The easiest way around Niigata is on foot, since the major sights and attractions are within walking distance from each other. Though, some sights are located a bit further ahead, where a car or bus might be necessary. 

• By Shinkansen (Bullet Train): Directly from Tokyo Station, it is a 2-hour ride on the JR East’s Joetsu Shinkansen to Niigata Station, with the fastest trains completing the trip in about 97 minutes.

• By Local Train and Bus: nineteen express buses leave daily for Niigata from the terminal outside the east exit of Tokyo’s Ikebukuro train station. 

National Rail Passes

• Japan Rail Pass

Regional Rail Passes

• JR East Nagano Niigata Area Pass

• JR East South Hokkaido Rail Pass

• JR East Tohoku Area Pass

• JR Tokyo Wide Pass

Bus Passes

• Japan Bus Pass

Rental cars:

We recommend staying here for about one day. 
 

The nearest and most convenient airport to Niigata City, Japan is Niigata Airport (KIJ).

• By car: approximately 25 minutes

• By public transportation: approximately 30 minutes by bus from Niigata Airport to Niigata Station

Hiking: The hiking season in this area typically runs from Spring until Autumn.

Scenic rides: (scenic boat tours usually close down during the autumn and winter periods)

• Shinanogawa Water Shuttle 

We recommend the following options for staying connected in Japan:

• Sakura Mobile Travel Sim (data only)
• Sakura Mobile Travel Sim (data + voice)
• Sakura Mobile Unlimited Wifi / Pocket Wifi