Jōetsu,
Jōetsu is a city located in Niigata Prefecture, Japan, known for its beautiful natural surroundings including mountains, rivers, and the Sea of Japan. It is a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts, offering a variety of activities such as hiking, skiing, and water sports. The city is also rich in history and culture, with several historic sites and museums to explore.
Jōetsu is a bustling urban center with a mix of modern amenities and traditional charm, making it a diverse and vibrant place to visit.
Places to visit
Key Phrases
Speak like a local
- "こんにちは" - Hello
- "ありがとう" - Thank you
- "おはよう" - Good morning
- "こんばんは" - Good evening
- "さようなら" - Goodbye
Day plans
Spend a day exploring around
Exploring the City
morning:Start your day by visiting the Jōetsu Aquarium, where you can marvel at a variety of marine life. Don't miss the mesmerizing dolphin show! Head to a local cafe for a delightful breakfast while enjoying the sea view.
afternoon:Take a stroll around Maiko Park and relax by the tranquil Kiyotsu Gorge. Enjoy a traditional lunch at Soba Dokoro Matsubaya, known for its authentic buckwheat noodles.
evening:Experience the vibrant nightlife at the Pia Bandai shopping district, bustling with bars, restaurants, and entertainment options.
Cultural Immersion
morning:Discover the rich history of Jōetsu at Takada Castle, known for its elegant architecture and picturesque surroundings. Indulge in a hearty breakfast at Ramen Sakaba Shimojo, famous for its mouthwatering ramen.
afternoon:Immerse yourself in traditional Japanese art at the Takada Art Museum. Delight in a delicious lunch at Asanoya, offering a variety of authentic Japanese dishes.
evening:Enjoy a traditional Japanese tea ceremony at a local teahouse and savor the serene ambiance of a tranquil Japanese garden.
Outdoor Adventure
morning:Embark on an exciting hiking adventure in the Myoko-Togakushi Renzan National Park, surrounded by breathtaking natural beauty. Refuel with a scrumptious breakfast at Cafe de Jardin, a cozy spot nestled in nature.
afternoon:Venture to Lake Nojiri for a relaxing boat ride and picturesque views. Recharge with a delightful lunch at Lakeside Kitchen Shirakaba, known for its delectable lakeside dining experience.
evening:Head to the Nojiriko Hot Springs for a rejuvenating soak surrounded by scenic landscapes and end the day with a peaceful lakeside walk.
Gastronomic Delights
morning:Embark on a culinary adventure at the local fish market, exploring a variety of fresh seafood options. Enjoy a delightful seafood breakfast at one of the market's inviting stalls.
afternoon:Attend a sushi-making workshop and learn the art of crafting authentic Japanese sushi. Indulge in your own creations for a fulfilling lunch experience.
evening:Satisfy your cravings with a visit to Jōetsu's renowned sushi restaurants, where expert chefs will tantalize your taste buds with an exquisite sushi dinner experience.
Jōetsu Famous Food
Must-Try local dishes
Murakami Beef
Indulge in the renowned Murakami Beef, known for its exceptional marbling and melt-in-your-mouth tenderness. Visit specialty restaurants like Murakami Beef Sasanoyuki for an authentic experience.
Must-Try!
Sasa Dango
Savor the traditional sweet treat of Sasa Dango, a delicate rice dumpling wrapped in bamboo leaves. Look for them in local sweet shops or at festivals and street vendors.
Hegi Soba
Try Hegi Soba, a regional specialty featuring buckwheat noodles served with various toppings like tempura and mountain vegetables. Enjoy it at traditional soba shops like Kitamachi Hegi Soba.
Food Markets & Street Food
A food market and street food guide
Takada Honcho Morning Market
Explore the vibrant Takada Honcho Morning Market, bustling with stalls offering fresh produce, local snacks, and handmade crafts. Sample street food such as yakisoba noodles and taiyaki pastries.
Muikamachi Hakkaisan Ropeway
Head to Muikamachi Hakkaisan Ropeway area to find stalls selling an array of street foods like kiritanpo, a grilled rice skewer, and amazake, a sweet fermented rice drink.
Things to do in Jōetsu
Unique local experiences...
Pet sitters in Jōetsu
Relax and unwind while your furry friend enjoys making a new companion!