2-Day Niigata & Gunma Tour from Tokyo | Kiyotsu Gorge, Fukiware Falls, Hakkaisan Ropeway, and Hot Spring Accommodation
- Capture two major natural wonders in one trip: visit the Kiyotsu Gorge, one of Japan's three great gorges, and stroll through the 'Tunnel of Light' to admire the 'mirror of the sky'; head to the Fukiware Falls, known as the 'Niagara of the Orient,' and feel the power of the waterfall and valley up close.
- Walk among the clouds on the 'Castle in the Sky' Hakkaisan Ropeway, look out over the Echigo mountains, and admire the dreamy sea of clouds.
- Autumn-exclusive panoramic foliage: Ride the Naeba Highlands 'Dragondola' valley gondola—one of the longest in Japan—to traverse mountains and valleys and enjoy a magnificent panoramic view of the autumn leaves.
- Enjoy a Japanese local-style lunch at Harada Farm, with the option to add on seasonal fruit picking to taste the freshest produce of the season.
- Stay at a highland hot spring resort hotel, enjoy natural hot springs to heal your body and mind, savor a Japanese-style dinner, and spend a relaxing night in the highlands surrounded by mountains.
- Roam through Japan's rural hidden gems, visit the Michi-no-Eki Takumi no Sato, and experience Japanese artisan culture, rural scenery, and local delicacies.
- Choose between hotel pick-up in downtown Tokyo or meeting at Tokyo Station/Shinjuku Station. Tours start with 4 people, with services in Chinese, Japanese, and English, making small-group travel more comfortable and relaxed.
Sightseeing Tours
| Tour Type | Shared tour |
| Transportation method | Transfer from meeting point |
| Departure Time | Early Departure (Before 8 am) |
| Minimum participant requirement | 4 travelers |
| Meal arrangement | Breakfast included, With dinner |
| Accommodation type | Hotel |
| Seasonal | Autumn Maple |
| Sightseeing type | Natural sights |
| Transport | Bus tour |
Product Info
- Step into the natural hidden gems of Japan's Kanto and Niigata regions and embark on a two-day in-depth journey combining waterfalls, gorges, gondolas, hot springs, and rural culture.
- On the first day, head to Fukiware Falls, known as the 'Niagara of the Orient,' stroll along the valley trail, and admire the magnificent gorge and natural scenery. At noon, taste local Gunma specialties and enjoy the freedom to participate in seasonal fruit picking. In the afternoon, visit Kiyotsu Gorge, one of Japan's three great gorges, walk into the famous 'Tunnel of Light,' and admire the dreamy water mirror landscape where art and nature merge. Stay overnight at the Naeba Prince Hotel and enjoy hot springs and highland resort time.
- On the second day, ride the Dragondola valley gondola, one of the longest sightseeing gondolas in Japan at approximately 5.5 km, to overlook the magnificent valleys, forests, and mountain scenery, and stroll through natural spots like forest trails, observation decks, and reflection lakes. Outside of the autumn foliage season, the itinerary will change to the Hakkaisan Ropeway, known as the 'Castle in the Sky,' where you can climb to the summit observation deck at an altitude of 1,147 meters to overlook the Uonuma Plain and the Echigo Three Mountains. If weather conditions are right, you may even have the chance to see a dreamy sea of clouds.
- At noon, visit the Michi-no-Eki 'Takumi no Sato,' which is full of Japanese rural charm, to feel the artisan culture and slow-paced countryside life, experience traditional crafts, taste local delicacies, and shop for unique souvenirs.
- Finally, head to Suwakyo Gorge, a representative spot of Minakami hot springs, walk along the valley trail, and admire the natural beauty where suspension bridges, streams, and mountains intertwine, bringing the two-day journey to a perfect end.
Fukiwari Falls, located in Gunma Prefecture, is approximately 30 meters wide and has a drop of about 7 meters. Over the years, the river has eroded the tuff riverbed, creating a huge fissure in the center. The torrents cascade down, seemingly "cutting" the riverbed open, hence the name "Fukiwari Falls." It is also known as the "Niagara Falls of the Orient" and is one of Gunma Prefecture's most representative natural landscapes. The area around the falls is well-developed, featuring valley trails, observation decks, and a floating Kannon-do (Kannon Temple). Visitors can stroll along the trails to experience the awe-inspiring power of the falls up close, or enjoy panoramic views of the valley, admiring the magnificent scenery where the river, cliffs, and forest intertwine. Fukigiri Falls presents a different appearance in each season: in spring, new greenery sprouts, and the valley is full of life; in summer, the water volume is abundant, the waterfall is magnificent, and the air is cool and pleasant; in autumn, maple leaves, beech trees, and other forests are dyed in a variety of colors such as red, yellow, and orange, forming a rich and layered autumn foliage landscape in the valley; in winter, under the influence of low temperatures, icefalls and snow scenes can occasionally be seen around the falls, presenting a tranquil and spectacular winter landscape. The changing natural scenery in each season makes Fukigiri Falls a classic valley scenic spot in the Kanto region that is worth visiting all year round.
Harada Farm, located in Gunma Prefecture, is a popular farm combining sightseeing, fruit picking, gourmet food, and souvenirs. Boasting expansive orchards and comprehensive tourist facilities, it allows visitors to experience the rural beauty of Japan throughout the four seasons and enjoy the fresh taste of freshly picked fruit. The farm cultivates a variety of fruits seasonally, offering different fruit picking experiences in each year. Visitors can also purchase fresh produce, specialty jams, juices, and various local souvenirs, making it a popular leisure destination for families and independent travelers. Seasonal fruit picking schedule (subject to availability and orchard schedule): Strawberries: Late October – Early June; Cherries: Early June – Mid-July; Blueberries: Late June – Early August; Peaches: Mid-July – Early September; Grapes: Mid-August – Early October; Apples: Late August – Early December. Orchard experiences are optional and at your own expense. Please indicate your preference in the remarks section when placing your order so we can assist with arrangements. The fees are as follows: Fruit buffet admission: 550 yen; Fruit buffet admission + small basket picking experience (can be taken home): 1,650 yen; Fruit buffet admission + large basket picking experience (can be taken home): 2,200 yen. Fruit varieties, picking season, and opening hours may be adjusted due to weather, growing conditions, and orchard operations. Please refer to the orchard's announcement on the day for the actual experience.
Kiyotsu Gorge, located in Tokamachi City, Niigata Prefecture, is one of Japan's three great gorges, along with Kurobe Gorge and Osugitani Gorge. The Kiyotsu River, eroded over millions of years, has carved a V-shaped gorge hundreds of meters deep, with spectacular columnar jointed rock walls on both sides. It possesses immense geological and scenic value and has been designated a National Scenic Spot and Natural Monument of Japan. In 2018, in conjunction with the Echigo-Tsumari Art Triennale, architects redesigned and created "Tunnel of Light," combining the original viewing tunnel with light, water, mirrors, and spatial design. This integration of natural landscape and art installation has made it a world-renowned land art piece. The approximately 750-meter-long tunnel features several unique viewing spaces, allowing visitors to appreciate the gorge from different angles. The most famous end point, Panorama Station (Water Mirror Reflection), uses shallow water to reflect the sky and gorge, creating a visually stunning reflection. The light and shadow installations and framed viewing windows within the tunnel also allow visitors to experience the unique charm of architecture, art, and nature coexisting as they move through the tunnel.
Dragondola Ropeway and Naeba Plateau: Available from October 10, 2026 (Saturday) to November 8, 2026 (Sunday). Operating hours: 09:00-15:00 (last descent 16:00) ※ Actual operating hours may be adjusted due to weather, equipment maintenance or site conditions. Please refer to the park's announcements for the most up-to-date information.
Michi no Ekijo no Sato, located in Minakami Town, Gunma Prefecture, is an experiential tourist community themed around Japanese rural culture and artisan craftsmanship. The park integrates traditional houses, craft workshops, farms, restaurants, and souvenir shops, fully showcasing the satoyama culture and rural life of Japan, allowing visitors to experience the most authentic local culture in a natural environment. The park features several artisan workshops where visitors can freely experience traditional Japanese crafts, such as washi paper making, bamboo weaving, indigo dyeing/fabric dyeing, glassmaking, handmade soba noodle making, and seasonal cultural experiences, depending on availability.
Suwa Gorge, located in Minakami Onsen-go, Gunma Prefecture, is carved by the Tone River, Japan's longest river, over many years. Stretching approximately 3.5 kilometers, it is one of Gunma Prefecture's representative valley landscapes. The gorge is flanked by towering cliffs, with clear water meandering through it, creating a rich topographical landscape and ecological environment. The park is well-planned, featuring walking trails, viewing platforms, and numerous scenic bridges, allowing visitors to appreciate the valley's beauty from various angles. The scenery is distinct in each season: spring brings lush greenery, summer offers cool streams, autumn paints the mountains with vibrant red and golden foliage, creating a layered and picturesque valley landscape, while winter offers tranquil views of snow-covered valleys. Autumn is Suwa Gorge's most representative season for viewing autumn leaves, making it, along with Minakami Onsen, a renowned autumn tourist destination in the Kanto region. Must-see attractions: Sasafue Bridge (a suspension bridge spanning the valley, offering panoramic views of the majestic Tanigawa-dake and Tonegawa valleys), Momiji Bridge (one of the best viewpoints for enjoying the interplay of autumn foliage and the valley), Gyokuren Falls (a small waterfall hidden along the trail, with babbling brooks and tranquil scenery), and Suwakyo Bridge (about 42 meters above the valley, offering a panoramic view of the entire Suwakyo Gorge and also one of Japan's famous bungee jumping sites).
Accommodation will be at the Naeba Prince Hotel or a similar onsen hotel. The Naeba Prince Hotel, located in Naeba Kogen, Yuzawa-cho, Niigata Prefecture, is one of Japan's largest highland resort hotels, operated by the Prince Hotel Group. Situated within the Joshinko-Gogaoka National Park, surrounded by mountains, the hotel offers distinct scenery in all four seasons and is a key accommodation point for autumn foliage viewing, summer retreats, and winter skiing in the Naeba area. The hotel boasts approximately 1,200 room and features several Japanese, Western, and buffet restaurants, shops, relaxation facilities, and a natural onsen, providing a comprehensive and comfortable resort environment. In autumn, guests can enjoy the vibrant autumn foliage of the Naeba Kogen, while in winter, it connects to the Naeba Ski Resort, making it one of Japan's most representative onsen and ski resort hotels.
The Hakkaisan Ropeway will be open from April 25th (Saturday) to October 9th (Friday), 2026. Located in Minami-Uonuma City, Niigata Prefecture, Hakkaisan is one of the Echigo Three Mountains and a significant mountain landscape among Japan's 100 Famous Mountains. The Hakkaisan Ropeway connects the foot of the mountain to the summit observation deck, spanning approximately 2,217 meters with a one-way trip of about 5-7 minutes, reaching the summit station at an altitude of 1,147 meters. The summit observation deck offers a panoramic 360-degree view, overlooking the Uonuma Basin, the Echigo Three Mountains, and surrounding peaks; on clear days, one can even see the Sea of Japan and Sado Island in the distance. The park features walking trails and viewing facilities, allowing visitors to stroll through the highland forest and experience the changing mountain scenery throughout the four seasons: lush greenery and rich ecology in spring and summer; and vibrant autumn colors, making it a famous spot for viewing autumn foliage in Niigata. Hakkaisan is also a renowned location in Niigata for viewing the sea of clouds. On clear mornings or after rain, when temperature, humidity, and terrain conditions align, the Uonuma Basin often presents a spectacular sea of clouds, with layers of white mist covering the valleys and the peaks appearing to float in the clouds. This has earned it the nickname "Sky City," attracting numerous photography enthusiasts and hikers. Operating hours (for reference): 08:00–16:00 (last descent 16:30). Service frequency: approximately every 20 minutes, one-way trip approximately 7 minutes. Actual operating times may be adjusted due to weather, strong winds, or equipment maintenance; please refer to the景区 announcements for the most up-to-date information.
Purchase Notice
[Tourism Conditions]
Travel Departure and Destination: Tokyo, Gunma/Niigata
Trip duration: Two-day trip
Transportation: Chartered bus
Bus company names: Sunshine Tourism / KEY JAPAN Co., Ltd. / Ryufuji Tourism, etc.
Meals: Breakfast once, lunch once, dinner once
Accommodation: Naeba Prince Hotel or similar hot spring hotel
Minimum group size: 4
Tour leader: 1 or driver/guide (for groups of 10 or fewer)
Tour guide: 0
[Travel Planning/Implementation]
Operating Company Name: LION TRAVEL JAPAN Co., Ltd.
Address: 7th Floor, Toranomon Central Building, 1-7-1 Nishi-Shinbashi, Minato-ku, Tokyo
License Number: Tourism Authority Registered Travel Agent No. 1892
Name of travel agency: Japan Travel Agents Association (General Incorporated Company), Regular Member
Reminders
A minimum of 4 traveler(s) are required for the tour to depart. If the number of participants does not reach the minimum requirement, the tour will be canceled. An email regarding tour cancellation will be sent 14 day(s) before the departure date
In case of delays caused by traffic, weather, or other force majeure factors resulting in the cancellation of some itinerary attractions, please contact customer service. We will arrange a partial refund for you
Please arrive at the designated location 10 minute(s) before the scheduled departure time, as the tour will depart on time
Meals are not included for children under the age of 2
Please confirm the meeting time and location before departure. Arrive at the meeting point before the designated departure time and proactively seek out the LION guide to check in. The bus will depart on time, so please do not be late. If you are unable to join the tour due to lateness or other personal reasons, it will be considered as a voluntary abandonment of the booked itinerary, and no refund or rescheduling will be possible.
The itinerary's order, arrival times, and stopover times are for reference only. The itinerary will be flexibly adjusted according to the weather and on-site conditions. The actual route and content will be subject to on-site announcements. In the event of inclement weather or traffic conditions preventing visits to attractions, the tour leader reserves the right to change or cancel parts of the itinerary at any time for the safety of all participants. Participants will not be entitled to refunds or fee reductions for such reasons. On the day of the trip, due to road conditions, the stopover time at attractions may be adjusted or some attractions may be cancelled. Return arrival times may also be significantly delayed; please avoid scheduling activities on the evening of the trip. If the trip is terminated due to weather conditions or natural disasters after departure, refunds will be issued for the unfulfilled portion of the itinerary based on actual costs incurred. However, additional expenses such as return transportation costs or local accommodation costs must be borne by the traveler.
Images are for reference only; some photos containing people are AI-generated illustrations. Actual scenery, facilities, and activities may vary depending on factors such as season, weather, natural environment, shooting time, and on-site conditions. Please refer to the actual situation on the day of your visit. We apologize for the inconvenience.
Each passenger is limited to one suitcase. The maximum size of luggage that can be stored in the bus's luggage compartment is 120 cm in total length on three sides. If customers have special-sized luggage (such as golf clubs/strollers/skis/surfboards/wheelchairs/non-suitcase luggage, etc.), please indicate the type, quantity, and size of the items in the remarks when making the reservation. The bus company reserves the right to determine whether the luggage can be carried.
If you need to leave the group during the trip, please inform us in advance when registering and sign a departure consent form with the tour leader/guide on the day of the activity. Travelers who leave the group midway through the trip or do not complete the entire itinerary will be considered to have automatically forfeited the remaining itinerary and related rights, and no refunds will be given. Travelers are solely responsible for their own transportation arrangements, personal safety, and the safekeeping of their belongings after leaving the group. The organizer will not be liable for any losses or expenses incurred as a result. During free time, please pay attention to your personal safety and belongings. If you ignore warnings and an accident or loss occurs, you will be solely responsible.
The cable car may be suspended due to weather conditions (such as strong winds or dense fog), equipment maintenance, official announcements, or other force majeure events. If you are unable to ride on the day of your trip, the itinerary will be adjusted accordingly, and the included cable car ticket fee (3,000 yen per adult and 1,500 yen per child) will be refunded after the trip. We apologize that we cannot accept any other compensation arising from this.
Pick-up and drop-off area: Departure from meeting point or hotel pick-up and drop-off in central Tokyo. We provide hotel pick-up and drop-off services in major tourist areas of central Tokyo, including: Shinjuku, Shibuya, Akasaka, Roppongi, Ginza, Tokyo Station, Ueno, and Akihabara. *Final pick-up and drop-off arrangements are subject to confirmation based on hotel address.
Tour leader configuration: For groups of 10 or fewer, the driver will also act as the tour guide; for groups of 10 or more, a professional tour leader will be assigned.
Booking Instructions: For 3 travelers sharing one room, please select the 'Double or Triple Occupancy' package and enter 3 participants; we will arrange a triple room based on the number of people in the order. For one adult traveling with one child aged 5 or under who does not require a bed, please select the 'Single Occupancy' package. For one adult traveling with one child aged 6 or over who requires a bed, please select the 'Double or Triple Occupancy' package. If you have special requests such as smoking/non-smoking rooms or allergy requirements, please note them in advance. Arrangements are subject to hotel availability and cannot be guaranteed. Thank you for your understanding.
Infants under 2 years old who do not occupy a seat or bed can participate for free on the day of the event. Each adult can bring one eligible infant. If you are bringing an infant, please fill in the relevant information in the order remarks column. Children aged 2-5 years old who do not occupy a bed can purchase a child price; if a bed is required, please purchase a child price. When placing the order, please set the child's birth year to the year that qualifies for the child's eligibility and indicate the actual date of birth in the remarks column for processing purposes. Passengers aged 12 years and above are charged at the adult price. Passengers under 18 years of age cannot participate alone and must be accompanied by a passenger aged 18 years or older.
FAQ
1. What unique experiences can visitors have at Kiyotsu Gorge?
Kiyotsu Gorge, recognized as one of Japan's three great gorges, offers a distinctive blend of natural beauty and artistic integration. Visitors can explore the 'Tunnel of Light' (Kiyotsu Gorge Tunnel), an architectural artwork that frames breathtaking views of the gorge. A significant highlight is the panoramic platform at the tunnel's end, famously known as the 'Sky Mirror,' where water creates a stunning reflective surface, providing an immersive visual experience of the surrounding cliffs and flowing river.
2. Do tickets for Kiyotsu Gorge need to be reserved in advance?
For the Kiyotsu Gorge visit included as part of this two-day bus tour, your entry is typically covered within the comprehensive tour package. This means individual advance reservations for the gorge are generally not required from your side. You can conveniently book the entire bus tour through KKday, which streamlines the process by covering transportation and admission, ensuring a seamless and worry-free entry to the gorge as part of the organized itinerary.
3. How much time should be allocated for visiting Kiyotsu Gorge and its 'Tunnel of Light'?
While the exact time allocated for Kiyotsu Gorge within the tour itinerary may vary slightly, visitors typically spend approximately 1 to 1.5 hours exploring the 'Tunnel of Light' and its various artistic observation points. This duration allows ample time to fully appreciate the unique installations and natural beauty, including the famous 'Sky Mirror' at the tunnel's conclusion, and to capture memorable photographs of the stunning landscape.
4. What other major natural attractions are included in the two-day bus tour besides Kiyotsu Gorge?
Beyond Kiyotsu Gorge, the two-day bus tour features several other impressive natural wonders. You will visit Fukiware Falls, renowned as the 'Niagara of the East,' allowing for a captivating close-up experience of the powerful waterfall and its surrounding valley. The tour also includes the Hakkaisan Ropeway, which offers a 'cloud walking' experience with panoramic views of the Echigo mountains and the chance to witness a majestic sea of clouds. During the autumn season, you'll additionally experience the Dragondola, Japan's longest aerial lift, providing spectacular views of autumn foliage across mountains and valleys.
5. What kind of panoramic views and experiences can be enjoyed from the Hakkaisan Ropeway?
From the Hakkaisan Ropeway, often described as a journey to a 'Castle in the Sky,' visitors can embark on a unique 'cloud walking' experience, ascending to high-altitude panoramic viewpoints. You will be treated to expansive, sweeping views of the surrounding Echigo mountains. On clear days, there's also a chance to witness the breathtaking sight of a 'sea of clouds' stretching out beneath, offering an unparalleled perspective of the region's natural grandeur.
6. When is the optimal season to ride the Dragondola and witness the autumn leaves?
The Dragondola, Japan's longest aerial ropeway, is a special seasonal attraction specifically available during the autumn foliage season. This period is the optimal time to experience it, as the cable car glides through mountains and valleys, offering breathtaking panoramic views of the vibrant, colorful autumn leaves in their full splendor. It provides an unforgettable scenic experience, showcasing one of Japan's most spectacular seasonal transformations.
7. What accommodation and dining options are featured in the two-day highland onsen resort tour?
During this two-day tour, guests will enjoy an overnight stay at a highland onsen resort hotel. Here, you can relax and rejuvenate in natural hot springs and savor a traditional Japanese dinner set amidst the tranquil mountain scenery. For lunch, the tour includes a visit to Harada Farm, where a delicious Japanese local cuisine lunch is served. An optional add-on is available for seasonal fruit picking, allowing you to taste the freshest produce of the season.
8. What are the pickup and drop-off points for the two-day bus tour departing from Tokyo?
For convenient travel, the two-day bus tour offers flexible pickup and drop-off options in Tokyo. Guests can choose to be picked up directly from their hotel in Tokyo city, or from designated meeting points at Tokyo Station and Shinjuku Station. These arrangements are designed to ensure an accessible and comfortable start and end to your journey from the bustling city.
