Tour Niigata’s Power Spots in Yahiko Village! 5 Must-Visit Destinations

Yahiko Village (Yahiko-mura) in Niigata Prefecture is surrounded by nature. Yahiko Mountain, Yahiko Shrine, and its hot springs are among the most popular tourist attractions. Of these, Yahiko Shrine is famous nationwide as a spiritual “power spot.” Its spiritual energy is said to be the strongest in all of Niigata Prefecture, drawing many worshippers who come to receive its blessings.
In addition to Yahiko Shrine, the village is home to other scenic and spiritually rich destinations. Here are some recommended tourist spots in Yahiko Village, Niigata Prefecture.

1. A Popular Power Spot! “Yahiko Shrine”

Yahiko Village is home to several famous power spots that attract numerous tourists, but the most renowned is “Yahiko Shrine” (彌彦神社), locally known as “Oyahiko-sama.” Here’s a closer look at this popular spiritual site.

◆ Yahiko Shrine

Located at the foot of Mt. Yahiko, Yahiko Shrine has long been affectionately called “Oyahiko-sama.” It is considered the most powerful spiritual spot in the village. In 2008, its worship hall was designated as a Registered Tangible Cultural Property by the Japanese government.
At the entrance to the shrine stands the “First Torii Gate,” the first landmark visitors see. If you look closely, you’ll notice that the main pillars of the gate are elevated about 6 cm above the ground to prevent decay from snow and moisture.
Beyond the First Torii lies the “Fireball Stone,” also known as the “Heavy or Light Stone.” It is said that if the stone feels light and you can lift it, your wish will come true; if it feels heavy and you cannot lift it, your wish will not be granted. Visitors are encouraged to try lifting it.
The last gate before entering the inner shrine is the “Zuishinmon Gate,” flanked by elegantly styled guardian lion-dogs (komainu) designated as a Registered Tangible Cultural Property. When visiting, be sure to take a closer look at these statues.

◆ Auxiliary and Sub-Shrines

Within the grounds of Yahiko Shrine, there are eight auxiliary and sub-shrines. The auxiliary shrines enshrine the descendants of the deities of Yahiko Shrine.
The sight of these eight shrines standing in a row is solemn and beautiful, making them popular as power spots as well. Among them, the Tokohashira Shrine, designated as an Important Cultural Property, is especially noteworthy.

2. Experience Art in the Forest at “Yahiko Hill Museum of Art”

The Yahiko Hill Museum of Art stands on Yahiko Hill, offering a panoramic view of Mt. Yahiko. It first opened in 1987 and underwent a renewal in 2008. The museum primarily holds special exhibitions featuring works by artists active in Niigata Prefecture. Its exhibits span a wide range of genres, including Japanese painting, Western painting, crafts, calligraphy, and woodblock prints, allowing visitors to immerse themselves in the world of talented creators. It is a must-visit tourist spot in Yahiko Village for art enthusiasts.
From the lounge, visitors can enjoy the seasonal beauty of Mt. Yahiko—cherry blossoms in spring, lush greenery in summer, colorful autumn leaves, and snow-covered landscapes in winter—making it a perfect place to spend a relaxing and soothing time during your trip.

3. Famous for Its Autumn Foliage! Yahiko Park

Yahiko Park is a popular sightseeing spot in Yahiko Village, well-known for both its autumn foliage and cherry blossoms. Inside Yahiko Park, you’ll find Kengetsu Bridge, which is a favorite photography location, as well as the “Yu Shrine,” another popular power spot. The park is full of places in Yahiko Village that are both scenic and spiritually significant.
Momiji Valley offers breathtaking scenery during the autumn foliage season. One of the most highly recommended spots is Kengetsu Bridge. This bridge is a reproduction of an old wooden bridge, and the view of Momiji Valley from here is full of charm. If you visit Yahiko Park during autumn, be sure to also stop by the lava tunnel located just before Momiji Valley. Looking through the tunnel, you’ll be greeted with a magnificent view of the autumn leaves.
The park is also home to beautiful flowers that bloom in every season, so no matter when you visit, you’ll enjoy a wonderful time.
Yahiko Park is a nature-rich sightseeing spot in Yahiko Village. Make sure to visit and enjoy its seasonal scenery.

4. A Panoramic View of the Echigo Plain! Yahiko Mountain Ropeway

The Yahiko Mountain Ropeway connects the base of Mount Yahiko to its summit in about five minutes. From the ropeway, you can see the Echigo Plain and the mountain ranges beyond, offering a landscape full of natural beauty. This stunning view makes the ropeway a must-visit spot when traveling to Yahiko Village.
At the summit, there is an observation restaurant where you can enjoy a meal while gazing at the Sea of Japan. The menu features local specialties such as Echigo Mochi Pork Curry and Yahiko Ramen, making it a great place to taste Yahiko Village’s flavors. When you visit the Yahiko Mountain Ropeway, be sure to also stop by the observation resta

5. Enjoyable Even for a Day Trip! Yahiko Onsen Town

Yahiko Onsen Town has two hot spring sources: Sakuraikei Onsen and Yu Shrine Onsen, each with its own characteristics. There are many lodging facilities as well as places where you can enjoy Yahiko’s hot springs on a day trip.
“Sakura no Yu” is a day-use facility where adults can enter for 1,000 yen and children for 570 yen. The admission fee includes a towel, bath towel, and lounge wear, making it easy to drop by. The baths use free-flowing hot spring water directly from the Sakuraikei Onsen source, known for being gentle on the skin. The facility also has a footbath terrace and a rest area, making it a great place to take a break while sightseeing in Yahiko Village.
(Prices as of December 2016)

◎ Summary

Yahiko Village in Niigata Prefecture is home to many nature-rich sightseeing spots. The entirety of Mount Yahiko, where Yahiko Shrine is located, is popular as a power spot. Learning about the shrine’s stories and trivia before visiting will make your trip even more enjoyable.
In addition to Yahiko Shrine, there are numerous other nature-filled attractions and hot spring facilities perfect for day trips. Be sure to visit Yahiko Village and experience its charms for yourself.

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Tour Niigata’s Power Spots in Yahiko Village! 5 Must-Visit Destinations