Indulge in the Exquisite Opulence of a Historic Mansion in Niigata's Wealthy Heritage
Niigata's Hidden Gem: Northern Culture Museum Tour
Fancy something off the beaten path in Japan? Look no further than the Northern Culture Museum in Niigata Prefecture! Just a stone's throw away from Tokyo via Shinkansen, this less-explored jewel offers an authentic glimpse into Japan's traditional way of life.
All about Niigata Prefecture
Known for its succulent rice, renowned sake breweries, and picturesque nature, Niigata is a prefecture brimming with scrumptious food, winter ski resorts, and serene summer retreats. Here, you can savor traditional Japanese buckwheat noodles, Hegi Soba, mouthwatering seafood, unique Noppe stew, and dishes made with the finest local rice. In the winter, experience Niigata's winter wonderland with a host of ski resorts. Come summertime, be blown away by the stunning nature spots, hit the beaches, or revel in the famous festivals across the prefecture!
Welcome to the Northern Culture Museum
Originally the residence of the Ito family, dating back to 1756, this museum is a remarkable feat of Edo-period craftsmanship. situate on 29,200 square meters of land and boasting 65 exquisite rooms, the museum houses over 6,000 antiquesfrom Aizu, Yamagata, Akita, and beyond. Post WWII, the Ito family preserved this historic landmark, transforming it into a private museum open to the public, thanks to the help of an American Occupation Forces alumnus, Ralph Wright. The 8th head of the family even entertained notable figures like the Kennedy's, members of the Imperial family, and G8 Summit Labor Ministers here!
Your Exclusive Tour
Your experience kicks off at Niigata Station, where you'll meet Mr. Sato, your seasoned 50-year museum guide, who's as friendly as he is knowledgeable. As you venture through the museum, you'll marvel at historical artifacts like pottery, paintings, and priceless Japanese antiques, all housed in a traditional Japanese building that has stoically weathered numerous natural disasters. In awe-inspiring tatami rooms, boasting stunning views of the Japanese garden (landscaped by the same genius behind Ginkakuji's garden in Kyoto), you'll indulge in a feast fit for royalty, showcasing Niigata's freshest local ingredients.
Experience Mochitsuki
One of the tour highlights is the mochi-pounding demonstration, which is usually reserved for New Year's celebrations. Here, you'll learn to pound rice into mochi using wooden mallets in a unique three-person technique. Don't be fooled – it's more challenging than it looks! After the demonstration, you'll have a go at it yourself, proving that anyone can be a mochi-master with practice!
Discover Sanrakutei
Marvel at Sanrakutei, a one-of-a-kind triangular building designed by the 6th head of the household at the age of 21. Patterned throughout with triangles, this structure will leave you feeling a tad disoriented, earning it the reputation of an unsettling building. Inside, enjoy a taste of the mochi you made earlier, paired with green tea, as you soak in the incredible atmosphere.
How to Book
To book your exclusive tour of the Northern Culture Museum, visit our dedicated booking page!
Why settle for the usual tourist spots when Japan has hidden gems like Niigata's Northern Culture Museum waiting to be discovered? Book your tour today!
Our Website: Tours
Curious to explore more of Japan? Check out our other tour offerings:
- Our website: Tokyo Food and Drink Tour
- Our website: Tokyo Walking Tour
- Our website: Mt. Fuji Day Trip
- Our website: Kyoto Private Full Day Tour
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- The Northern Culture Museum, a hidden gem in Niigata Prefecture, offers an authentic peek into Japan's traditional lifestyle, just a quick Shinkansen ride from Tokyo.
- Niigata is known for its delicious food, including buckwheat noodles, seafood, and local rice dishes, as well as winter ski resorts and serene summer retreats.
- The museum, originally the residence of the Ito family since 1756, showcases over 6,000 antiques from Aizu, Yamagata, Akita, and more, housed in a traditional Japanese building that has survived numerous natural disasters.
- During the museum tour, guests are treated to a traditional feast, a mochi-pounding demonstration, and a visit to Sanrakutei, a unique triangular building.
- For travelers seeking more of Japan's hidden gems, there are tours available for Tokyo's food scene, Tokyo's historical sites, Mt. Fuji, and Kyoto.
- To stay updated on the latest travel tips, experiences, and attractions in Japan, subscribe to our newsletter for weekly updates on Japan's lifestyle, culture, and travel.
