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There are great many things to do in Japan, and so are in Nagaoka.
Nagaoka, a city nestled in the heart of the Niigata Prefecture, is a delightful blend of culture, history, and modernity, offering visitors a sensory explosion that is second to none.
Whether you’re a foodie looking to savor some of the finest delicacies in the region or an adventure seeker eager to explore the great outdoors, Nagaoka promises to delight you with a wealth of experiences that will leave you wanting more.
Without further ado listed below are some of the most fun things to do in Nagaoka:
1. Yahiko Shrine
A Shinto shrine located in Yahiko, Nagaoka city, Japan.
What to see or do: Admire the beautiful architecture and serene atmosphere of the shrine. Walk around the well-manicured gardens to enjoy the local flora and fauna.
Take in the stunning views of the surrounding mountainous landscape.
Don’t miss: The annual ritual of the “Samurai Parade” held in June, where participants dressed in samurai costumes march through the town to the shrine.
Insider travel tips: Visit early in the morning to avoid the crowds and take in the tranquility of the place. Wear comfortable shoes as the shrine grounds are vast and require walking.
Don’t forget to try the local specialty “hegi soba,” buckwheat noodles served with a flavorful broth.
2. Nagaoka City Science Museum
The Nagaoka City Science Museum is a modern museum in Nagaoka, Japan, dedicated to promoting science education and exploration.
What to see or do: Visitors can experience a variety of interactive exhibits, such as the 360-degree planetarium, a simulated earthquake room, and an outdoor science park.
The museum also holds special exhibitions throughout the year.
Don’t miss: Be sure to check out the museum’s unique displays, like the world’s largest Foucault pendulum and a real-life-sized model of a blue whale heart.
Insider travel tips: – The museum is closed on Mondays and during the New Year holiday period.
3. Koryu Shrine
Koryu Shrine is a Shinto shrine located in Nagaoka, Japan.
What to see or do: This beautifully maintained shrine is dedicated to the god of agriculture, making it a popular site for tourists and locals alike.
Visitors can admire the brightly colored shrine gates and the intricate wood carvings on the main hall. A peaceful stroll through the surrounding forested area is a must.
Don’t miss: Be sure to check out the shrine’s unique feature – a large wooden abacus. This is a nod to the shrine’s dedication to the god of agriculture and commerce.
Take a closer look at the abacus to see the intricate hand-painted details.
Insider travel tips: Get off the beaten path and visit Koryu Shrine during the quieter months, such as February or March. The striking colors of the shrine gates are especially beautiful against a backdrop of snow.
Be sure to also check the shrine’s website to see if any special festivals or events are happening during your visit.
4. Nagaoka Castle Ruins
Nagaoka Castle Ruins is a historical site located in the city of Nagaoka, Japan. It was originally built in the 16th century and served as the residence of the powerful Uesugi clan.
What to see or do: Visitors can walk around the grounds of the castle ruins and explore the various structures that remain, including the ruins of the castle keep, gates, walls, and moats.
The site also offers a great view of the surrounding landscape.
Don’t miss: Don’t miss the chance to visit the Nagaoka History Museum, located near the ruins.
Here, you can learn more about the history of the castle and the Uesugi clan, as well as the local history of Nagaoka.
Insider travel tips: – Visiting the castle ruins during the cherry blossom season (late March to early April) is a must-see.
5. Kawai Tsuginosuke Memorial Museum of Art
Kawai Tsuginosuke Memorial Museum of Art is an art museum dedicated to the legacy of Kawai Tsuginosuke, a prominent Japanese artist of the Meiji era.
What to see or do: The museum houses a collection of over 1,000 works of art, including paintings, sculptures, and calligraphy by Kawai Tsuginosuke and his contemporaries.
Visitors can also enjoy exhibitions featuring modern artists, as well as educational programs and workshops.
Don’t miss: Don’t miss the opportunity to view Kawai Tsuginosuke’s masterpiece, “The Return of Spring” in person. The painting embodies the spirit of the Meiji era and serves as a symbol of hope and renewal.
Insider travel tips: Plan to spend at least 1-2 hours at the museum to explore all it has to offer.
6. Koshiji Temple
A historic Buddhist temple located in Nagaoka, Japan.
What to see or do: Admire the beautiful architecture and traditional Japanese gardens. Explore the five-story pagoda and main hall.
Visitors can also participate in meditation sessions and attend Buddhist rituals.
Don’t miss: The annual Setsubun Festival held in February, where visitors can participate in the traditional bean-throwing ceremony and watch the lion dance performances.
Insider travel tips: Wear comfortable shoes as there are several stairs and walking paths within the temple grounds. Visit during the fall season when the autumn leaves create a picturesque backdrop.
Remember to be respectful and follow temple etiquette during your visit.
7. Nagaoka City Hall Observation Deck
An observation deck located at the top of the Nagaoka City Hall, offering a stunning 360-degree panoramic view of the city and the surrounding mountains.
What to see or do: Admire the breathtaking view of Nagaoka from above and take in the city’s unique landscape, including the Shinano River, the Echigo Mountains, and the Niigata Plain.
The observation deck also features a telescope that enables you to zoom in on specific landmarks and buildings.
Don’t miss: The opportunity to visit the observation deck at night, when the city lights create a magical atmosphere and a completely different perspective of Nagaoka emerges.
Insider travel tips: – The Nagaoka City Hall Observation Deck is free to enter and open to the public.
8. Komachi yama Shrine
Komachi yama Shrine is a Shinto shrine located in Nagaoka, Japan.
It is dedicated to the goddess of wisdom, poetry, and calligraphy, and is a popular site of worship for artists and writers.
What to see or do: Visitors to Komachi yama Shrine can admire the beautiful architecture of the main hall, which features a traditional hipped roof and ornate carvings.
The shrine is also known for its stunning gardens, including a pond filled with koi fish. Visitors can take a relaxing stroll around the grounds and enjoy the peaceful atmosphere.
Don’t miss: Be sure to check out the special exhibitions that are sometimes held at Komachi yama Shrine. These displays often feature works of calligraphy and other traditional Japanese art.
Insider travel tips: – Visit Komachi yama Shrine in the early morning or late afternoon to avoid crowds.
9. Yamakoshi Alpaca Farm
Yamakoshi Alpaca Farm is a unique attraction in Nagaoka, Japan, where you can interact with and learn about these adorable animals.
What to see or do: Get up close and personal with the alpacas as you walk through the farm and feed them. You can also take part in hands-on activities such as spinning alpaca wool and making felt crafts.
Don’t miss: Make sure to visit the shop, where you can purchase high-quality alpaca wool products, souvenirs, and snacks made with alpaca milk.
Insider travel tips: – The alpacas can be a bit shy, so approach them slowly and calmly.
10. Wada Family Residence Historical Park
A historical park that showcases the traditional Japanese architecture of the Wada Family Residence, which was built in the Edo period.
What to see or do: Visitors can take a leisurely stroll through the property and see the gorgeous architecture of the residence, including the main house, tea house, and the garden.
Don’t miss: The traditional Japanese garden, which is a beautiful and peaceful oasis in the bustling city.
Insider travel tips: – Visit in the spring to see the cherry blossoms in full bloom in the garden.
11. Echigo Hillside Park
Echigo Hillside Park is a sprawling park situated in the heart of Nagaoka, Japan.
What to see or do: This picturesque park offers breathtaking views of the surrounding Echigo plains and is home to a diverse range of flora and fauna.
Visitors can stroll along the walking paths, take in the beautiful scenery, and enjoy the peaceful atmosphere. There is also an amusement park section that includes rides and activities for children and adults alike.
Don’t miss: The park’s stunning Rose Garden is a must-see, featuring over 2,000 rose bushes of various assortments and colors.
Additionally, the park holds regular events and exhibitions throughout the year, so be sure to check the schedule before your visit.
Insider travel tips: – The park can become crowded during peak season, so plan your visit accordingly.
12. Nagaoka Matsuri Kaikan
A cultural center in Nagaoka, Japan that showcases the history and traditions of the Nagaoka Matsuri festival.
What to see or do: Visitors can view exhibits featuring festival floats, traditional costumes and musical instruments, as well as learn about the history and significance of the Nagaoka Matsuri festival.
The center also offers hands-on workshops where visitors can try their hand at traditional crafts such as drumming and paper lantern-making.
Don’t miss: The center’s collection of festival floats, which are decorated with intricate carvings and colorful tapestries.
Visitors can also see a performance of the Koryu Fireworks Technique, a traditional fireworks display unique to the Nagaoka Matsuri festival.
Insider travel tips: Be sure to check the center’s calendar of events, as they often host festivals and performances throughout the year. Visitors should also be aware that the center is closed on Mondays and during the New Year’s holiday period.
13. Eguchi Residence
The Eguchi Residence is a well-preserved example of a traditional Japanese merchant house, located in the historic castle town of Nagaoka.
What to see or do: Visitors can explore the various rooms of the house, including the kitchen and living areas, and see the intricate wooden lattice work and sliding doors that are characteristic of the period.
The garden outside is also worth a visit, with a small pond and beautiful landscaping.
Don’t miss: One of the highlights is the traditional irori, or sunken hearth, which was used for cooking and heating in the colder months.
The intricate construction of the hearth and its position in the house are a testament to the skill of the craftsmen who built it.
Insider travel tips: To fully appreciate the history and significance of the house, it’s recommended to hire a guide who can explain the various features and provide context for the Edo period (1603-1868) in which it was built.
The nearby Nagaoka Castle ruins and the city’s museum are also worth visiting to learn more about the area’s rich history.
14. Yamamoto Isoroku Memorial Museum
The Yamamoto Isoroku Memorial Museum is a museum dedicated to the life and achievements of Yamamoto Isoroku, the commander-in-chief of the Japanese Combined Fleet during World War II.
What to see or do: Visitors can see a collection of artifacts related to Yamamoto’s life, including personal items, military uniforms, and photographs. The museum also features exhibitions on naval history, the Pacific War, and the Battle of Pearl Harbor.
Don’t miss: Be sure to check out the replica of the Yamato, the iconic Japanese battleship that Yamamoto helped design.
There is also a full-scale model of a Mitsubishi A6M Zero fighter plane, which Yamamoto’s fleet relied heavily upon during the war.
Insider travel tips: – The museum is closed on Mondays and during the year-end and New Year holidays.
15. Tochio Honjin Historical Park
Tochio Honjin Historical Park is a beautifully restored and preserved traditional Japanese inn from the Edo Period.
What to see or do: Visitors can stroll around the park and explore the former inn’s buildings, including the guest accommodations, food preparation area, and various other structures.
The park also has a museum that displays artifacts and exhibits that provide a glimpse into the daily life of the innkeepers and their guests during the Edo period.
Don’t miss: Do not miss the traditional Japanese garden on the property. The meticulously maintained garden is breathtaking and provides a peaceful ambiance for visitors to enjoy.
Also, be sure to catch the Ninja show where trained actors perform stunts and acrobatics, providing great entertainment.
Insider travel tips: Tochio Honjin Historical Park is easily accessible by car, but it is also possible to take a train to the nearest station.
The best time to visit is during the spring when the cherry blossoms are in bloom, although autumn is also great because of the colorful foliage.
Guided tours are available, and it is recommended to book ahead of time if possible.