAIBISHI – Sake Brewery Projection Mapping & Kagami-biraki Experience (15:10–16:00)
Step inside this innovative sake experience center where traditional brewing meets modern digital art.
Highlights include:
- Projection mapping showcasing Niigata’s sake culture
- A kagami-biraki barrel-opening demonstration
- Optional sake tastings for adults
A unique, engaging activity suitable for both cultural enthusiasts and first-time sake visitors.
→ 1 hour → Return to Niigata Port (17:00 arrival / 18:00 departure)
Arrive back at your cruise terminal with ample time to board the ship.