Let’s head to the heart of the Chūetsu Region in Niigata Prefecture! 5 recommended spots in Kashiwazaki City

Kashiwazaki is a city facing the Sea of Japan, located in the center of Niigata Prefecture's Chūetsu region. It is surrounded by beautiful ria coastlines and rich nature symbolized by Mt. Yoneyama. With JR Shinetsu Main Line’s Kashiwazaki Station and access to the Hokuriku Expressway interchange, transportation is very convenient. In addition to the natural beauty of the sea and mountains, the city also has a historical background as a post town on the Hokkokukaidō highway. Over time, Kashiwazaki has developed a unique and refined culture and traditions.

Here, we introduce the charm of Kashiwazaki that will make you want to visit. Please use this as a reference when sightseeing in Kashiwazaki.

1. Lover’s Cape

A must-visit destination for couples touring Kashiwazaki is Lover’s Cape. Known as a sacred spot for lovers, it’s said that if two people hang a plate on the fence and ring the bell together, they will be happily united. Lover’s Cape is also located in a scenic area called “Fukuura Hakkei,” known for its beautiful coastal views, and is famous as a sunset viewing spot not to be missed when sightseeing in Kashiwazaki.

This cape is located within the marine resort “Japan Sea Fisherman’s Cape,” and from the parking lot, a walking path leads up to a stunning view of the Sea of Japan, awaiting lovers. After enjoying the scenery, head to the observation deck to attach your plate. Plates are available for purchase at the shop “Seagull.”

Ringing the bell together as a memento of your visit will make your trip to Kashiwazaki even more memorable.

2. Akasakayama Park

If you're sightseeing in Kashiwazaki during spring, be sure to visit Akasakayama Park. It is the city’s largest cherry blossom viewing spot, with 350 Somei Yoshino trees. Double-flowered and weeping cherry blossoms also bloom in abundance, making it a favorite relaxation spot for locals. Staying overnight in the city and enjoying the cherry blossoms at night is highly recommended. The orange lighting from lanterns and bonbori (traditional paper lanterns) beautifully enhances the experience. The best viewing period is typically from early to late April. Festival stalls also line the area, adding to the festive mood.

Adjacent to Akasakayama Park is a traditional Japanese garden called “Shōun Sansō.” In autumn, the fall foliage is magnificent, making it a must-visit destination when sightseeing in Kashiwazaki. Surrounded by a dense cover of trees, this garden offers a deeply traditional Japanese atmosphere and a tranquil escape. It’s also illuminated from late October to late November, perfect for an evening stroll.

Within the park grounds is also the Kimura Tea Ceremony Art Museum, where you can experience tea service with explanations inside a tea room and enjoy delicious matcha tea. A perfect resting spot when visiting Kashiwazaki for sightseeing, and cherished by the local community.

3. Yoneyama Service Area

Getting around Kashiwazaki is easiest by car, and many visitors use the expressways. A key part of any drive is the service area, and Yoneyama Service Area is not only a convenient stop during Kashiwazaki sightseeing but also a breathtaking viewpoint overlooking the Sea of Japan and Sado Island. The Yoneyama Service Area is divided by about 1 kilometer between the inbound and outbound lines, offering slightly different scenic perspectives. The sunset viewed from the outbound side is particularly beautiful and should not be missed during your visit to Kashiwazaki.

At the restaurant on the outbound side, we recommend the new Kashiwazaki specialty, “Yoneyama-style sea bream chazuke.” A light-tasting dish topped with broth made from sea bream head stock, it’s gaining popularity. The food court also offers quality local-style casual cuisine, and the outdoor grilled seafood stalls are equally enjoyable. Both facilities have shopping corners, so be sure to pick up your souvenirs here.

4. Ōmigawa Station

Ōmigawa Station, known as the closest station to the Sea of Japan, is the second station from Kashiwazaki on the JR Shinetsu Main Line. Located right next to the sea, it draws many visitors seeking an exceptional location. As an unmanned station, it’s a very simple structure with just a platform—no ticket gate, no roof. But because of this simplicity, you can lean forward just a little and find the Sea of Japan right in front of you. Situated along a beautiful ria coastline, this spot lets you feel the ocean breeze fully against your body—making it a must-see on your Kashiwazaki visit.

Just below Ōmigawa Station is Ōmigawa Beach. Only a one-minute walk away, it's practically adjacent to the station. Even outside of the summer swimming season, this small pebble and sandy beach is perfect for a peaceful stroll. Trains stop at Ōmigawa Station about once or twice an hour. Since it’s a station on the Shinetsu Main Line, it's not too difficult to include in your travel itinerary. Hop off the train, take a deep breath of sea air, and enjoy your sightseeing journey in Kashiwazaki.

5. Hara Brewery “Shusaikan”

If words like “Honjozo,” “Ginjo,” and “Daiginjo” bring you joy, then a visit to the long-established Hara Brewery’s “Shusaikan” in Niigata is a must. This is the brewery of “Koshi no Homare,” one of Niigata’s representative sake brands. The essence of sake lies in water and rice—both sourced locally from Kashiwazaki. The brewery boasts a 200-year history dating back to the Edo period. Its storage area, where the sake is aged, contains as many as 100 tanks.

At the brewery named “Wajōgura,” the sake brewing process is explained clearly, making it an ideal destination for sightseeing. Surrounded by the gentle fragrance of sake, visitors can learn about the craft of sake making. After touring the brewery, head to the tasting corner to find a sake that suits your taste. You can try a variety of types. At “Shusaikan,” the full lineup of “Koshi no Homare” is available, along with exclusive sake that can only be found here—perfect for souvenirs from your trip.

◎ Summary

We have introduced five sightseeing spots in Kashiwazaki. Whether it’s a cape perfect for creating memories as a couple, scenic spots full of natural beauty like ocean views, cherry blossoms, and autumn leaves, or even a sake brewery—Kashiwazaki offers enjoyable experiences to match any occasion.

Breathe in the fresh air of the sea, mountains, and sky while sightseeing, and when you’re hungry, fill up on local Kashiwazaki specialties. Kashiwazaki is a wonderful town where you can encounter different landscapes with every season. Use the spots introduced here as a guide to enjoy your trip to Kashiwazaki.

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Let’s head to the heart of the Chūetsu Region in Niigata Prefecture! 5 recommended spots in Kashiwazaki City