Tokamachi Sightseeing Model Course | Kiyotsu Gorge, Bijinbayashi & Matsunoyama Onsen

Tokamachi City in Niigata Prefecture offers a rich day-trip experience, featuring the world-famous Kiyotsu Gorge Tunnel, the enchanting beech forest of Bijinbayashi, and the healing hot springs of Matsunoyama Onsen.

Morning | Start from Tokamachi Station & the Spectacular Views of Kiyotsu Gorge

Sightseeing in Tokamachi begins at Tokamachi Station. After departing at 10:00 a.m. and completing your rental car pickup, you’ll head toward Kiyotsu Gorge. After a scenic 20-minute drive, you’ll arrive at the Kiyotsu Gorge Tunnel, home to the immersive light installation known as the Tunnel of Light. After taking in the stunning play of light, relax at the foot bath café inside the entrance building, where you can enjoy the view of the gorge through the large windows. A wide selection of souvenirs are also available, making it a perfect place to pick up a memorable gift from your trip.

10:00 a.m. | Depart Tokamachi Station & Pick Up Your Rental Car

Once you arrive at Tokamachi Station, your first step is to complete the rental car process. Several reservation-based rental car companies operate around the station, and many offer shuttle service from Tokamachi Station. Booking in advance ensures a smooth departure. Once the paperwork is complete, hop into your car and begin your journey. A car is the best way to explore Tokamachi’s beautiful natural landscapes, so enjoy the drive as you head toward your destination. Before setting off, it’s a good idea to check your sightseeing spots and driving route in advance. Kiyotsu Gorge is one of the area’s highlights and a must-visit spot for its breathtaking scenery. Along the way, take in the changing scenery and build anticipation for what’s ahead. Now, your journey into the charm of Tokamachi begins.

10:20 a.m. | Arrive at Kiyotsu Gorge Tunnel & Experience the Tunnel of Light

After a 20–30 minute drive from Tokamachi Station (travel time may vary depending on traffic and route), you will arrive at the entrance of Kiyotsu Gorge Tunnel. This impressive 750-meter-long tunnel features a stunning light installation known as the Tunnel of Light. As you walk through the tunnel, an otherworldly space filled with light unfolds before you, captivating every visitor. Halfway through, an observation platform offers sweeping views of the gorge and serves as a perfect photo spot.

Inside the tunnel, you can experience the beauty of nature throughout the seasons, with each visit revealing a different atmosphere. In autumn, the surrounding mountains are painted in vivid colors, creating a landscape that feels like a living painting. After passing through the tunnel, you can also take a walk through the gorge area, refreshing your mind and body in nature.

After enjoying these spectacular views, it’s a good idea to take a short break before heading to the next destination. A footbath is available at the Kiyotsu Gorge entrance, allowing you to relax and soothe travel fatigue while enjoying the natural surroundings. Before moving on, be sure to fully appreciate the beauty and atmosphere of this remarkable tunnel.

11:50 a.m. | Kiyotsu Gorge Entrance | Footbath & Souvenir Break

After taking in the breathtaking scenery of Kiyotsu Gorge, a relaxing break at the entrance area is a must. At the second-floor footbath café, you can soak your feet while gazing out at the gorge through large windows. This indoor space offers panoramic views of the surrounding nature, creating a peaceful setting where warm water and scenery come together to help you unwind.

The Kiyotsu Gorge entrance also features shops selling local specialties and souvenirs. This is a great opportunity to find Niigata products and crafts unique to Tokamachi. Local rice, sake, and handmade items make wonderful keepsakes that capture memories of your visit. Be sure to stop by during your sightseeing break.

A footbath and souvenir stop at the Kiyotsu Gorge entrance provides valuable time to relax and rediscover local charm before continuing your journey. Take this moment to refresh yourself before heading to the next destination.

Lunch & Scenic Drive

After finishing your morning sightseeing, it’s time to enjoy a delicious lunch followed by a scenic drive. At 12:30 p.m., stop by the onigiri shop at Uonuma Kuratomo Farm Onigiri Shop, where you can taste rice balls made with fresh local ingredients. With a wide variety of onigiri available, choosing just one may be a pleasant challenge.

After lunch, head to the Uonuma Skyline at 1:20 p.m. and enjoy breathtaking views from the Hakka Pass Observation Deck. On clear days, you’ll be rewarded with sweeping views of the Uonuma Basin, surrounding mountains, and flowing rivers—an experience that feels truly refreshing. Take in the beauty of nature as you continue on to your next destination.

12:30 p.m. | Uonuma Kuratomo Farm Onigiri & Rice Shop | Lunch

Enjoying a lunch made with local ingredients is one of the highlights of any trip. This onigiri shop at Uonuma Kuratomo Farm is especially recommended. The rice balls are made with freshly harvested Niigata rice grown in the region’s rich natural environment. Simple yet deeply flavorful, each onigiri showcases the quality of the rice itself. Seasonal fillings made with local ingredients offer something new to discover with every visit.

The shop is located in a peaceful rural area surrounded by rice fields, allowing you to enjoy your meal while taking in the scenery. With its warm, homey atmosphere, the shop is also popular among locals. In addition to onigiri, you’ll find side dishes made with local vegetables and handmade pickles, all praised for their freshness and taste.

After lunch, head toward the Uonuma Skyline. With your energy recharged by a satisfying meal, you’ll be ready to enjoy the upcoming scenic drive.

1:20 p.m. | Uonuma Skyline | River Viewpoint Scenery

The Uonuma Skyline is a mountain drive route located in Minamiuonuma City and is easily accessible by car from the Tokamachi area. As you drive along this scenic road, you’ll be surrounded by beautiful mountains and expansive nature, with a refreshing breeze along the way. Viewpoints overlooking the river are particularly popular highlights of the route, offering seasonal landscapes throughout the year.

From these observation spots, you can enjoy striking contrasts between the Uonogawa River and the surrounding mountains. In autumn, vibrant fall foliage adds even more beauty to the scenery. It’s also an ideal place for photography, allowing you to capture memorable moments from your journey.

Take time to relax and enjoy the peaceful atmosphere as you pause at the viewpoints. When driving the Uonuma Skyline, be sure to stop by a river-view observation spot and fully appreciate the spectacular scenery.

Afternoon | Art & Nature Walk

The afternoon is the perfect time to experience Tokamachi’s blend of nature and art. Start by heading to Bijinbayashi, a beautiful beech forest known for its serene and dreamlike atmosphere. Walking through the forest, you’ll be surrounded by soft light and quiet greenery, offering a peaceful moment to connect with nature.

Next, visit For Lots of Lost Windows, an artwork from the Echigo-Tsumari Art Triennale. Reflecting local culture and history through its unique design, the piece leaves a strong impression on visitors. To conclude the afternoon, stop by the Tokamachi City Museum (TOPPAKU), where you can explore exhibitions on Jomon culture, including the nationally designated Flame-style pottery. This afternoon walk offers a memorable experience where art and nature come together.

2:10 p.m. | Bijinbayashi | Walking Through a Mystical Beech Forest

Bijinbayashi is known as one of Tokamachi’s most enchanting natural spots. Tall beech trees stand gracefully throughout the forest, creating beautiful scenery that changes with the seasons. In autumn, vibrant foliage fills the area with rich colors, captivating all who visit.

The walking paths are well maintained and easy to follow, making the forest accessible even for beginners. This makes it a great choice for families and couples alike. As sunlight filters through the leaves, the gentle atmosphere helps calm the mind while reminding you of the power of nature. The forest is also home to various plants and wildlife, and with a bit of luck, you may encounter rare species.

Rest areas are scattered along the trails, allowing you to take your time and enjoy the surroundings at a relaxed pace. Surrounded by the quiet, mystical mood of Bijinbayashi, take a moment to refresh both your body and mind.

2:45 p.m. | Echigo-Tsumari Art Festival Artwork: For Lots of “Lost Windows”

After leaving Bijinbayashi, head to the Echigo-Tsumari Art Festival artwork For Lots of Lost Windows. This installation is themed around the natural environment and daily life of Tokamachi, blending seamlessly into the surrounding landscape. Using the motif of “lost windows,” the artwork conveys a quiet yet powerful message to those who visit.

Beyond its visual beauty, the piece reflects elements of local history and culture. Standing before it, you may feel as if past and present overlap in a single moment. Surrounded by nature, visitors can fully immerse themselves in the unique atmosphere created by the artwork.

Walking paths are well maintained around the site, allowing you to explore the area at a relaxed pace. There are also several great photo spots, making it easy to capture a memorable moment. This is a place where art and nature come together, offering a deeply reflective experience.

3:30 p.m. | Tokamachi City Museum TOPPAKU | Exploring Flame-Style Pottery

After an afternoon of walking and exploration, visit Tokamachi City Museum TOPPAKU, a valuable place to learn about the region’s history and culture. One of the highlights is the exhibition of Flame-style pottery, a representative artifact of the Jomon period. Its dynamic shapes and intricate designs offer insight into the lives and beliefs of people from thousands of years ago.

In addition to flame-style pottery, the museum features traditional crafts and folk materials from the region, showcasing Tokamachi’s rich cultural heritage. Informative panels make the exhibits easy to understand, even for visitors unfamiliar with Japanese history.

After your visit, stop by the museum shop to browse local crafts and souvenirs. Reflect on Tokamachi’s cultural depth as you prepare for the next stop on your journey.

Evening | Soaking in Matsunoyama Onsen & Shopping at Cross Ten

To conclude your trip, a visit to Matsunoyama Onsen is a must. Upon arrival, enjoy a relaxing soak at a day-use hot spring facility. The gentle, mineral-rich waters soothe the skin and help ease the fatigue of travel.

After unwinding, head to Cross Ten at 5:30 p.m. to shop for local crafts and souvenirs. Pick up Tokamachi specialties to take home as lasting memories of your journey. Depart Matsunoyama Onsen at 6:00 p.m. and return to Tokamachi Station by car in about 40–50 minutes. As the day comes to an end, reflect on a fulfilling itinerary and savor the warm afterglow of your travels.

4:15 p.m. | Arrive at Matsunoyama Onsen | Relax with a Day-Use Hot Spring

After a full afternoon of sightseeing, head to Matsunoyama Onsen, a quiet hot spring town surrounded by rich natural scenery. Upon arrival, you’ll be welcomed by the charming atmosphere of the onsen town. Several facilities here offer day-use bathing, making it easy to enjoy a relaxing soak without staying overnight.

The hot spring water is a gentle alkaline simple spring, known for leaving the skin feeling smooth and refreshed. Outdoor baths are especially appealing, allowing you to soak while taking in views of the surrounding mountains and nature. Let the warm water ease your travel fatigue and enjoy a peaceful moment of relaxation.

There are also many nearby restaurants serving dishes made with local ingredients, making it a great idea to enjoy a light meal after bathing. After unwinding in the hot springs, savor local flavors and bring your day to a satisfying close.

5:30 p.m. | Roadside Station “Cross Ten Tokamachi” | Souvenirs & Local Crafts

After refreshing yourself at Matsunoyama Onsen, head to Cross Ten Tokamachi, a shopping spot filled with local specialties and crafts—perfect for wrapping up your trip. Inside, you’ll find a wide selection of Tokamachi products, including locally grown rice, sake, and handmade crafts.

Highly recommended items include wooden goods and pottery crafted by local artisans. These pieces reflect Tokamachi’s nature and culture, making them ideal keepsakes. Locally made sweets and seasonings are also popular and make great treats to enjoy after returning home.

After shopping, don’t hesitate to ask the staff for recommendations. With their local knowledge, they may introduce you to hidden gems. A visit to Cross Ten offers a deeper appreciation of Tokamachi’s charm.

6:00 p.m. | Depart Matsunoyama Onsen → Arrive at Tokamachi Station

After finishing your time in Matsunoyama Onsen, it’s time to head back to Tokamachi Station. Feeling relaxed and refreshed, the drive back is comfortable and enjoyable. The journey takes about 40 minutes, passing through beautiful mountain scenery along the way.

From the car window, you’ll see Niigata’s rolling mountains and peaceful rural landscapes—an ideal way to conclude a day trip. By the time you arrive at Tokamachi Station, you’ll be able to reflect on a fulfilling day with both mind and body renewed.

Before boarding your train, don’t forget to pick up any last souvenirs. Local products and crafts make perfect reminders of your journey. As you look ahead to your next visit, enjoy a warm and satisfying end to your Tokamachi adventure.

Summary | Recommended Tokamachi Sightseeing Model Course

Tokamachi City in Niigata Prefecture is a wonderful destination where natural beauty and cultural richness come together. This recommended model course starts from Tokamachi Station and allows you to efficiently enjoy highlights such as the spectacular scenery of Kiyotsu Gorge, the mystical beech forest of Bijinbayashi, and a relaxing soak at Matsunoyama Onsen.

The immersive “Tunnel of Light” inside the Kiyotsu Gorge Tunnel is especially moving, while a walk through Bijinbayashi offers a peaceful moment surrounded by nature. The course also includes a soothing day-use hot spring experience at Matsunoyama Onsen and souvenir shopping for local crafts and specialties at Cross Ten Tokamachi. Use this itinerary as a guide and fully experience the charm of Tokamachi—where nature and culture come together to create a journey you won’t forget.