6 hours
Daily Tour
Unlimited
English/Other language upon request
Tour Route: Niigata Port ➝ Iwamuro Onsen ➝ Japanese Lunch ➝ Yahiko Shrine ➝ Shirone Kite Museum ➝ Niigata Port
Embark on a gentle, enriching journey through Niigata’s serene countryside. This full-day Niigata shore excursion invites cruise passengers to unwind in the famed healing waters of Iwamuro Onsen, delve into the sacred past at Yahiko Shrine, and discover the soaring traditions of Shirone Kite Museum. From sacred cedar forests to the playful dance of giant kites, every moment is curated for rejuvenation and wonder.
This tour is crafted for:
Mature or senior travelers seeking a relaxed pace
Cruise passengers with limited time but great cultural curiosity
Wellness enthusiasts
Photography and nature lovers
Small groups or private tours
Special Instructions
Don’t forget a small towel for the onsen experience
Modest clothing recommended for shrine visit
The tour involves light walking on flat terrain
Private and customizable upon request
Begin your journey with a 45-minute scenic ride from Niigata Port through landscapes of rice paddies, sea breeze, and mountain silhouettes. Arrive at Iwamuro Onsen, a tranquil town with a 300-year history of healing. Legends say wounded birds once healed here, and today visitors soak in mineral-rich waters believed to help with neuralgia, fatigue, and back pain. Depending on the spring’s source, the water may appear green, black, or even red. Relax in a traditional bathhouse and feel your energy gently restored.
Following your soak, indulge in a multi-course Japanese lunch at a local ryotei or inn. Enjoy delicacies made with regional ingredients—Niigata rice, miso soup, fresh sashimi, and seasonal vegetables. A slow, satisfying meal to match the gentle pace of the day.
At the foot of majestic Mt. Yahiko lies Yahiko Shrine, a Shinto sanctuary over 2,400 years old. Dedicated to the deity who brought fishing and farming to the region, this serene shrine is home to ancient swords, calligraphy, and the soaring 27-meter red torii gate, a symbol of power and purity. Don’t miss the Tama-no-Hashi Bridge, a sacred red bridge surrounded by mossy stones and towering 400-year-old cedar trees.
Conclude your excursion at the whimsical and educational Shirone Kite Museum. Here, discover the fascinating history of kite-making in Niigata, view traditional and 3D kites, and learn about the Shirone Kite Battle, where colossal 22-foot-long kites engage in tug-of-war across the Nakanokuchi River. A place where folklore, engineering, and artistry take flight.
Yes, this tour is designed with comfort in mind. All sites are easily accessible, and walking is limited and flat. For those with limited mobility, vehicle drop-offs are arranged as close to the entrance as possible. Please let us know if a wheelchair or assistance is needed in advance.
Just bring a small towel and wear comfortable, modest clothing. Onsen facilities provide larger bath towels, toiletries, and changing rooms. Swimsuits are not worn in traditional onsen—bathing is done separately by gender and in the nude, though privacy and etiquette are strictly maintained.
Iwamuro Onsen: ~90 minutes (including bathing and relaxation)
Lunch: ~60 minutes
Yahiko Shrine: ~60 minutes
Shirone Kite Museum: ~45 minutes
This timing ensures a smooth return to port with buffer time built in.
Yes! We offer full customization whether you'd like more time at the onsen, a cultural workshop, or a tea ceremony in Yahiko. Contact us with your preferences and we’ll create a bespoke experience just for you.
Member Since 2025
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