Welcome to Niigata, a charming port city on the Sea of Japan, offering a unique and authentic Japanese experience.
Often visited by premier cruise lines like Princess Cruises, Holland America Line, and MSC Cruises, Niigata serves as the gateway to Japan's famed rice and sake country.
Cruise passengers are drawn to its rich culinary traditions, beautiful natural scenery, and a more relaxed atmosphere compared to Japan's larger Pacific coast ports.
A must-visit is the Imayo Tsukasa Sake Brewery, where you can take a tour to learn about the brewing process of Niigata's most famous product and enjoy a tasting session.
For a taste of local life and cuisine, head to the Pia Bandai waterfront market, which offers an incredible array of fresh seafood, local produce, and food stalls just a short taxi ride from the port.
Explore the city's history at the serene Hakusan Shrine, an important cultural site with beautiful grounds perfect for a peaceful stroll.
Another key landmark is the six-arched Bandai Bridge, a symbol of the city that is beautiful to walk across for views of the Shinano River.
Last updated on June 29, 2025
One of the most popular day trips is to Sado Island, a large island in the Sea of Japan accessible by a 65-minute jetfoil ride from Niigata Port.
The island is famous for its historic gold mines, the iconic 'tarai-bune' (tub boats), and as the home of the world-renowned Kodo taiko drumming troupe.
Alternatively, the hot spring town of Yahiko is about an hour away by train, offering the beautiful Yahiko Shrine and panoramic views from a ropeway up Mt. Yahiko.
Last updated on June 29, 2025
Cruise ships dock at Niigata West Port, which is located about 5 kilometers (3 miles) from the main city center and Niigata Station.
Due to the distance, it is not considered walkable, and passengers will need transportation like a taxi or a cruise line-provided shuttle to reach the primary tourist areas.
The port terminal itself has limited amenities, so most dining and shopping will be found within the city proper.
Ships dock directly at the pier, so tendering is not required.
Last updated on June 29, 2025
The local currency is the Japanese Yen (JPY).
While major hotels and department stores accept credit cards, many smaller shops, local restaurants, and taxis are cash-only, so it is essential to carry some Yen.
ATMs that accept foreign cards are widely available at post offices and convenience stores like 7-Eleven.
US Dollars and other foreign currencies are generally not accepted for direct transactions.
Last updated on June 29, 2025
Japan is known for being one of the safest countries in the world, and Niigata is no exception, with extremely low crime rates.
Travelers can feel very secure exploring the city independently, even at night.
As with any travel, it's wise to use common sense and keep an eye on your belongings in crowded areas.
Japan is located in a seismically active zone, so it's a good practice to be aware of basic earthquake safety protocols, though major events are infrequent.
Last updated on June 29, 2025
The main cruise season for Niigata is in the spring (April-May) and autumn (September-October), which offer the most pleasant weather.
Spring is mild with the iconic cherry blossoms, while autumn brings comfortable temperatures and clear skies.
Summers (June-August) are typically hot and humid with higher chances of rain.
Winters are cold, and Niigata is famous for its heavy snowfall, earning it a place in Japan's 'snow country'.
Packing layers is always recommended to adjust to the day's conditions.
Last updated on June 29, 2025
Taxis are readily available at the cruise port terminal and are the most convenient way to get to the city center.
For tourists, the Niigata City Loop Bus is an excellent option, as its route covers many major attractions, including Niigata Station, the Bandai Bridge, and the Furumachi district.
Japan's excellent JR train network is accessible from Niigata Station for those venturing to nearby towns.
While ride-sharing apps exist in Japan, they are not as common or economical as in other countries, with taxis remaining the primary choice.
Last updated on June 29, 2025
The Bandai City area is Niigata's modern shopping hub, featuring department stores, fashion boutiques, and restaurants.
For a more traditional experience, explore the Furumachi district's covered shopping arcades.
Look for local specialties such as premium sake from local breweries, 'koshihikari' rice, 'sasadango' (mugwort-flavored rice cakes), and beautifully crafted metalware from the nearby Tsubame-Sanjo region.
Prices in Japan are fixed, and haggling is not part of the culture.
Last updated on June 29, 2025
Please select your must
Design your perfect day in Niigata with a customizable city tour focusing on its rich culture. You can choose to visit a famous sake brewery for a tasting of the region's best rice wine, explore the bustling Pia Bandai waterfront market, or witness the elegant world of geigi entertainers.
Sado Island
A high-speed ferry can take you to historic Sado Island for a memorable adventure. Explore the preserved tunnels of a centuries-old gold mine, and then enjoy a unique ride in a traditional tarai-bune tub boat paddled along the scenic coast.
At the blacksmithing shop
Journey to the nearby Tsubame-Sanjo region, an area renowned for its master craftsmen and metalworking traditions. Watch artisans forge world-class knives and cutlery using centuries-old techniques, and browse the workshops for an authentic, high-quality souvenir.
Learn from experienced, international instructors who love sharing their passion for snow sports. Enjoy fun in the snow amidst the stunning Japanese mountains. This experience offers fresh air and amazing views for a memorable day.
At a blacksmith shop with a 150-year history, you will craft your very own frying pan from a piece of iron plate. Enjoy an exceptional BBQ with your handmade creation, a one-of-a-kind souvenir you can use for a lifetime. The tour also includes a guided bicycle tour through the streets of Tsubame-Sanjo to see local spots and meet residents.
Begin your day with an early start to see the famous Snow Monkeys relaxing in their natural hot springs with fewer crowds. Afterwards, journey to the historic Shibu Onsen village, once frequented by Samurai, for a guided walking tour. You'll visit a sake and beer brewery established in 1805 and have the option to relax in a traditional onsen.
Join experienced, international instructors who have perfected their teaching and love sharing their passion for snow sports. Have fun in the snow while taking in the fresh air and amazing views of the Japanese mountains. This is an incredible opportunity to enjoy the winter landscape.
Savor freshly prepared Japanese food perfectly paired with rich, flavorful sake. Learn about the intricate sake-making process, its cultural significance, and how to classify its four distinct fragrances. You will also discover which dishes pair best with different sakes and even learn how to order in Japanese.
Explore Niigata, one of Japan's leading centers of food culture, on a walking tour through its charming old port town. Immerse yourself in history as you stroll through the Furumachi district, once as renowned for its Geisha as Kyoto's Gion. Your local guide will help you interact with residents, recommend restaurants, and help you order delicious food and local sake.
Visit the world-famous Snow Monkeys of Jigokudani as they relax in the steam of their valley home, an experience that is safe for all ages. Afterwards, get an exclusive look into the historic onsen village of Shibu, once frequented by samurai and poets. Stroll the narrow streets lined with traditional buildings or choose to take a relaxing bath in a local onsen for a small fee.
Begin with a visit to the famous Snow Monkey Park to watch wild macaques enjoying a soak in their mountain hot springs. Next, head to the historic Shibu Onsen town for a delicious lunch of freshly made soba noodles and other regional specialties. After your meal, you’ll have time to unwind in one of the town's public baths, whose mineral-rich waters are said to have healing properties.
Discover the ancient history of Japanese sake, which dates back to at least 700 AD and was once believed to connect individuals to the divine. For nearly a millennium, sake was produced by shrines and temples, and it remains a primary offering to Shinto gods today. You'll become part of this rich tradition by tasting the deliciousness of Niigata sake within the serene ambiance of a Shinto shrine.
Explore Sado Island, one of Japan’s best off-the-beaten-path destinations, on a value-packed trip with a private vehicle and government-licensed guide. Known as the “island of exile” and the “island of gold,” this destination is deeply connected with historical figures and ancient culture. Customize your own itinerary by selecting your must-see spots from a provided list for an efficient and fantastic day.
Designed for cruise ship travelers, this tour includes pickup at Niigata Port for a customized six-hour exploration of the city. As one of Japan's leading agricultural centers, Niigata is renowned for its beautiful rice field landscapes, rice heritage, and famous sake. Let your government-licensed guide know what you'd like to experience, and they will create the perfect tour for you.
Journey deep into the hidden region of Akiyamago, a remote mountain valley rich in natural beauty and cultural heritage. You'll soak in one of Nagano's wildest open-air hot springs, where healing waters bubble up directly from the riverbed. The tour also includes a taste of tradition with a hearty bear meat hot pot lunch and a stop at a local sake brewery for tastings.
Discover the world of the Oiran, the highly educated trend-setters of Japanese fashion who were popular even before the Geisha. In Niigata, you can visit the Honcho area to experience all the splendor of their traditional style. Allow yourself to explore your inner beauty through the transforming experience of expertly selected dress and make-up.
Explore Niigata on a fantastic and efficient tour with a government-licensed, multilingual guide. Facing the Sea of Japan, this beautiful city is a leading agricultural powerhouse known for its stunning rice fields and famous sake. Simply let your guide know what you would like to experience, and they will customize a six-hour tour that's best for you.
Step back in time to the 1800s, when Niigata thrived as a bustling port city trading with ships from around the world. The influence of international sailors created a unique blend of cultures that can still be seen today. Join a historical walking tour to explore the unique harmony of Western and Japanese styles that developed in this old port town.
Take an afternoon to explore Niigata Island, starting with a stroll along former canals as you learn the history of the Port Town. Next, you'll taste delicious local fish while learning to make your very own sushi. Conclude your tour by enjoying the harmony of delicate local appetizers and delicious Niigata Sake.
Go cycling on a high-performance e-Bike through the streets of a manufacturing town, visiting local workshops usually closed to the public. A local guide will lead you to historical spots where you can witness the dedication and craftsmanship of artisans up close. As a unique souvenir of your experience, you will receive a tiny-sized machete as a gift from a craftsman.
Join a six-hour tour that includes a visit to Tojiro, one of Japan's best knife makers, for a factory tour and fruit knife crafting experience. With guidance from a craftsman, you will polish a blade and assemble the handle to create a knife you can take home. A licensed guide will accompany you, providing translation and leading a customized walking tour of 1-2 additional spots you select.
Discover the artisan metalsmiths town of Tsubame-Sanjo, where blacksmithing was introduced in the 17th century to produce Japanese nails. On this tour, you will visit factories with long histories, such as the Tadafusa knife factory and the Gyokusendo coppenwear factory. You will get to see the artisans' work up close and can visit other factories, museums, or shopping spots.
Explore the highlights of Yahiko Village, starting with the serene, 1,000-year-old Zelkova tree at Kamisuwa Shrine. Visit the main Yahiko Shrine, the symbol of the village, and explore the historic Cedar path leading to it. For stunning views of the landscape and Sado Island on clear days, take a 5-minute ropeway ride to the summit of Mt. Yahiko.
Showing 2 ships in the area
No ships scheduled in port today.
On average cruises visiting Niigata are moderately inexpensive compared to other itineraries. The illustration below shows the monthly average cost per day for cruises visiting Niigata. Sailings visiting Niigata during the the peak season of spring are much more expensive than the low months of winter and fall.
Want to hear about the best deals and cruise tips every week? Sign up for our free weekly VIP Newsletter, customized exactly to your preferences!
