Things To Do
in Kashiwazaki

Early-morning market where fishermen and wholesalers sell the afternoon’s catch; try fresh sashimi, grilled street skewers and seafood bento boxes. Times vary — arrive in the morning for best selection.

During festivals you’ll find yatai (food stalls) selling items like takoyaki, yakitori and regional fried seafood snacks along the waterfront and shrine areas.

Keep voices low on public transport and in quiet public spaces; avoid loud phone conversations. Respect local peace, especially in residential and shrine areas.

When entering homes, some ryokan and traditional places, remove shoes at the genkan (entryway) and wear provided slippers.

Follow local rules at shrines (bow at torii, cleanse hands/mouth if appropriate) and observe photography signage or requests during ritual events.

Use simple polite phrases (arigatou, onegaishimasu) and show appreciation; a small effort with Japanese is warmly received.

Tipping is not customary in Japan and can sometimes be refused; excellent service is considered standard. For guided tours or special personalized service, a small gift or written thank-you is more culturally appropriate than cash tipping.

Cash (Japanese yen) remains widely used in Kashiwazaki, especially at markets, small shops and rural eateries. Major cards are accepted at larger restaurants and hotels, but bring cash as backup. IC transit cards (Suica/Pasmo) and e-money are increasingly supported but coverage may be spotty in smaller establishments.

Mild temperatures and the start of rice-field work; cherry blossoms may bloom in late March–April in lower elevations. Expect variable weather and occasional windy days; great time for festivals and early-season seafood.

Warm and humid with long daylight; beaches are pleasant and summer festivals light up the town. Bring sun protection and expect higher humidity; typhoon season (late summer) can bring heavy rain—monitor forecasts.

Crisp air and clear skies with colorful foliage in nearby hills; harvest season brings fresh produce and culinary events. Cooler evenings make seaside walks comfortable.

Cold with frequent snow, especially inland and in the mountains; coastal areas are milder but still see snowfall. Winter seafood is excellent; roads can be slippery, so plan for winter driving and check public transport schedules.

Short coastal trails and cliffside walks near Kashiwazaki provide easy hikes with sea views — suitable for half-day excursions and photography.

A nearby mountain (accessible from Niigata-area transport) with well-marked trails, a shrine at the base and panoramic views; suitable for moderate hikes and autumn foliage viewing.

If you take the ferry to Sado, there are several day-hike options on the island including coastal routes and Mt. Kinpoku for a more rugged experience — allow a full day for travel and hiking.

Higher-elevation hikes in the Myoko region offer alpine scenery and are reachable by car from Kashiwazaki for those wanting more challenging trails and seasonal snow activities.