Sightseeing and Art by Train or Rental Car: Get the perfect photo to capture your memories on this tour.
Time 日帰り1日コース
Tokamachi City is a treasure trove of culture.The colorful and exciting artwork of the Echigo-Tsumari Art Triennial, held once every three years,The “Kaen-gata earthenware,” an artistic national treasure from the Jomon period (approximately 5,000 years ago).And to end the trip with a delicious meal and a relaxing hot spring bath...Let's go for it again next week! This is a weekend one-day trip plan that you can enjoy by car.
※This course is recommended from spring to autumn. It includes facilities that are closed in winter.
※Please check the opening status of the facility before heading out.
Start
Echigo Yuzawa
- 30min
Spot
Kiyotsu Gorge, one of the best photo spots in Japan!
"You can't miss this view. This is one of the most photogenic spots around. The Kiyotsu Gorge is one of Japan's top three great natural gorges. The tunnel has been renovated into a magnificent space for contemporary art. We invite you to experience this extraordinary world surrounded by the powerful Kiyotsu River.
Spot
Kiyotsu Gorge Entrance
Near the entrance to the gorge is a unique rest stop. The first floor has a cafe where you can get a good cup of coffee, and the second floor is a foot path where you can soothe your feet and relax.
Spot
Sasagoya (souvenir shop)
A souvenir shop across from the gorge.
In summertime, we recommend in particular getting ramune or ice cream!
- 15min
Spot
"For Lots of Lost Windows," an Echigo-Tsumari Art Triennale Original Artwork
After you have finished your photoshoot at "For Lots of Lost Windows," head on over to the nearby Kuramata Bridge. A replica of the famed "kaengata doki," or "flame-style pottery," the National Treasure of Tokamachi, is on a pedestal framed by gorgeous scenery all around, making for the perfect photo. Try finding the best angle to shoot from!
- 20min
Spot
Sobanosato Abuzaka
"This soba restaurant is located in the middle of a large patch of fields.
They specialize in hegisoba made of their own buckwheat flour along with a buffet chock-full of homegrown produce and seasonal offerings.
The restaurant is stylish and offers a great view of the scenery. "
- 10min
Spot
Museum of Picture Book Art
One of the pinnacles of the Echigo-Tsumari Art Triennale. This whimsical museum is also host to a café and a goat playground in the front!
- 10min
Spot
Rental car drop-off (if you use Toyota Rentacar, you can pick-up/drop-off at either Tokamachi OR Yuzawa!)
- 10min（From Tokamachi st）
Spot
Michnoeki Crossten & Kinare
This is your one-stop-shop for Tokamachi souvenirs. Find the perfect gift for your loved ones back home! This building is also home to a Guinness World Record for the biggest set of “tsurushi-hina,” or handmade dolls hung from the ceiling.
Spot
Akashi no Yu
Kinare, the contemporary art museum, is the headquarters of the Echigo-Tsumari Art Triennale. The first floor offers a public bath that changes with the seasons, which we highly recommend. There is a napping room and other amenities available to refresh yourself on your trip.
Spot
IKOTE
"This stylish restaurant and café is inside a large wooden building that is a work of art in itself.
They have many special offerings using local and seasonal ingredients that even picky eaters can enjoy. "
- 15min
Goal
Tokamachi Station
Make sure to check the train times so you don't miss your transfer!