Enjoy Niigata to the Fullest—even on a Rainy Day! Six Must-Visit Indoor Attractions

A rainy forecast doesn’t have to ruin your travel plans! Even if the weather isn’t on your side, Niigata offers plenty of attractions that you can enjoy regardless of rain. Instead of letting the weather dampen your spirits, why not make the most of your trip by exploring fascinating indoor destinations? Here are six excellent places in Niigata where you can have a great time, rain or shine!

1. Step Back in Time to the Tenryo Era 400 Years Ago at ‘Michi-no-Eki Echigo Izumozaki Tenryo-no-Sato’

During your sightseeing trip to Niigata, if the weather forecast predicts rain every day, consider adding Michi-no-Eki Echigo Izumozaki Tenryo-no-Sato to your itinerary. Located in Mishima District, Niigata Prefecture, this is a recommended multi-purpose leisure facility. Since it is an indoor attraction, rain won’t be a problem.

Within the premises, you’ll find the Tenryo Izumozaki Jidaikan (Izumozaki Tenryo Era Museum) and Izumozaki Petroleum Memorial Museum, making it an excellent destination for history enthusiasts on a rainy day in Niigata. Additionally, the facility houses a restaurant and a souvenir shop, so you can enjoy an entire day here without worrying about the weather.

Since this facility is also designated as a roadside station (Michi-no-Eki), you’ll find plenty of Niigata souvenirs. It’s a perfect tourist spot where you can enjoy leisure, dining, and shopping all in one place. The Tenryo Izumozaki Jidaikan features exhibits on the town’s history when Izumozaki was a Tenryo (direct land of the Tokugawa Shogunate). The life-sized replicas of historical streets and cultural artifacts will make you feel as if you've traveled back in time.

This tourist facility offers an enjoyable way to learn about history, making it a great opportunity for children to develop an interest in the past. Of course, it's also a fantastic destination for sightseeing on non-rainy days. However, please note that the facility is closed on the first Wednesday of every month (except May and August).

2. Sado Gold Mine – Once a Source of Gold and Silver

Located on Sado Island in Niigata Prefecture, Sado Gold Mine is an historic mining site where gold and silver were once extracted. After a rich gold vein was discovered in 1601, mining for these precious metals flourished, earning it the reputation as Japan’s largest gold and silver mine. Today, it remains a popular tourist destination that welcomes visitors even on rainy days.

Although the peak production of gold occurred during the Edo period, mining continued until as recently as the Heisei era. The extensive network of mine tunnels spans approximately 400 kilometers and is open to visitors as the “Doyū Mine Course.” These tunnels, which still preserve the look and facilities from the Meiji period, offer a genuine and immersive exploration experience.

Ideal for a rainy day outing, the site is sure to leave you thinking, “I’m so glad I came.” Since the tour takes place inside the tunnels, the attraction is enjoyable even when the weather is wet. Sado Gold Mine is a must-visit attraction in Niigata, offering fun and history for both adults and children.

Please note that during bad weather, you should always check the operating status of the Sado Kisen ferry service. As it is the primary transportation link for the island, even if the jetfoil service is suspended, the ferry might still run—but in very rough conditions, even the ferry may be canceled. As of November 2023, Sado Kisen is the only connection to the mainland, so it is important to stay updated on its schedule.

3. Experience Making Senbei at Senbei Kingdom

"Senbei Kingdom" is an indoor theme park in Kita Ward, Niigata City, Niigata Prefecture, where you can enjoy making senbei (rice crackers) even on rainy days. It is a popular tourist spot where both children and adults can have a great time regardless of the weather. It’s highly recommended for Niigata sightseeing, especially if you get caught in unexpected rain.

Even if the weather forecast predicts rain every day, knowing this place will ensure your trip remains enjoyable. The taste of a rice cracker you baked yourself is exceptional. You can also take it home and savor it as a memorable part of your trip. If you visit Senbei Kingdom on a rainy day, be sure to try the senbei soft serve—an unexpected combination that is surprisingly delicious and well-loved. There is also a souvenir shop where you can purchase original Senbei Kingdom rice crackers.

On rainy days, it's ideal to visit places where you can experience multiple activities in one location. You can also grab souvenirs here. Depending on the season, those visiting in their birthday month may receive discounts on the senbei-making experience or food. A valid ID is required, so if it’s your birthday month, be sure to bring one just in case. Enjoy sightseeing on a rainy day at Senbei Kingdom!

4. Enjoy Niigata City Aquarium Marinepia Nihonkai Rain or Shine

Located in Niigata City, the Niigata City Aquarium Marinepia Nihonkai is a must-visit attraction, especially on rainy days! Step inside and forget about the gloomy weather outside—this indoor oasis is highly recommended. As one of Honshu’s largest aquariums on the Sea of Japan side, it’s a destination worth visiting even on sunny days.

Home to roughly 450 species and 20,000 marine creatures, the aquarium features fascinating fish and exhibits that promise an enjoyable experience regardless of the weather. Its ambient lighting and carefully curated atmosphere make it a hit with groups of friends and couples alike. Discover the wonders of the ocean and indulge in an extraordinary experience.

Whether rain is pouring or the sun is shining, you can explore this attraction without worrying about the elements—no wet clothes or sunburns here. These features make the aquarium a top recommended spot for tourists.

5. Experience Gold Panning at Sado Nishimikawa Gold Park

If your plans for sightseeing in Niigata are dampened by unexpected rain, don’t worry—head over to Sado Nishimikawa Gold Park instead! Located in Sado, Niigata Prefecture, this popular attraction lets you experience the fun of gold panning, a classic activity in Sado.

The gold panning experience is so engaging that even adults get completely caught up in the fun. Plus, the gold you collect can be turned into various souvenirs. Imagine having a lasting memento of your delightful Niigata trip! Sado Nishimikawa Gold Park comes highly recommended. Even if rain spoils your original plans, choosing an activity you can enjoy in any weather means you won’t miss out on the fun.

In the end, we hope you’ll find yourself saying, “I’m really glad it rained!”

6. A Must-Visit for Sake Lovers! “Ponshukan”

Ponshukan is an indoor attraction located in Niigata City. It is conveniently situated right outside the west corridor ticket gate of Niigata Station’s south exit, making it an easy stop for travelers exploring Niigata by train. Since you can reach Ponshukan without stepping outside after getting off the Shinkansen, it is a great spot for sightseeing on rainy days.

"Ponshu" is another name for Japanese sake, so "Ponshukan" essentially means "Sake Hall." Here, you can try sake from every brewery in Niigata, with around 100 varieties available. As expected from Niigata, a region famous for its delicious rice, its sake—made with great attention to rice and water quality—is exceptional. Some sake can only be tasted at Ponshukan, making it a paradise for sake enthusiasts.

At Ponshukan, visitors can purchase a sake cup and tasting coins (500 yen for 5 coins, with 1 coin used per cup of sake) at the reception desk. Inside, there are dozens of different types of salt and miso, which enhance the sake tasting experience. If you find a sake you love, you can also buy it as a souvenir. Ponshukan has locations at Niigata Station, Nagaoka Station, and Echigo-Yuzawa Station. Enjoy a relaxing time indoors, rain or shine.
(Prices as of November 2023.)

◎ Summary

What do you think? We’ve just presented some of Niigata’s attractions that remain enjoyable even in the rain. With so many spots in Niigata that are delightful on rainy days, you can explore with confidence! How about paying a visit to one of our recommended rainy day locations?

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Enjoy Niigata to the Fullest—even on a Rainy Day! Six Must-Visit Indoor Attractions