1 Chome-1-1 Hanazono, Chuo Ward, Niigata, 950-0086 MAP
↓ Click to jump to the relevant section.
| Current Weather | Annual Weather | Tourist Attractions |
| Baggage Deposit | Hotels |
Current weather and clothing
The weather information shown here is the information closest to the station in question. Please note that there may be slight differences.
Yearly temperature changes and recommended clothing
Clothing recommendations for each temperature range
When traveling in Japan with the following average temperatures, the recommended clothing is as follows:
Average temperature: 25 degrees Celsius or higher
Light and breathable clothing such as cotton T-shirts, shorts, or sundresses. Protect against heat by wearing a hat, sunglasses, and using a parasol or umbrella. Using a fan or carrying a hand-held fan may also provide relief. Be sure to hydrate frequently to avoid heat stroke.
Average temperature: 20-25 degrees Celsius
Light clothing such as cotton T-shirts, short sleeves, and skirts. Wearing a hat and sunglasses can also protect against heat.
Average temperature: 16-20 degrees Celsius
Light clothing with a light layer such as a cardigan, denim jacket, or light sweater.
Average temperature: 12-16 degrees Celsius
Light to medium clothing such as a sweater or long-sleeved shirt and pants, light jacket.
Average temperature: 8-12 degrees Celsius
Warm clothing such as a sweater, long-sleeved shirt, pants, and a coat or jacket.
Average temperature: 5-8 degrees Celsius
Warm clothing such as a sweater, long-sleeved shirt, pants, and a coat or jacket. Wearing a hat, gloves, and scarf can also provide added warmth. In Japan, specialty clothing stores such as UNIQLO sell underwear made from fibers that absorb moisture such as sweat and generate heat. For example, UNIQLO’s “HEATTECH” underwear is recommended because it is thin and lightweight, yet has high heat retention properties. Disposable heat packs sold at drugstores and convenience stores are also effective in cold weather.
Average temperature: less than 5 degrees Celsius
Warm clothing such as a sweater, long-sleeved shirt, pants, and a coat or jacket. Wearing a hat, gloves, scarf, and insulated boots can also provide added warmth. Consider layering clothing for added insulation.
Monthly changes in temperature, precipitation, and snowfall (1991~2020 average, Japan Meteorological Agency survey)
| Jan. | Feb. | Mar. | Apr. | May | Jun. | Jul. | Aug. | Sep. | Oct. | Nov. | Dec. | |
| temperature(°C) | 2.5 | 3.1 | 6.2 | 11.3 | 16.7 | 20.9 | 24.9 | 26.5 | 22.5 | 16.7 | 10.5 | 5.3 |
| precipitation(mm) | 180.9 | 115.8 | 112 | 97.2 | 94.4 | 121.1 | 222.3 | 163.4 | 151.9 | 157.7 | 203.5 | 225.9 |
| snowfall(cm) | 63 | 48 | 8 | 0 | — | — | — | — | — | — | 0 | 19 |
Winter
December
December marks the start of winter in Nigata, with the weather becoming very cold and snowy. The average temperature during this month is 5.3°C, and the average precipitation is 225.9 mm. The weather during December is typically snowy, with occasional rain showers. It is recommended to pack heavy winter clothing to stay warm and dry. Men can consider packing heavy winter jackets, snow boots, and thermal underwear, while women can consider packing wool coats, snow boots, and warm leggings.
January
The average temperature in Niigata Station in January is 2.5°C with a precipitation of 180.9mm. January is the coldest month of the year, with occasional snowfall. The temperature usually drops below freezing at night, so warm clothing is essential. A thick coat or jacket, scarf, hat, gloves, and waterproof boots are necessary to protect against the cold.
February
The average temperature in Niigata Station in February is 3.1°C, with a precipitation of 115.8mm. February is still very cold with occasional snowfall, and the weather conditions are similar to January. It is advisable to wear warm clothing, such as a heavy coat or jacket, gloves, and a hat, to protect against the cold.
Spring
March
The average temperature in Niigata Station in March is 6.2°C, with a precipitation of 112mm. March is still chilly, but the weather starts to get milder with occasional sunny days. It is still advisable to wear warm clothing, but lighter layers will be more comfortable during the day. A warm jacket or coat with layers of clothing underneath is recommended.
April
The average temperature in Niigata Station in April is 11.3°C, with a precipitation of 97.2 mm. The weather starts to get warmer, and the snow melts during this month. It is advisable to wear lighter layers of clothing as the days become milder. A light jacket or a sweater is recommended, along with comfortable shoes.
May
The average temperature in Niigata Station in May is 16.7°C, with a precipitation of 94.4 mm. May is a comfortable month, with warm days and cool nights. It is advisable to wear light clothing, such as T-shirts, light pants, and comfortable shoes. A light jacket or sweater is also recommended for cooler evenings.
Summer
June
The average temperature in Niigata Station in June is 20.9°C, with a precipitation of 121.1 mm. June is a warm and humid month, with occasional rain. It is advisable to wear light, breathable clothing such as T-shirts, shorts, and sandals. A light raincoat is also recommended for the occasional rainy days.
July
The average temperature in Niigata Station in July is 24.9°C, with a precipitation of 222.3 mm. July is the second hottest month of the year after August, with high humidity and occasional rain. It is advisable to wear light, breathable clothing such as T-shirts, shorts, and sandals. A light raincoat is also recommended for the occasional rainy days.
August
The average temperature in Niigata Station in August is 26.5°C, with a precipitation of 163.4 mm. August is similar to July, with high temperatures and humidity. It is advisable to wear light, breathable clothing such as T-shirts, shorts, and sandals. A light raincoat is also recommended for the occasional rainy days.
Autumn
September
The average temperature at Niigata Station in September is 22.5°C and the average rainfall is 151.9 mm. September’s temperature is relatively mild compared to August, but the weather is unstable due to the transition from summer to fall, with occasional rain showers. It is advisable to wear light clothing such as T-shirts and trousers and comfortable walking shoes, and a light raincoat for the occasional rainy day.
October
October is the start of autumn in Nigata, with the weather becoming cooler and crisper. The average temperature during this month is 16.7°C, and the average precipitation is 157.7 mm. The weather during October is typically sunny with a few occasional rain showers. It is recommended to bring warm and layered clothing for this month. Men can consider packing sweaters, light jackets, and long pants, while women can consider packing light wool sweaters, long pants, and light jackets.
November
November is the start of the colder season in Nigata, with the weather becoming much cooler. The average temperature during this month is 10.5°C, and the average precipitation is 203.5 mm. The weather during November is typically cloudy and rainy. It is recommended to pack warm and waterproof clothing to stay dry and comfortable. Men can consider packing heavy wool sweaters, winter coats, and boots, while women can consider packing winter coats, waterproof boots, and warm leggings.
Recommended tourist destinations
Ponshukan Niigata Station
1-96-47 Hanazono, Chuo-ku, Niigata 950-0086 Niigata Prefecture
This store sells all types of sake made in Niigata, a rice-producing region. At the sake tasting corner, visitors pay 500 yen and receive five coins in exchange. Insert one coin into the machine selling the brand you wish to taste, and a cup of sake will be served.
Imayo Tsukasa Sake Brewery
1-1 Kagamigaoka, Chuo-ku, Niigata 950-0074 Niigata Prefecture
A 15-minute walk from Niigata Station, this long-established sake brewery was established in 1767 and was built more than 100 years ago. Free tours are available and take about 30 minutes. Visitors are guided through the tasteful building and can enjoy a sake tasting at the end of the tour.
Befco Bakauke Observatory Room
5-1 Bandaijima Chuoku 31F Bandaijima Building, Niigata 950-0078 Niigata Prefecture
The observation deck is located approximately 125 meters above the ground and is the highest on the Sea of Japan side. Visitors can enjoy a 360-degree panoramic view of not only the Niigata city area, but also the Sea of Japan, Sado Island, and the Gotou mountain range.The observation deck also has a lounge, where meals and souvenirs are available.
Yahiko Shrine
2887-2 Yahiko, Yahiko-mura, Nishikanbara-gun 959-0323 Niigata Prefecture
The oldest shrine in the Niigata area, said to be over 2,400 years old. The shrine grounds are lined with ancient trees over 400 years old, creating a sacred atmosphere.
Marinepia Nihonkai
5932-445 Nishifunami-cho, Chuo-ku, Niigata 951-8101 Niigata Prefecture
The main exhibits are fish that live in the Sea of Japan. The Marine Tunnel allows visitors to view the huge tank from below and enjoy the feeling of walking on the bottom of the sea. Dolphin shows are also popular.
The Old Saito Residence
576 Nishi Ohatacho, Chuo-ku, Niigata 951-8104 Niigata Prefecture
The Old Saito Residence, a designated national scenic beauty spot and a Japanese Heritage Site, is a vast villa built in 1918 by the wealthy merchant Kijuro Saito. The garden, which takes advantage of the slope of the sand dune, is a circular garden, and in autumn, the contrast between the green pine forest and red maple trees adorns the garden.
Pia Bandai
Bandaijima, Chuo-ku, Niigata 950-0078 Niigata Prefecture
Pia Bandai is a tourist base facility where you can find a wide variety of Niigata’s specialties such as rice, sake, newly selected fish, delicious meat, and souvenirs.
Gourmet food is also available, such as conveyor-belt sushi and seafood rice bowl restaurants where you can taste local fish.
Northern Culture Museum
2-15-25 Somi, Konan-ku, Niigata 950-0205 Niigata Prefecture
The Museum of Northern Culture preserves and opens to the public the former mansion of the Ito family, a large landowner in the Echigo region. On the expansive grounds, visitors can appreciate the main house, hall, tea ceremony room, storehouse, and other buildings, as well as the beautiful Japanese garden and art collection of the successive heads of the family. Especially in November, the garden is decorated with brilliant autumn leaves, and the view of the garden from the 100-tatami-mat hall is a must-see.
Historic Relic Sado Gold Mine
1305 Shimoaikawa, Sado 952-1501 Niigata Prefecture
A historical site that tells the 400-year history of the Sado Gold and Silver Mine. Using dolls, the site faithfully recreates the mining operations of the time. There is also a guided tour of the facility, which will amaze you with its grand scale.
Rikiya Kanko Kisen (Tarai-bune ride）
1935 Ogi-cho, Sado 952-0604 Niigata Prefecture
Tarai-bune is traditional round coracle-like boat.Tarai boats were originally used to catch wakame seaweed, abalone, and turban shells. The boat is paddled by a female boatman, so you don’t have to worry. You can enjoy the beautiful coast of Niigata from the sea in a relaxed atmosphere.
Where to leave your luggage
Coin lockers are located in several places on the 2nd floor of Niigata Station.
1) East ticket gate side: Go straight through the east ticket gate and you will see a restroom. They are located next to the toilets.
2) Near CoCoRo South Wing: Exit the East ticket gate and head toward the South Exit Plaza, where you will find the CoCoRo South Wing. It is located along the passageway.
3) Near the Shinkansen West Exit: Exit through the Shinkansen West Exit ticket gate and you will find the Lost and Found Center at the end of the street. It is located next to it.
4) West ticket gate side: Go out the west ticket gate and turn right immediately. At the end of the hall, turn right and you will see lockers.
In addition to coin-operated lockers, there is also a baggage storage area.
There is a luggage service counter in “CoCoLo West N+” located at the end of the West ticket gate. It is open from 8:00 to 19:30.
Recommended hotels and inns
ANA Crowne Plaza Niigata, an IHG hotel
5-11-20 Bandai, Chuo-ku, Niigata 950-8531 Niigata Prefecture
10-minutes walk from Niigata Station
Hotel class: 4
Hotel style: Mid-range , Family
Check Rates & Availability:
>> See on Tripadvisor
>> See on Trip.com
>> See on Expedia
Hotel Okura Niigata
6-53 Kawabatacho, Chuo-ku, Niigata 951-8053 Niigata Prefecture
16-minutes walk from Niigata Station
Hotel class: 4
Hotel style: River View , Great View
Check Rates & Availability:
>> See on Tripadvisor
>> See on Trip.com
>> See on Expedia
Hotel Nikko Niigata
5-1 Bandaijima, Chuo-ku, Niigata 950-0078 Niigata Prefecture
19-minutes walk from Niigata Station
Hotel class: 4
Hotel style: Modern , River View
Check Rates & Availability:
>> See on Tripadvisor
>> See on Trip.com
>> See on Expedia
JR-East Hotel Mets Niigata
1-96-47 Hanazono, Chuo-ku, Niigata 950-0086 Niigata Prefecture
2-minutes walk from Niigata Station
Hotel class: 3
Hotel style: Mid-range , Centrally Located
Check Rates & Availability:
>> See on Tripadvisor
>> See on Trip.com
>> See on Expedia
Art Hotel Niigata Station
1-1 Sasaguchi, Chuo-ku, Niigata 950-0911 Niigata Prefecture
3-minutes walk from Niigata Station
Hotel class: 3
Hotel style: Centrally Located , Business
Check Rates & Availability:
>> See on Tripadvisor
>> See on Trip.com
>> See on Expedia
Comfort Hotel Niigata
3-3-1 Benten Chuo-ku, Niigata 950-0901 Niigata Prefecture
4-minutes walk from Niigata Station
Hotel class: 3
Hotel style: Centrally Located , Business
Check Rates & Availability:
>> See on Tripadvisor
>> See on Trip.com
>> See on Expedia
Niigata Daiichi Hotel
1-3-12 Hanazono, Chuo-ku, Niigata 950-0086 Niigata Prefecture
4-minutes walk from Niigata Station
Hotel class: 3
Hotel style: Centrally Located , Business
Check Rates & Availability:
>> See on Tripadvisor
>> See on Trip.com
>> See on Expedia
Hotel Sunroute Niigata
1-11-25 Higashiodori, Chuo-ku, Niigata 950-0087 Niigata Prefecture
5-minutes walk from Niigata Station
Hotel class: 3
Hotel style: Business , Centrally Located
Check Rates & Availability:
>> See on Tripadvisor
>> See on Trip.com
>> See on Expedia
Juraku Stay Niigata
1-6-15 Hanazono, Chuo-ku, Niigata 950-0086 Niigata Prefecture
5-minutes walk from Niigata Station
Hotel class: 3
Hotel style: Family , Business
Check Rates & Availability:
>> See on Tripadvisor
>> See on Trip.com
Dormy Inn Niigata
1-7-14 Akashi, Chuo-ku, Niigata 950-0084 Niigata Prefecture
7-minutes walk from Niigata Station
Hotel class: 3
Hotel style: Business
Check Rates & Availability:
>> See on Tripadvisor
>> See on Trip.com
>> See on Expedia
We support your itinerary planning!
Click the button to get an overview of hotel information and popular tourist routes from all over Japan featured on our site. We’ve included comprehensive details to aid in planning your trip, so please make use of it.
Comprehensive checklist before traveling to Japan
Book hotels
Book early before the hotels are fully booked
Japan offers a range of accommodations, from traditional ryokans to modern hotels. Popular platforms like Expedia and Agoda often have a wide selection, but also consider local sites like Rakuten Travel. In big cities, staying near a major train station like Tokyo's Shinjuku or Kyoto's Kyoto Station can save you a lot of commuting time. Remember that Japan's peak tourist seasons, such as cherry blossom season, can lead to booked-out accommodations, so reserve early.
>> Visit Agoda's official website
>> Visit Expedia's official website
Book flights
Compare and purchase flight tickets
When planning your trip to Japan, it's advisable to start by researching flights several months in advance. Airlines often release promotional fares, especially during off-peak seasons. Use comparison sites like Skyscanner or KAYAK to get a sense of the price range. Be flexible with your travel dates if possible; flying mid-week might be cheaper than on weekends.
>> Visit Skyscanner's official website
>> Visit KAYAK's official website
Order Japan Rail Passes for each family member
Purchase your Japan Rail Pass before departure
The Japan Rail (JR) Pass offers unlimited travel on JR trains, making it a cost-effective option for tourists. However, it's only available to foreign tourists and must be purchased *before* you arrive in Japan. Determine the areas you plan to visit; if you're traveling extensively, a nationwide pass is beneficial, but if you're only exploring a specific region, consider regional JR passes. Children under 12 get a discounted pass, so ensure you order the correct type for each family member.
>>Visit Japan Rail Pass's website
Plan your attire for Japan
Check the weather at your destination on this site
Japanese weather varies significantly by season. In summer, it's hot and humid, so breathable clothes are essential. Winters, especially in the north, can be cold, requiring warm attire. If visiting during the rainy season (June to early July), pack a good umbrella and waterproof shoes. While Japan is generally casual, certain places like temples, shrines, or upscale restaurants may require modest and neat dressing.
Reserve a pocket Wi-Fi or SIM card
SIM card or pocket Wi-Fi is required
Beyond clothes, consider packing essentials like a universal power adapter (Japan uses Type A and B sockets), portable Wi-Fi or SIM card for internet access, and any necessary medications (with a copy of the prescription).
Which is better: a SIM card or pocket Wi-Fi?
When traveling in Japan, one essential to consider is securing internet access, especially given that many locations still don't offer free Wi-Fi. To ensure you can use your smartphone throughout your trip, you'll typically have three options: (1) a SIM card, (2) pocket Wi-Fi, or (3) the roaming service provided by your mobile company. Roaming services can be quite expensive, so we often recommend using a SIM card or pocket Wi-Fi. While SIM cards tend to be more affordable than pocket Wi-Fi, they can be trickier to set up. Pocket Wi-Fi, on the other hand, can be shared among several users, making it a favorable choice for families or groups.
▼SIM card
Advantages:
Relatively affordable.
Disadvantages:
Can be time-consuming to set up initially.
May have strict data limits.
▼Pocket Wi-Fi
Advantages:
Offers substantial data allowances.
A single device can be shared among multiple users.
Easily usable with PCs as well.
Disadvantages:
Typically more expensive.
Japan's representative services
Sakura Mobile's website
▼SIM card
>>Visit Sakura Mobile's official website
>>Visit mobal's official website
▼pocket Wi-Fi
>>Visit Sakura Mobile's official website
>>Visit NINJA WiFi's official website
>>Visit Wi-Fi RENTAL Store's official website
Book local tours as needed
Pre-book your tour and have a great trip!
Local tours offer deep insights into Japan's culture and heritage. Websites like Viator or GetYourGuide offer a variety of tours, from traditional tea ceremonies to modern pop culture tours in Akihabara. Consider unique experiences like staying with monks on Mt. Koya or taking a cooking class to learn authentic Japanese dishes.
>>Visit Viator's official website
>>Visit GetYourGuide's official website
Purchase advance tickets for popular attractions
Make a reservation to avoid crowds
Attractions like Tokyo Disneyland, Universal Studios Japan, or the Studio Ghibli Museum often have long ticket queues. Buy tickets online in advance to save time. Some attractions also have timed entry, so check the specific time slots available and plan accordingly.
▼Tokyo Disney Resort
>>Visit Tokyo Disney Resort official website
>>Visit Viator's Tokyo Disneyland page
>>Visit Viator's Tokyo DisneySea page
>>Visit GetYourGuide's Tokyo Disneyland page
>>Visit GetYourGuide's Tokyo DisneySea page
▼Universal Studios Japan
>>Visit USJ official website
>>Visit Viator's USJ page
>>Visit GetYourGuide's USJ page
Buy travel insurance
insurance concept, health, life and travel insurance
It is important to be prepared for emergencies
While Japan is a safe country, travel insurance is crucial for unforeseen events like health emergencies, travel disruptions, or lost baggage. Ensure your policy covers medical expenses in Japan, as healthcare, though excellent, can be expensive.
Here we introduce online travel insurance services that are popular worldwide.
World Nomads: An online travel insurance service widely endorsed by travelers worldwide. They offer plans that cover adventurous activities and high-risk sports.
>>Visit World Nomads' official website
AIG Travel Guard: An insurance service available to travelers all over the world. They offer a wide range of options, including cancellation protection and emergency medical insurance.
>>Visit AIG Travel Guard's official website
Share your itinerary with emergency contacts
Organize your reservation information
Keep a digital and printed copy of your detailed itinerary, including hotel addresses, train schedules, and booked tours. Share this with a trusted family member or friend not traveling with you.
