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If you have done the things to do in Japan, you’d know there are quite a few of them here in Murakami.
Welcome to Murakami, a city that is ripe for exploration and adventure.
From the mouth-watering local cuisine to the stunning natural landscapes, let the city’s charm whisk you away on a journey you’ll never forget.
There are countless things to do and sights to see in Murakami- so pack your bags and get ready to embark on an unforgettable journey through this hidden gem.
Without further ado listed below are some of the most fun things to do in Murakami:
1. Murakami Castle
Murakami Castle is a historic castle located in Murakami City, Niigata Prefecture, Japan.
What to see or do: Visitors can tour the castle’s beautiful grounds and experience the history of the Edo period. The castle also offers breathtaking views of the Sea of Japan and the surrounding mountains.
Don’t miss: Be sure to visit the main tower, which was restored in 2001 and houses a museum with exhibits on the history of the castle and its significance in Japanese history.
Insider travel tips: Take a walk around the castle grounds during cherry blossom season – the castle is particularly beautiful when the cherry blossoms are in full bloom.
Additionally, visitors can purchase unique and handmade souvenirs from local vendors near the castle entrance.
2. Haguro Shrine
Haguro Shrine is a serene and picturesque Shinto shrine located in the coastal town of Murakami in Niigata, Japan.
What to see or do: Visitors to Haguro Shrine can enjoy a peaceful stroll through the shrine’s grounds, featuring beautiful Japanese gardens, ponds, and a traditional Shinto archway.
The main shrine building, dating back to the 18th century, is especially impressive with its magnificent thatched roof.
Don’t miss: Be sure to walk the 365 steps leading up to the shrine, as they are said to represent the days of a year.
The view from the top is well worth the effort.
Insider travel tips: – For a truly tranquil experience, visit the shrine early in the morning before the crowds arrive.
3. Murakami City Museum
The Murakami City Museum is a museum in Murakami, Japan that showcases Tsubame-Katayama traditional woodblock printing and other local cultural artifacts.
What to see or do: The museum has several exhibitions that showcase different aspects of the city’s cultural heritage, including a Tsubame-Katayama woodblock print collection, local agriculture and food production, and the production of traditional Japanese crafts.
Visitors can also explore the beautiful garden outside the museum.
Don’t miss: Be sure to take a look at the intricate and beautiful Tsubame-Katayama woodblock prints that are on display.
These prints were once used to decorate the walls of Japanese homes and are now considered to be a highly valued art form.
Insider travel tips: If you’re a history buff, be sure to visit the museum’s library, which houses a collection of over 10,000 historical documents and artifacts.
Additionally, check ahead to see if any special events or concerts are scheduled during your visit.
4. Murakami Taisai
Murakami Taisai is a traditional festival celebrated in the city of Murakami in Niigata prefecture, Japan.
What to see or do: During the festival, you can see dozens of large ‘mikoshi’ portable shrines being carried around the city streets by enthusiastic locals in traditional costumes.
The main attraction of the event is the impressive parade of rhythmic taiko drumming, elaborate floats, costumed performers, and street food vendors.
Don’t miss: One of the most iconic events is the ‘Yosakoi’ dance competition, where over 100 groups compete for the title.
The festival also features a massive firework display, which illuminates the sky, and locals take a dip in the refreshing river to cool off.
Insider travel tips: To fully enjoy the Murakami Taisai, plan to stay in the city for at least two nights, as the festival is quite lengthy.
The best and busiest time to visit is during the first weekend in August, so be sure to book your accommodation in advance.
Don’t forget to bring comfortable shoes and clothes, as you might be walking for hours during the festival.
Finally, get ready to soak up the festive atmosphere and get involved with the locals, who are known for their friendly nature.
5. Sake Brewery Museum
Sake Brewery Museum is a historical building turned museum in Murakami, Japan that showcases the traditional methods of sake production.
What to see or do: Visitors can learn about the history and production of sake through informative exhibits and displays. Watch a live demonstration of sake brewing or taste the different varieties of sake available.
Don’t miss: The highlight of the museum is the chance to try freshly brewed sake straight from the tanks. The museum also has a gift shop where visitors can take home their favorite sake.
Insider travel tips: – The museum offers a free shuttle bus service from Murakami Station.
6. Teradomari Fish Market
Teradomari Fish Market is a wholesale and retail seafood market located in the charming city of Murakami in Niigata, Japan.
What to see or do: Visitors can wander through the bustling market and witness the impressive array of fresh seafood, including regional specialties like Murakami salmon, Echigo shrimp, and Hokkaido sea urchin.
The market also offers several restaurants serving up delicious seafood dishes.
Don’t miss: Be sure to try the kaisendon, a rice bowl topped with fresh sashimi, which is a popular dish amongst visitors.
Insider travel tips: – The market opens early in the morning, so arrive early to see the freshest seafood catches of the day.
7. Hiyoshi Shrine
Hiyoshi Shrine is a historic Shinto shrine located in the city of Murakami in Niigata Prefecture, Japan.
What to see or do: Visitors can explore the beautiful shrine grounds and traditional architecture. The shrine also has a small museum with displays on the history and culture of the area.
Don’t miss: The cherry blossom festival in April is a popular time to visit, as the shrine’s grounds are surrounded by hundreds of cherry trees in full bloom.
The annual Hiyoshi Taisha Grand Festival, held on the first weekend in September, features traditional music and dance performances.
Insider travel tips: Be sure to try the local specialty dish, Murakami beef, which is said to be some of the best in Japan.
It’s also worth exploring the nearby historic district of Furumachi, which has a number of well-preserved traditional buildings and shops.
8. Murakami Kanko Bussan Center
Murakami Kanko Bussan Center is a tourist center located in Murakami city, Niigata prefecture, Japan.
What to see or do: Visitors can learn about the history, culture, and traditional crafts of the Murakami area. The center has displays showcasing local products such as lacquerware, sake, and traditional sweets.
Don’t miss: The center also hosts workshops where visitors can try their hand at making local crafts such as pottery and woodwork. Visitors can also relax and enjoy a cup of tea at the center’s tea room.
Insider travel tips: The center is a great place to pick up souvenirs to take home, but be sure to check out the local shops and markets in town as well.
Murakami city is known for its salmon dishes, so be sure to try some while you’re there!
9. Oyu Onsen
A traditional Japanese hot spring (onsen) located in Murakami, a small town in Niigata Prefecture.
What to see or do: Soak in the natural hot spring water while enjoying the beautiful mountain views and fresh air. Take a walk around the peaceful town and admire the picturesque scenery of rural Japan.
Don’t miss: Trying the local cuisine, particularly Murakami beef and salmon sushi.
Experience a unique form of Japanese entertainment called “kamakura” – ice houses where you can enjoy drinks surrounded by snow walls.
Insider travel tips: Bring your own amenities such as towels, shampoo and soap. Be respectful of local customs such as washing yourself before entering the hot spring.
Visit during the off-season for a more tranquil experience.
10. Iwafune Shrine
A historic and revered Shinto shrine located in Murakami, Japan.
What to see or do: Take a stroll through the serene grounds of Iwafune Shrine, where you can admire the beautiful architecture and ancient artifacts that date back to the Edo Period.
Watch as locals come to pay their respects and offer their prayers to the various Shinto deities that reside here.
Don’t miss: The stunning panoramic views of the city and the Sea of Japan from the top of the shrine’s main building.
Insider travel tips: To fully appreciate the spiritual significance of Iwafune Shrine, be sure to take a guided tour to learn about its rich history and cultural significance.
If you happen to visit during the annual Oeshiki Festival in October, you’ll get to witness a spectacular display of lanterns and religious ceremonies that are sure to leave a lasting impression.
11. Murakami Fisherman’s Wharf
A seafood restaurant located at the famous Fisherman’s Wharf in San Francisco.
What to see or do: Enjoy a variety of fresh seafood dishes including clam chowder, lobster rolls, fish tacos, and Dungeness crab. The restaurant also has a lively bar where you can enjoy local beers and cocktails.
Don’t miss: Trying the famous sourdough bread bowl filled with hot clam chowder – it’s a San Francisco classic!
Insider travel tips: The restaurant can be quite busy, so make sure to arrive early or be prepared to wait for a table.
Additionally, the outdoor seating area provides beautiful views of the bay and Alcatraz Island, so try to snag a table outside if possible.
12. Sasagawa Nagare
A scenic river located in Murakami, Japan.
What to see or do: Take a boat ride along the river to admire the stunning scenery of the surrounding mountains and forests. Stop by the Sasagawa Nagare Observatory to get a panoramic view of the area.
Don’t miss: The experience of cormorant fishing, a traditional technique used to catch river fish. Watch as skilled fishermen use trained birds to dive into the water and catch fish in their beaks.
Insider travel tips: Visit in the fall to see the beautiful autumn foliage along the riverbanks. Be sure to try the local specialty dish, Murakami beef, which is known for its marbled and tender texture.
13. Yahikoyama Ropeway
A scenic ropeway ride to the top of Mt. Yahiko in Murakami, Japan.
What to see or do: Enjoy stunning views of the surrounding landscape from the top of the mountain. Take a hike on one of the many nature trails or enjoy a picnic with family and friends.
During the winter, visitors can enjoy skiing and snowboarding.
Don’t miss: The picturesque autumn foliage is a must-see, with vibrant colors of reds, yellows, and oranges. Also, don’t forget to try the local specialty, Murakami Beef, which is known for its high quality and delicious taste.
Insider travel tips: Purchase tickets in advance to avoid long lines. For the best views, opt for a clear day with good weather.
During peak seasons, it’s best to arrive earlier in the day to avoid crowds. Additionally, wear comfortable shoes and bring plenty of water for hiking.
14. Murakami Suigo Meguri (Wetlands tour)
Murakami Suigo Meguri is a nature tour that takes visitors on a boat ride through the wetlands of Murakami, Japan, providing visitors with an opportunity to witness the beauty of Japanese nature and wildlife.
What to see or do: Take a leisurely boat ride through the Murakami wetlands, where you will see a variety of local flora and fauna, including rare birds, turtles, fish, and beautiful water lilies.
The tour includes a stop at the Oyunuma Natural Footbath where you can enjoy a relaxing foot soak in naturally heated water.
Don’t miss: Don’t miss the chance to indulge in local wetland cuisine, including fresh seafood and vegetables from the region. For a unique experience, try the “oyaki” – a steamed bun filled with local wild vegetables.
Insider travel tips: Book your tour in advance as they tend to fill up quickly, especially during peak tourist season.
Dress appropriately for the weather conditions as the boat ride can get chilly, and wear comfortable shoes as you will be walking on wetlands terrain.
15. Hina no Yakata (Doll palace museum)
Hina no Yakata is a museum in Murakami dedicated to dolls and traditional Japanese culture.
What to see or do: The museum houses a vast collection of handmade Japanese dolls. Visitors can explore the exhibits showcasing the intricate details and unique craftsmanship of each doll.
Apart from dolls, the museum also has displays of antique furniture, household objects, and clothing from the Edo period.
Don’t miss: The highlight of the museum is the decoration of Japanese dolls set up to celebrate Hinamatsuri, the Japanese Doll Festival or Girls’ Day.
Each doll represents a different member of the imperial court and is placed on a series of tiered platforms. This exhibit is especially beautiful and attracts many tourists during the festival.
Insider travel tips: – The museum is easily accessible by public transportation, and the admission fee is reasonable.