Famous as a “beauty-enhancing hot spring,” Tsukioka Onsen in Niigata Prefecture is an ideal destination for a girls’ getaway. In this article, we introduce a carefully planned one-night, two-day itinerary that lets you fully enjoy both strolling around the town and soaking in the hot springs. From charming retro streets and photogenic cafés to stylish souvenir shopping, this plan offers a refreshing experience for both body and mind. Detailed explanations of transportation and recommended stops are included, making it easy to enjoy Tsukioka Onsen even if it’s your first visit.
【Complete Guide】Beauty & Relaxation Trip | Tsukioka Onsen Girls’ Trip Model Course
Tsukioka Onsen in Niigata Prefecture is a soothing destination perfect for a girls’ trip. Known for its skin-beautifying waters, this hot spring town offers more than just onsen bathing—enjoy leisurely walks through town and visits to stylish cafés as well. This article presents a complete one-night, two-day model course designed to help you make the most of Tsukioka Onsen. With retro streets, Instagram-worthy spots, and fun souvenir hunting, the itinerary is packed with relaxing and memorable moments. Clear guidance on transportation and must-visit locations ensures a smooth and enjoyable experience, even for first-time visitors.
Day 1
Arriving at Shibata Station from Niigata Station
Traveling from Niigata Station to Shibata Station by train is the most convenient option. The journey takes about 30 minutes, and along the way you can enjoy scenic views of Niigata’s countryside from the window. Once you arrive at Shibata Station, your journey to Tsukioka Onsen begins. There is a tourist information center near the station, so it’s a good idea to pick up any helpful information before heading out.
From the station, the onsen town is easily accessible by bus or taxi, making the transfer smooth and stress-free.
It takes about two hours to reach Niigata Station from Tokyo Station by bullet train.
12:00 | Lunch at the Hot Spring Town
To fully enjoy your trip to Tsukioka Onsen, starting with a delicious lunch is essential. The onsen town is home to many restaurants that serve dishes made with fresh local ingredients, all set in a charming and traditional atmosphere. Japanese-style restaurants are especially recommended, where you can enjoy local specialties such as sushi made with seasonal fish and Niigata-grown Koshihikari rice, or a comforting bowl of warm soba noodles.
Café-style spots are also perfect for after lunch, offering homemade sweets and coffee. Instagram-worthy dessert plates are a highlight of any girls’ trip, making them ideal for sharing photos and memories with friends in a stylish setting.
After lunch, take some time to stroll through the onsen town. Browsing local specialties and souvenir shops while walking along the nostalgic streets is part of the fun. Once you’ve recharged with a satisfying meal, you’ll be ready to head to your next stop.
My personal recommendation is the soba at Juwari Soba Muguchi Appare!
2pm | Niigata Local Sake Premium SAKE Brewery
To make your Tsukioka Onsen trip even more special, head to Niigata Local Sake Premium SAKE Brewery. Niigata is one of Japan’s most famous sake regions, known for its pure water and high-quality rice. At this brewery, you can sample a wide variety of locally produced sake while also learning about the history and brewing process behind each bottle.
Inside, an impressive selection of sake is displayed, and the tasting area allows you to discover your personal favorite. From fruity and aromatic ginjo sake to rich and full-bodied junmai styles, there is something for everyone. Friendly staff provide clear explanations, making this experience enjoyable even for first-time sake drinkers.
You’ll also find many bottles available for purchase, perfect as souvenirs or gifts for friends and family. Enjoy a relaxed tasting experience and get ready for the next highlight of your journey—the onsen.
You can enjoy a sake tasting set of three cups for 600 yen.
3pm | Tsukioka Onsen | Relax in the Famous “Beautiful Skin” Hot Spring
After arriving in Tsukioka Onsen, it’s time to unwind in its famous “beautiful skin” hot springs. Many inns and day-use facilities in the center of town offer free-flowing sulfur-rich onsen water, known for leaving your skin soft and moisturized after bathing.
Soaking in the warm water while enjoying views of nature and the charming onsen town is a truly calming experience. An early evening bath, bathed in gentle sunset light, is especially relaxing. After your soak, take time to enjoy tea or local sweets offered at many facilities.
Tsukioka Onsen also features foot baths and private baths, making it ideal for a girls’ trip or traveling with friends. Once fully relaxed, return to your accommodation to enjoy dinner and conversations, creating unforgettable memories of your stay.
Not only the hot springs, but the nostalgic townscape is wonderfully soothing.
4pm | Shiratama no Yu Senkei | An Award-Winning Luxury Ryokan
Located in Tsukioka Onsen, Shiratama no Yu Senkei is an exceptional ryokan that has earned the top spot in national ryokan rankings. From the moment you step inside, refined Japanese-modern interiors create a calm, elegant atmosphere where time seems to slow down.
The highlight is its emerald-green sulfur hot spring, famous for its skin-beautifying qualities. The silky, mineral-rich water gently envelops the body, leaving skin feeling soft and deeply moisturized after bathing. Soaking in the free-flowing natural onsen is the perfect way to melt away travel fatigue.
Dining is another memorable experience, featuring beautifully presented kaiseki cuisine that showcases Niigata’s seasonal ingredients. Each dish reflects careful craftsmanship and local flavors. Combined with attentive, heartfelt hospitality, this ryokan is ideal for special occasions or a well-deserved reward trip. It’s no surprise that guests from across Japan return again and again for such a refined stay.
The thoughtful hospitality makes the stay incredibly comfortable and relaxing.
Day 2
9:00 | Morning Onsen | Start the Day with a Beauty Boost
A morning bath at Shiratama no Yu Senkei is a luxurious way to begin your day. In the crisp morning air, soaking in the gently flowing natural hot spring slowly awakens both body and mind. Soft sunlight streaming through the large windows and drifting steam create a peaceful, almost dreamlike atmosphere.
The onsen feels different from the night before—quieter and more refreshing. As you take deep breaths, everyday stress melts away, leaving your skin smooth and your spirit renewed. It’s a perfect start to the day and a memorable highlight of a girls’ trip.
Morning baths at a ryokan are one of the best parts of traveling.
11:00 | Ichishima Residence | Step into a World of History
One place worth visiting during your Tsukioka Onsen trip is the Ichishima Residence, a historic mansion once owned by a wealthy merchant family dating back to the Edo period. Walking through the residence offers a glimpse into the lifestyle and culture of the past.
The property features elegant architecture and a beautifully maintained garden, where seasonal flowers create a calm and refined atmosphere. Strolling through the grounds feels like stepping back in time, making it a meaningful and relaxing experience.
The residence also hosts cultural events and exhibitions, sometimes showcasing works by local artists and traditional crafts. Checking the event schedule in advance may add an extra layer of discovery to your visit.
It feels just like traveling back in time.
12:00 | Tsukioka Wakuwaku Park | Souvenir Shop
One of the highlights of visiting Tsukioka Onsen is searching for local specialties and souvenirs. At noon, stop by Tsukioka Wakuwaku Park, a perfect place to find regional products. The market offers fresh local produce, handmade crafts, and many items made with Niigata’s famous rice and sake—ideal as memorable gifts from your trip.
Inside, you’ll find stylish handmade goods and attractively packaged local foods that are fun just to browse. There are also tasting corners where you can sample Niigata favorites such as rice crackers and sasadango (bamboo-leaf rice dumplings). Being able to enjoy local flavors while shopping makes this stop especially enjoyable.
Seasonal events are sometimes held here, so depending on when you visit, you may discover something extra special. Take your time shopping with friends and bring home warm memories of Tsukioka Onsen.
There are plenty of fresh vegetables directly from local farmers—highly recommended!
14:00 | Ashiyu Yutabi | Take a Break at a Foot Bath Café
A relaxing stop during your Tsukioka Onsen trip is Ashiyu Yutabi, a unique spot combining a foot bath and a café. Soaking your feet in warm onsen water while taking a break is a wonderful way to ease travel fatigue and unwind.
The stylish, calm interior makes it a popular stop for girls’ trips and photo lovers. While enjoying the foot bath, you can order sweets and drinks made with local ingredients. The homemade matcha latte and seasonal fruit desserts are especially popular. With a warm drink in hand, conversations with friends flow naturally.
You’ll also find cute souvenirs and small goods for sale, making it a great place for last-minute shopping. After refreshing both body and mind here, you’ll be ready to continue your journey feeling relaxed and satisfied.
This foot bath café is located right in the center of the onsen town.
16:00 | Niigata Chocolat Premium Sweet Ama AMAMI
A perfect final stop on your journey is Niigata Chocolat Premium Sweet Ama AMAMI, a stylish café where you can enjoy sweets made with Niigata’s local ingredients. The bright and relaxing atmosphere makes it an ideal spot for a girls’ trip, inviting you to sit back and enjoy time with friends.
Ama AMAMI offers a wide selection of chocolates and desserts, with the rice-flour chocolate made from locally grown Niigata rice being especially popular. Its moist texture and refined sweetness make it a memorable treat. Seasonal desserts are also available, giving you something new to look forward to each visit.
The café’s charming interior and photogenic details make it perfect for taking photos while enjoying your sweets. Spending time here adds a sweet, relaxing note to the end of your trip.
They also sell unique chocolates, making them great souvenirs.
Arrive at Niigata Station
Arriving at Niigata Station marks the end of your journey, bringing together a touch of nostalgia and a deep sense of satisfaction. Beautiful scenery, soothing hot springs, and delicious local cuisine will remain as warm memories of your trip.
Having rediscovered the charm of Niigata, you may already find yourself wondering which season to visit next. With that anticipation in your heart, it’s time to return to everyday life—carrying the memories of a truly refreshing getaway.
Tsukioka Onsen | 3 Recommended Spots
When visiting Tsukioka Onsen, be sure to explore the surrounding area as well—not just the hot springs. One highly recommended stop is Niigata Beika DEN, where you can enjoy freshly made rice crackers with a crisp texture and rich aroma. Another must-see is the Northern Culture Museum, where you can explore a grand former farmhouse and experience traditional Japanese culture. Finally, at Handmade Glass Studio Vidro, you can create your own original glass piece—perfect as a one-of-a-kind travel souvenir. Visiting these spots will deepen your experience and reveal more of the charm surrounding Tsukioka Onsen.
Niigata Beika DEN | Enjoy Freshly Made Rice Crackers
A great place to enhance your Tsukioka Onsen trip is Niigata Beika DEN, where rice crackers made from locally grown Niigata rice are freshly prepared. The savory aroma and satisfying crunch make them irresistible from the very first bite.
Inside the shop, a wide variety of rice crackers are displayed, and tasting samples allow you to find your favorite flavor. Seasonal varieties and unique options using local ingredients are especially popular and make excellent souvenirs for friends and family.
The warm, wooden interior creates a calm and inviting atmosphere, perfect for taking a short break during your sightseeing. Enjoy choosing your rice crackers while sharing travel stories, and don’t miss the chance to experience Niigata’s famous flavors firsthand.
Be sure to try the rice cracker grilling experience—it’s a lot of fun!
Northern Culture Museum | Experience Traditional Japanese Culture
A wonderful place to enrich your Tsukioka Onsen trip is the Northern Culture Museum. This museum offers a rare glimpse into the lives of wealthy farming families from the Edo to Meiji periods. The spacious grounds and well-preserved buildings showcase traditional architecture, daily life, and cultural practices of the time.
Visitors can also enjoy hands-on Japanese cultural experiences, such as making traditional sweets, trying calligraphy, or even wearing a kimono. These activities are perfect for creating special memories with friends. Taking photos in a kimono against the historic buildings and gardens makes for an unforgettable and highly photogenic moment.
The surrounding gardens are another highlight, offering beautiful scenery throughout the year—from fresh greenery in spring to vibrant autumn leaves. Adding this cultural stop to your Tsukioka Onsen itinerary brings depth and balance to your relaxing journey.
Relaxing in nature here is highly recommended.
Handmade Glass Studio | Create a One-of-a-Kind Glass Artwork
A perfect final stop on your Tsukioka Onsen journey is Handmade Glass Studio Vidro. Here, you can experience glass crafting firsthand while watching skilled artisans at work. Creating your own original piece makes for a meaningful and memorable souvenir.
The workshop is beginner-friendly, with clear and careful guidance provided throughout the process. You can choose from colorful glass materials and create items such as drinking glasses or accessories, selecting shapes and colors that reflect your personal style. The creative process itself becomes a highlight of the trip.
Finished pieces can be taken home the same day, making them a lasting reminder of your journey. The studio also displays beautiful glass artworks that are a pleasure to admire. Adding this hands-on experience to your Tsukioka Onsen trip will leave you with memories—and a keepsake—that are truly one of a kind.
The glass-blowing experience is sure to become a special memory
Make the Most of Your Next Trip | 1-Night, 2-Day Summary
A one-night, two-day girls’ trip to Tsukioka Onsen is a perfect way to refresh both body and mind. With easy access from Niigata Station to Shibata Station, travel is smooth and stress-free, allowing you to focus on enjoying the journey. The charming onsen town offers a well-balanced mix of hot springs, local food, and cultural experiences.
On the first day, enjoy lunch in the atmospheric onsen town, sample Niigata’s local sake, and relax in the famous skin-beautifying hot springs. Staying overnight at a quality ryokan adds a touch of luxury and deep relaxation.
On day two, start with a refreshing morning bath, then explore local history at traditional residences. Souvenir shopping at Wakuwaku Park and a break at a foot bath café add light, enjoyable moments before departure.
Finish your trip with sweet treats at a local chocolate shop, savoring the final moments of your getaway. This thoughtfully planned itinerary captures the best of Niigata’s charm and is ideal for a memorable girls’ trip. Use it as inspiration for your next travel plan.
![[Aizu] 3-Day/2-Night Model Course | Experience Japan’s Warm Hospitality](https://ryokan-book.com/en/wp-content/uploads/2025/12/2-Night-Model-Course-_-Experience-Japans-Warm-Hospitality-1280x720-1-1024x576.webp)
