Experience the Essence of Japan at Iwamuro Onsen in Niigata
Recognized for its black hot springs, Iwamuro Onsen is celebrated for its exceptional high-quality hot springs and charming inns. We will introduce nearby attractions and dining options that can be easily explored during your visit.
Echigo Ichinomiya Yahiko Shrine is one of the best spiritual hotspots in the prefecture. It is conveniently situated a 10-minute drive from Iwamuro Onsen.
If you are looking for a special souvenir from Tsubame-Sanjo, visit the Tojiro Open Factory, a renowned manufacturer of kitchen knives. Take a factory tour to learn about the centuries-old craft of knifemaking, and shop for rare models unavailable elsewhere.
If you are looking for food, be sure to make a reservation at Kaiseki Shusekian, a one-star Michelin restaurant located in the hot spring resort!
Immerse yourself in Japanese culture and tradition by soaking in the hot springs, visiting a shrine, enjoying kaiseki cuisine, and learning about the spirit of traditional craftsmanship. You'll be amazed at how wonderful Japan really is!
Yahiko Shrine, One of Niigata Prefecture’s Most Famous Spiritual Hotspots
Over 2400 years old, Echigo Ichinomiya Yahiko Shrine is a historical shrine with spacious grounds of over 130,000㎡ filled with trees and offering beautiful views throughout the changing seasons.
The shrine has a collection of remarkable halls, including a grand worship hall, the Tama-no-hashi Bridge, where gods are said to cross over from one side to another, the Omokaru-no-ishi Stone that foretells fortune based on its weight when lifted, and a sacred tree that is said to be 1,000 years old.
The shrine also hosts more than 400 festivals and numerous Shinto rituals annually. We recommend planning your visit to coincide with the festivals open to the public. ♪
Get a Behind-The-Scenes Tour of the Knife-Making Process at Tojiro Open Factory
Tojiro, a kitchen knife manufacturer known for its both traditional and innovative techniques based in Tsubame-Sanjo, Niigata, an area famous for its craftsmanship. The Tojiro Open Factory is a must-visit for anyone interested in learning more about the brand's history and craftsmanship!
This factory tour facility stands as one of Japan's finest, providing a captivating glimpse into the process of polishing mass-produced items as well as the meticulous craftsmanship behind handmade products. The tour area is not partitioned off, offering an immersive experience, allowing visitors to directly feel the heat and sounds of the factory while observing the skilled artisans at work!
After the tour, visitors can shop for rare products, such as limited edition products and overseas models that can only be purchased here.
Savor Seasonal Dishes at a One-Star Michelin Restaurant, Kaiseki Shusekian
Kaiseki Shusekian is a one-star Michelin Japanese restaurant that is run by brothers who were trained at the famous restaurant Wako in Mejiro, Tokyo.
They only offer authentic kaiseki cuisine, accompanied by delightful sweets and green tea. Marvel at the chefs' meticulous attention to detail and refined skills, as well as the stunning presentation and exquisite flavors of each dish.