Niigata, Japan | Hoshitoge Rice Terrace & Echigo-Tsumari Art Field Tour (with Lunch)
- Enjoy Niigata cuisine with lunch included!
- Includes an Echigo-Tsumari Art Field pass! Use it freely even after the tour if you are staying for multiple days.
- Solo travelers welcome! Visit hidden gems that are hard to reach on your own.
Package options
Sightseeing Tours
| Tour Type | Shared tour |
| Transportation method | Get there on your own |
| Departure Time | Late Departure (After 9 am) |
| Minimum participant requirement | 1 traveler |
| Tour types | None |
| Meal arrangement | Lunch included |
| Sightseeing type | Natural sights, Bus tour |
Product Info
This is a luxurious art tour that takes you smoothly by private car to popular spots you have always wanted to see, such as the Hoshitoge Rice Terrace and Echigo-Tsumari Art Field works like House of Light, The Last Class, and MonET.
Even areas that are difficult to reach by train or local bus are easy to get to with a private car!
Hoshitoge Rice Terrace
Purchase Notice
[Travel Conditions]
Departure point: Yuzawa-machi
Destination: Tokamachi City
Duration: 1 day
Transportation: Minibus
Bus operator: Minami Echigo Kanko Bus
Meals: Breakfast 0, Lunch 1, Dinner 0
Min. people to depart: 1 person
Tour leader: None
Guide: None
[Travel Planning/Operation]
Company name: Snow Country Tourism Association
Address: 2431-1 Yuzawa, Yuzawa-machi, Minamiuonuma-gun, Niigata
Registration number: ANTA Regular Member, Niigata Prefecture Governor Registered Travel Agency No. 2-433
Reminders
Please arrive at the designated location 5 minute(s) before the scheduled departure time, as the tour will depart on time
The itinerary may change due to temporary closures of facilities, etc. You will be notified in advance if this occurs.
No guide will accompany the tour. You will explore each spot on your own, so please follow the driver's instructions and be punctual.
Seating is non-reserved seating.
Please note that the bus may be delayed due to road conditions.
Cancellation Policy
- Cancellations 4 day(s) (inclusive) before the selected date are allowed. Unused orders can be canceled for free
- For cancellations made 2 to 3 days prior to selected date, a cancellation fee of 30% will apply
- For cancellations made 1 to 1 days prior to selected date, a cancellation fee of 40% will apply
- Cancellation is not allowed between 0–0 days from the selected date. Orders cannot be canceled or modified, and refunds will not be granted.
- Due to time zone differences, the confirmed cancellation date is based on the supplier’s local time. Please allow 2–5 business days to process your cancellation request, after which the cancellation fee will be charged according to the product’s cancellation policy. Once your refund request is confirmed, KKday will initiate the refund to your original payment method within 15 days. The actual refund timing depends on your card-issuing bank’s policy.
FAQs
1. When is the best time to visit Hoshitoge Rice Terraces for optimal views?
The Hoshitoge Rice Terraces offer diverse beauty throughout the year. For lush green landscapes, visit from May to July. From September to October, the fields turn golden before harvest. The most iconic "mirror rice paddies" effect, where the sky reflects on the water-filled terraces, is best seen during the planting season (late May to early June) and after heavy rain, especially at dawn or dusk. Winter also offers a unique snow-covered vista.
2. What unique photographic opportunities do Hoshitoge Rice Terraces offer?
Hoshitoge Rice Terraces are renowned for their picturesque, layered landscape that transforms with the seasons. Photographers often capture the dramatic reflections on the water-filled paddies, especially at sunrise or sunset. The dynamic interplay of light, clouds, and the terraced fields creates stunning compositions. In spring, young seedlings emerge, while autumn brings golden hues. Snowy winter scenes also provide unique contrasts.
3. What kind of art and cultural experiences can visitors expect at the Echigo-Tsumari Art Triennale?
The Echigo-Tsumari Art Triennale transforms the entire region into an open-air art museum, featuring contemporary artworks integrated into the natural landscape and local villages. Visitors can discover sculptures, installations, and architectural pieces scattered across the vast area, often exploring themes of nature, community, and Satoyama culture. Many artworks are housed in disused schools or farmhouses, offering unique cultural insights.
4. How can independent travelers best access remote locations like Hoshitoge Rice Terraces in Niigata?
Hoshitoge Rice Terraces are located in a rural, mountainous area, making independent access challenging without a private vehicle. Public transportation options are limited, often requiring transfers and long walks from bus stops. For a hassle-free experience, consider joining a guided tour that includes dedicated transportation, ensuring you can comfortably reach these hidden gems and fully enjoy the scenery without navigating complex routes.
5. Is the common ticket for the Echigo-Tsumari Art Triennale valid for multiple days?
Yes, the common ticket for the Echigo-Tsumari Art Triennale is designed for flexibility. It allows for unlimited use during consecutive stays after your tour, enabling visitors to explore the extensive art installations at their own pace over several days. This is particularly beneficial for those who wish to delve deeper into the diverse artworks and locations spread across the region.
6. Are solo travelers welcome on tours exploring Hoshitoge Rice Terraces and the Art Triennale?
Absolutely. Tours covering Hoshitoge Rice Terraces and the Echigo-Tsumari Art Triennale are suitable for solo travelers. They offer a great opportunity to explore areas that might be difficult to access independently, providing comfort and convenience. Solo participants can enjoy the curated itinerary and meet other travelers, all while experiencing the unique landscapes and art without the complexities of solo planning.
7. What type of lunch is typically included in the Niigata Art Triennale tour experience?
The Niigata Art Triennale tour typically includes lunch, offering participants a chance to savor local Niigata cuisine. The specific type of meal can vary, but it is designed to provide a taste of the region's culinary delights. This inclusion enhances the overall cultural experience, allowing guests to enjoy authentic Japanese flavors amidst their art and nature exploration.
8. Beyond Hoshitoge Rice Terraces, what other unique natural landscapes are featured in the Echigo-Tsumari Art Triennale area?
The Echigo-Tsumari Art Triennale region is rich in diverse natural landscapes. Beyond Hoshitoge Rice Terraces, visitors can explore lush forests, meandering rivers, traditional Japanese villages nestled in valleys, and rolling hills. The art installations are often integrated with these elements, inviting viewers to experience art within a broader context of untouched nature and rural charm.
