Things To Do
in Maki

Maki is a charming coastal town in Japan, located in Niigata Prefecture. Known for its beautiful beaches and stunning views of the Sea of Japan, Maki attracts both locals and tourists seeking relaxation and adventure. The town is also famous for its rich cultural heritage, including traditional festivals and local craftsmanship.

Visitors can enjoy a mix of outdoor activities, delicious cuisine, and friendly hospitality in this serene environment.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Day 1: Maki Exploration
morning
:

Start your day with a visit to Maki Beach, where you can enjoy the sunrise and take a leisurely stroll along the shoreline.

afternoon
:

Explore the Maki History Museum to learn about the town's local culture and history, followed by lunch at a nearby sushi restaurant.

evening
:

Dine at a local izakaya and enjoy the vibrant atmosphere, ending your day with a peaceful walk along the beach as the sun sets.

day 2
Day 2: Nature and Culture
morning
:

Head to the nearby Mount Kurohime for a morning hike that offers stunning panoramic views of the surrounding landscape.

afternoon
:

Visit the local craft shops to see artisans at work and purchase unique souvenirs, followed by a tasting session at a sake brewery.

evening
:

Finish your trip with a traditional Kaiseki dinner, experiencing the delicate flavors of seasonal ingredients served in an elegant setting.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍣Sushi Meal$15
🍵Matcha Latte$5
🏨Hotel Night$100
🚌Local Bus Ticket$2
🛍️Souvenir$10

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Beautiful coastal scenery and beaches.
  • Rich cultural heritage and friendly locals.
  • Delicious local cuisine, especially seafood.
  • Limited nightlife options for party-goers.
  • Public transportation may have limited schedules.
  • Language barrier for non-Japanese speakers.
  • "こんにちは" - Hello
  • "ありがとうございます" - Thank you
  • "すみません" - Excuse me/Sorry
  • "はい" - Yes
  • "いいえ" - No

Places to Visit in Maki

Visit one of these nice places.

Maki Beach

Capture the stunning beachfront views, especially during sunrise and sunset.

Mount Kurohime

A perfect spot for panoramic photographs of the surrounding countryside and the Sea of Japan.

Maki History Museum

Photograph the beautifully preserved artifacts and traditional architecture that tell the story of Maki.

Culinary Guide

Food in Maki

Maki's culinary scene is a delightful blend of fresh seafood and local specialties that reflect the region's rich maritime heritage.

Maki Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Sushi

Freshly caught fish served on vinegared rice, a staple of Japanese cuisine.

Must-Try!

Kaiseki

A traditional multi-course meal that showcases seasonal ingredients and meticulous presentation.

Sake

Locally brewed rice wine, known for its rich flavors and perfect pairing with Japanese dishes.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Maki Food Market

A vibrant market featuring local produce, seafood, and street food stalls offering quick bites.

Climate Guide

Weather

Maki experiences a humid continental climate with four distinct seasons. Summers (June to August) are warm and humid, with temperatures often reaching the mid-30s °C (mid-90s °F). Winters (December to February) can be cold, with temperatures dropping to around -5°C (23°F), along with considerable snowfall. Spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November) are mild, making these seasons ideal for outdoor activities.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Politeness

Always greet locals with a bow and use polite language; showing respect is highly valued.

Shoes Off Indoors

Remove your shoes when entering homes and certain traditional establishments.

Quiet Public Spaces

Maintain a low volume in public areas, including trains and restaurants, to respect others.

Safety Guide

Safety

Maki is generally a safe town with low crime rates, making it a welcoming destination for travelers. Standard precautions, such as being aware of your surroundings and securing personal belongings, are advisable. Emergency services can be reached by dialing 110 for police and 119 for fire and medical emergencies.

Tipping in Maki

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping Customs

Tipping is not customary in Japan; exceptional service is expected as part of the experience.

Payment Methods

Cash is widely used, but credit cards are accepted in many restaurants and stores in urban areas.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Spring

Enjoy cherry blossoms blooming in parks, mild weather, and various local festivals.

Summer

Expect warm temperatures, perfect for beach activities and outdoor festivals, but be prepared for occasional rain.

Autumn

Experience colorful foliage and cooler temperatures, ideal for hiking and enjoying local harvest festivals.

Winter

Cold temperatures and snowfall may occur, offering opportunities for winter sports and cozy indoor activities.

Nightlife Guide

Maki at Night

Maki offers a relaxed nightlife scene with several izakayas and bars where locals gather to socialize over drinks and traditional dishes. The atmosphere is friendly and unpretentious, making it a great place to unwind after a day of exploration. While there are no large clubs, smaller live music venues and karaoke bars add to the charm of the evening entertainment.

Hiking in Maki

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Mount Kurohime Trail

A well-marked trail leading to the summit of Mount Kurohime, offering scenic views and diverse flora.

Yahiko Park Trail

A moderate trail through Yahiko Park, featuring beautiful landscapes and opportunities for picnicking.

Airports

How to reach Maki by plane.

Niigata Airport (KIJ)

Located about 40 km away from Maki, Niigata Airport serves both domestic and international flights, providing easy access to the region.

Getting Around

Walkability

Maki is a walkable town, with many attractions, shops, and restaurants located within a reasonable distance from each other. The town's layout encourages leisurely strolls, particularly along the beach and through parks. Sidewalks are generally well-maintained, and pedestrian crossings are common, making it safe for walkers.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Young Families

Many young families reside in Maki, drawn by its peaceful atmosphere and access to nature.

Retirees

The town is also home to retirees who appreciate the serene environment and community-oriented lifestyle.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Baseball

A popular sport in Japan, with many local teams and enthusiasts, especially among the youth.

Soccer

Soccer has a growing fanbase, with local clubs participating in regional leagues.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic in Maki is generally light, and the town is easily navigable by car or bicycle. Public transportation is available, with buses connecting Maki to nearby cities and attractions. However, during peak tourist seasons, roads can get congested, particularly near popular beaches.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Maki.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian/Vegan Options

While traditional Japanese cuisine focuses on fish and meat, many restaurants offer vegetarian and vegan options upon request.

Gluten-Free

Gluten-free options are limited, but rice-based dishes like sushi and sashimi are generally safe.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Healthcare access in Maki is reliable, with several clinics and a hospital available for residents and visitors. Emergency services are prompt, and most medical staff can communicate in basic English. It is advisable for travelers to have health insurance that covers overseas medical expenses.

Discover Japan

Read more in our Japan 2025 Travel Guide.

Japan Travel Guide