6 Must-Visit Tourist Spots in Shibata City – Enjoy a Healing Journey in Every Season

Shibata City, located in northern Niigata Prefecture, is a beautiful rural town surrounded by rice fields that transform from lush green in early summer to a golden sea of ripening rice in autumn. It is also a historic city that once flourished as the castle town of the Shibata Domain.

Whether you want to be rejuvenated by nature’s changing moods or take a peaceful break immersed in history, Shibata City has much to offer. And there’s more—Shibata is also home to Tsukioka Onsen, famed for its healing hot springs. If you’re planning a visit to Shibata, here are 6 recommended tourist spots that you simply cannot miss!

1. Niōjizake (Niōji Mountain)

Niōjizake is one of Shibata City’s most spectacular scenic spots. With an elevation of 1,420 meters, it is counted among Japan’s 200 Famous Mountains and is a representative peak of Shibata. Revered as the sacred dwelling of the deity of agriculture, Niōjizake has long been an object of local faith.

At its summit, you can enjoy unbeatable panoramic views with the Iide Mountain Range to the east and the Sea of Japan to the west—attracting around 10,000 climbers every year.

The well-maintained hiking trails lead to the summit in about 4 hours, offering beautiful sights along the way, such as woodland paths and seasonal blossoms. Whether it’s the lingering snow, fresh new leaves, or vibrant autumn foliage, Niōjizake is an essential destination for anyone seeking to bask in nature’s splendor in Shibata.

2. Fujizuka-Hama Beach

If you love the sea as much as the mountains, head to Fujizuka-Hama Beach. Lined with pine groves, this beach is the most popular seaside spot in the area. Its white sandy beach and excellent water quality, combined with a shallow sea located within the Prefectural Shiunji Memorial Park, make it perfect for a day of outdoor fun. The park also features playgrounds, hot spring facilities, and a campsite—ideal for families or large groups looking to enjoy a full day of outdoor activities.

On clear days, you might even catch a glimpse of Sado Island, and in the evening, the sunset over the beach is breathtaking. Fujizuka-Hama Beach is a top recommendation for a day out in Shibata during the hot summer months.

3. Shibata Castle

A must-see when visiting Shibata is Shibata Castle, also known as “Ayame Castle.” Built in 1598, this castle is not a typical mountain fortress but a flatland castle, constructed in a convenient location for political and economic activities.

Shibata Castle is recognized as one of Japan’s 100 Fine Castles and boasts several unique features. One highlight is the three-tiered turret crowned with three distinctive shachihoko (ornamental fish) that are unique to Shibata Castle. Another is the wall constructed with tiles resembling sea cucumber patterns, originally designed to counter heavy snowfall in the region.

With only Kanazawa Castle and Shibata Castle remaining in their original forms, this castle is a rare and valuable piece of history.

Entry is free, and it is especially stunning during the cherry blossom season when the castle and its surrounding blossoms make for picture-perfect scenes.

4. Ōmon Shuzō (Formerly Ichijima Shuzō)

The history of the Ichijima family began about 400 years ago when they migrated to Shibata City. They prospered through roles in the pharmaceutical trade and sake brewing, eventually becoming one of the nation’s largest landowners. Today, the tradition is carried on by the 7th generation at Ōmon Shuzō (formerly known as Ichijima Shuzō), where over 20 types of sake are produced.

The “Experience Sake Brewery Resort Gokai-Hishi” features a tasting corner, a sake capsule machine, a premium sake tasting area with projection mapping, and other interactive exhibits. In addition to sake from Ōmon Shuzō, you can also sample local brews from other Shibata sake breweries such as Kikusu, Kinshō, and Fujinoi, as well as other Niigata region products.

5. Shimizuen Garden

Shimizuen Garden is a tourist spot in Shibata City where you can enjoy both history and nature. It was completed in 1693 as the Mizoguchi family's lower residence during the era of the fourth lord of the Shibata Domain, Shigeo. The garden was built by inviting a tea master from Edo as part of a shogunate garden, where the feudal lord and his retainers enjoyed tea ceremonies. Over time, its original role faded, and it was restored in Showa 21 to its present form. Featuring a central pond surrounded by five tea houses, Shimizuen Garden offers an atmosphere perfect for a leisurely stroll.

One of the highlights is the view of the garden from inside the building. The traditional charm of the interior and the breathtaking landscape visible from it make you forget the passage of time, inviting you to relax on the veranda indefinitely. While you may be tempted to see all the seasonal sceneries, the autumn foliage is truly unmissable. Whether you prefer active sightseeing or a peaceful retreat, Shimizuen Garden is the ideal spot for taking a refreshing break in Shibata City.

6. Ashiyu Yutabi (Foot Bath Yutabi)

“Ashiyu Yutabi” is a popular attraction where you can easily enjoy one of Shibata City’s famous hot springs, Tsukioka Onsen. Located in the heart of Tsukihime Square at Tsukioka Onsen, this free foot bath is visited by about 80,000 people annually.

The spacious foot bath is especially appealing because it’s completely free, and the quality of the hot spring water is outstanding—flowing 100% from the source of the miraculous Tsukioka Onsen. The clear, emerald-green water changes color in the sunlight, and it is even known as “the beauty bath” for its silky, moisturizing effect on the skin after a soak. With free access to such luxurious water, it’s no wonder that Ashiyu Yutabi is a hit with visitors.

At night, the foot bath is sometimes illuminated with seasonal themes, offering a perfect way to relax and unwind at the end of a day of sightseeing.

◎Summary of Recommended Tourist Spots in Shibata City

We’ve introduced 6 recommended tourist spots in Shibata City. Whether you’re drawn to the stunning natural landscapes of mountains and seas, the historical sites that tell the story of Shibata’s rich past, or the chance to enjoy local sake and hot springs, Shibata City offers something for everyone.

With many attractions available free of charge, you can truly immerse yourself in its seasonal beauty—whether you’re active and exploring outdoors, relaxing in a soothing onsen, or savoring local beverages from midday through the evening. Enjoy your journey through Shibata City and experience its charm in every season!

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6 Must-Visit Tourist Spots in Shibata City – Enjoy a Healing Journey in Every Season