Outdoors Matsunoyama Onsen Royal Backcountry Rufus Starbuck A backcountry ski tour retracing a route taken by an Imperial party in the 50s leaving from Matsunoyama Onsen Ski Area, through..
7 Activities Niigata City Marinepia Aquarium Kim Bergström Niigata City's Marinepia Aquarium is a great spot for a family friendly day out. The aquarium offers plenty of exhibits and..
Camping & Trekking Yuzawa Kogen Alpine Park Rufus Starbuck Yuzawa Kogen Alps no Sato is a botanical garden and family fun area at the top of Yuzawa Kogen Ropeway.
Activities Ikarashi Beach Bryan Baier Beaches run the length of Niigata City from just west of the Shinano River to the mouth of the Sekiya diversion channel. The westernmost..
Winter Sports Ipponsugi Ski Resort Rufus Starbuck A tiny family run ski resort right in the center of Yuzawa town within walking distance of the station. Great for families and those..
10 Outdoors Naeba Dragondola Rufus Starbuck Mid-October to mid-November is autumn color season in the mountains. The lush summer greenery gives way to a stunning display of..
6 Activities Tokamachi Ajisai Park Kim Bergström Rainy season isn't all doom and gloom - it's prime hydrangea time! The Tokamachi Ajisai Park boasts plenty of the beautiful..
Activities First Time Skiing in Yuzawa Gaurav Raja Dahal Despite being born in Nepal, I saw snow for the first time in Japan. I took my first ever skiing lessons and went skiing with Pod..