Discover Japan’s Hidden Gems: Niigata, Shiga, and Saitama Prefectures
With the world becoming increasingly globalized, ‘avoiding the crowds’ is a popular term for travelers. In the post-Covid-19 era, this sentiment rings true more than ever. Japan witnessed a massive tourism surge during the 2010s, but there are sections of the country left largely unexplored by international visitors.
By traveling along the ‘New Golden Route’ on the Shinkansen (bullet train), you can access Japan’s most unique destinations. This series of railways connects the major cities of Tokyo, Kyoto, and Osaka with central Honshu, the Sea of Japan Coast, and many off-the-beaten-track locales.
Niigata, Shiga, and Saitama Prefectures fit into the latter category. Each comes with distinct cultural traditions, many of which have existed for hundreds of years: the high-end copperware of Gyokusendo in Niigata, the nationally-acclaimed Omi beef in Shiga, and the Kannon Pilgrimage trail in Saitama’s Chichibu City.
Therefore, hop on the Shinkansen for these often-overlooked destinations and explore these 24-hour itineraries for three fascinating prefectures. To make the most of the Shinkansen, consider the all-access Hokuriku Arch Pass.
Niigata Prefecture
Closest Major Hub City: Tokyo (approximately 2 hours from Tsubamesanjo Station via Shinkansen)
Itoigawa (Morning)
Start your Niigata journey on the Kubiki Cycling Road in Itoigawa, a cycling course on the Sea of Japan. The course meanders along vast seascapes, beaches flecked with jade pebbles, rice paddies, and solemn temples, alongside abandoned railway tunnels.
Rent a bike from Itoigawa Station Geopark and head to the Benten-iwa, a stoic landmass off the coast, home to a shrine dedicated to the Shinto sea goddess Ichikishimahime-no-mikoto.
For lunch, stop at Roadside Station Marine Dream Nou, home to Japan’s largest red queen crab market.
Joetsu (Afternoon)
From Itoigawa Station, travel to the Musashino Sake Brewery in Joetsu, accessible in just 12 minutes. Nihonshu, or rice wine commonly referred to as ‘sake’, is an integral part of Japanese dining culture.
Thanks to its frigid winters and abundant rice, Niigata is one of Japan’s chief nihonshu-brewing regions with 89 breweries throughout the prefecture. Take a tour of Musashino’s brewery here and sample some of its signature styles.
Niigata City (Evening Option 1)
Head to Niigata City, a two-hour bus ride northeast. Originally an agricultural area, it has flourished as a port town. The Shinano River runs through, where you’ll find the charming Bandai Bridge. If the season permits, check out events such as the Niigata Sake Fair in March or an August fireworks festival.
Alternatively, visit Suzakaya Soba for hegi soba noodles, a local specialty known for its silky smooth texture.
Myoko City (Evening Option 2)
If you’d prefer a shorter journey, visit Myoko City, just 30 minutes from Joetsu. The Kanzuri Factory is a popular spot to learn about this local seasoning made by fermenting peppers and yuzu over three years.
Tsubame (Morning)
Before you leave Niigata, explore Gyokusendo in Tsubame, known for high-end copperware. This factory has a 200-plus year history of crafting daily-use products.
Shiga Prefecture
Closest Major Hub City: Kyoto (about 20 minutes on the Shinkansen from Maibara Station)
Lake Biwa (Morning and Afternoon)
Shiga Prefecture is often overlooked but is home to Japan’s largest freshwater lake, Biwa. Almost the entire shoreline is surrounded by a bike and pedestrian path, making it ideal for cycling tours.
For a one-day cycle plan, rent a bike at Maibara Cycle Station. The station is directly accessible from Kyoto Station and offers a scenic route through historic sites and parks.
Omihachiman (Evening)
Shiga’s Omi beef is renowned for its tenderness, making it a must-try in Omihachiman. Popular restaurants include Restaurant Tiffany and Sennaritei.
Consider resting at Green Hotel Yes Ohmi-hachiman, which features onsen facilities for relaxation after a long day.
Saitama
Closest Major Hub City: Tokyo (approximately 30 minutes from Omiya Station via Shinkansen)
Chichibu (Morning)
Start exploring Saitama in Chichibu City, home to the Chichibu 34 Kannon Temple Circuit, introducing travelers to 34 Buddhist temples set among the mountains.
Nagatoro (Afternoon and Evening)
A 20-minute train ride brings you to Nagatoro, where you can enjoy activities such as whitewater rafting or relaxing riverboat tours.
Morning Option 1: Gyoda Rice Paddy Art
Visit the Gyoda rice paddies, where artworks made from different colored rice are displayed seasonally.
Morning Option 2: Kawagoe
Kawagoe City offers a glimpse into its Edo Period past, with historical buildings constructed as warehouses that survived the Great Kawagoe Fire of 1893. It’s an excellent stop before heading to Tokyo.
