Things To Do
in Arai
Arai is a small mountain-and-onsen area in Myōkō (Niigata Prefecture), known for heavy winter snow, restorative hot springs and a relaxed regional atmosphere. The district is a base for the Arai Ski Resort and easy access to Mount Myōkō, with a mix of traditional ryokan, local seafood and rice-farming landscapes. Visitors come for winter sports, hot-spring relaxation and scenic photography year-round, while the town itself retains a quiet, local feel outside peak season.
Arai combines rural Japanese charm with outdoor adventure and close proximity to regional transport hubs like Joetsu-Myōkō Station.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Arrive at Arai Station where the picturesque landscape welcomes you. Take a leisurely stroll along the scenic coastline to acclimate to the serene environment. Enjoy a traditional Japanese breakfast at a local café, preparing for the adventures ahead.
Explore the Arai Seaside Park, where you can appreciate the beautiful ocean views and enjoy a relaxed picnic. Engage in water activities like kayaking or stand-up paddleboarding along the tranquil waters. Capture stunning photographs of the intricate rock formations that line the coast.
Dine at a local izakaya, immersing yourself in the delightful flavors of Arai's seafood. Experience the vibrant atmosphere as locals gather for dinner and drinks. End the evening with a peaceful walk along the beach, under a blanket of stars.
Begin your day by visiting the historic Arai Shrine, known for its beautiful architecture and tranquil surroundings. Participate in a traditional Shinto ritual, gaining insight into local spiritual practices. Take in the serene atmosphere and reflect on the history of this sacred site.
Head to the nearby Arai Town Museum to learn about the region's rich cultural heritage. Engage with interactive exhibits showcasing local art, crafts, and history. Afterward, enjoy lunch at a nearby restaurant, savoring local specialties like ramen.
Attend a local festival or cultural performance if available, immersing yourself in the community's traditions. Relish the food stalls that offer tempting treats while enjoying the lively ambiance. Wind down your day at a local onsen, soaking in the relaxing hot springs.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍜Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $8-12 |
| 🍣Three-course meal at mid-range restaurant | $25-45 |
| ☕Coffee or tea at a café | $3-6 |
| 🛏️Ryokan or hotel (per night) | $80-250 |
| 🎿Ski pass (day) | $40-70 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Excellent winter sports and reliable powder snow.
- Relaxing onsen culture and scenic mountain landscapes.
- High-quality local rice, seafood and regional sake.
- Less crowded and more authentic than major tourist hubs.
- Limited nightlife and cultural attractions compared with big cities.
- Transport can be sparse outside peak seasons — reliance on buses or rental cars.
- Harsh winter weather can cause travel disruptions.
- Fewer vegetarian/vegan-specific dining options in rural areas.
- "こんにちは (Konnichiwa)" - Hello / Good afternoon
- "ありがとうございます (Arigatō gozaimasu)" - Thank you (polite)
- "すみません (Sumimasen)" - Excuse me / Sorry / Thank you (to get attention)
- "お風呂はどこですか？ (Ofuro wa doko desu ka?)" - Where is the bath/onsen?
- "英語を話せますか？ (Eigo o hanasemasu ka?)" - Do you speak English?
Places to Visit in Arai
Visit one of these nice places.
Traditional ryokan, steam and lantern-lit alleys are atmospheric at dusk and in winter with snow-covered roofs.
Panoramic mountain vistas, groomed runs and tree-lined valleys provide dramatic winter and autumn shots.
Lookouts on approaches to Mount Myōkō provide sweeping views of the peak, forests and rice terraces — excellent at sunrise.
Reflection shots, boat scenes and seasonal mist make the lake an attractive location year-round (especially autumn and early spring).
Golden rice fields in autumn and green paddies in summer offer classic rural-Japan compositions.
Food in Arai
Arai Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Niigata’s famous polished rice — expect impeccable texture; enjoyed with simple dishes or as the star of a meal. Found everywhere, often highlighted in ryokan breakfasts and set meals.
Must-Try!
Locally caught fish, squid and shellfish served raw or grilled when in season; best sampled at local seafood restaurants and ryokan dinners.
Salted/fermented mackerel or small fish preserved for flavor and longevity — a regional specialty served as a side with rice or in bento shops.
Leafy vegetable pickles typical of Niigata, great as palate cleansers and available at markets and set meals.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Small roadside stands and weekend markets sell seasonal mountain vegetables, pickles and rice; try nozawana pickles and freshly roasted chestnuts when in season.
During ski season you’ll find stalls near lifts selling hot snacks, oden and grilled corn — perfect for warming up between runs.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Wash thoroughly before entering baths, no swimsuits, and be aware many baths ban visible tattoos. Keep towels out of the bath water and speak quietly.
Remove shoes when entering homes, some ryokan and small temples; look for shoe racks or a genkan (entry area).
Keep noise low on trains, buses and in small towns; phone calls are discouraged on public transport.
A bow and simple Japanese phrases (hello, thank you) are appreciated; be patient and respectful when language barriers occur.
Safety
Tipping in Arai
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is not customary in Japan and can confuse service staff; excellent service is included in prices. If you wish to express gratitude, a small gift or a boxed souvenir is more culturally appropriate than cash.
Cash (yen) is still king in rural areas and many ryokan, small restaurants and market stalls are cash-only. ATMs at 7-Eleven and post offices accept international cards; major cards accepted at larger hotels and some shops. IC transit cards (Suica/Pasmo) work in many cities but may have limited use in remote areas.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Heavy snowfall and excellent ski/snowboard conditions from December to March; many lifts operate and the town fills with winter tourists. Prepare for cold temperatures, necessary winter gear and occasional road closures; onsen bathing after skiing is a highlight.
Late snowmelt and cherry blossoms in lower elevations; trails reopen and wildflowers appear — variable weather, with cool mornings and milder afternoons.
Warm and humid in lowlands but comfortably cool in the mountains; ideal for hiking, cycling and lake activities. Expect more insects and occasional afternoon rain.
Clear skies, crisp air and vibrant foliage from late September to November; an excellent time for photography and quieter hikes before heavy snow.
Arai at Night
Hiking in Arai
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Multiple routes to the summit and alpine ridges offering panoramic views; trails range from moderate to strenuous and are best attempted in summer/autumn with proper gear.
Accessible hikes with rewarding vistas, alpine flowers in season and family-friendly loop trails around the mountain.
Gentler walks suitable for all levels with birdwatching, boat views and peaceful lakeside scenery; ideal in spring and autumn.
Airports
How to reach Arai by plane.
Approximately 1.5–2.5 hours by car or train/shuttle depending on connections; regional flights connect Niigata to Tokyo and some domestic destinations. From Niigata take trains or buses to Joetsu-Myōkō then local transport to Arai.
Accessible by longer train or car journeys (2.5–4+ hours) and used as alternative gateways for Hokuriku visitors; useful when combining travel with Kanazawa/Toyama itineraries.
Major international gateways; high-speed rail (Shinkansen) to Joetsu-Myōkō provides a convenient land route taking around 2–4 hours depending on connections — then a local transfer to Arai.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Predominantly older, long-term residents involved in farming, hospitality and small businesses; communities are close-knit and welcoming.
Winter visitors include domestic skiers and international tourists; summer sees hikers and families seeking cool mountain air.
Hospitality workers often come from surrounding areas and provide the primary service workforce for tourism seasons.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
The dominant seasonal sport — attracts domestic and international visitors for downhill and powder riding.
Summer and autumn see many hikers and trail runners on mountains like Myōkō and Kurohime.
Lake and river fishing are popular leisure activities in the warmer months.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Arai.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Vegetarian options are limited but possible — request vegetable set meals, tempura, tofu dishes and rice. Explain restrictions clearly (or use a written card in Japanese) as many broths are fish-based.
Vegan food is more difficult; bring snacks and use larger towns (Joetsu/Niigata) for more restaurant choices. Communicate 'bīgān' conditions ahead or choose simple rice/vegetable dishes and avoid dashi (fish stock).
Soy sauce and miso contain gluten — some rice-based dishes are safe but cross-contamination is possible. Pack snacks and consult staff when ordering.