How to Spend a Day at Hakkai-san Ropeway & Sake Brewery in Niigata

Niigata is a beautiful region in Japan, known for its scenic mountains, delicious sake, and rich cultural heritage. This guide will help you plan a full day exploring the stunning views from the Hakkaisan Ropeway and experiencing the traditional sake brewing process at Hakkaisan Brewery.

Let’s get started!

Take a Train to Muikamachi Station

From Niigata Station:

1. Board the Joetsu Shinkansen to Echigo-Yuzawa Station (approximately 1 hour).

2. Transfer to the Joetsu Line and ride to Muikamachi Station (approximately 25 minutes).

Note: Train schedules may vary; please check the latest timetables before your trip.​

Take a Bus or Taxi to Hakkaisan Ropeway

From Muikamachi Station, take a local bus or taxi to the Hakkaisan Ropeway Station. The ride takes around 20–25 minutes.

Ride the Hakkaisan Ropeway

Enjoy a peaceful and scenic ride up Mount Hakkai. The ropeway offers sweeping views of forests, valleys, and even snow in early spring and late fall.

Operating Season: April 27 to November 10

Hours: 8:00 AM – 4:00 PM (last descent at 4:30 PM)

Ticket Prices:

• April 27 – September 30: Adults ¥2,600, Children ¥1,500

• October 1 – November 10: Adults ¥2,800, Children ¥1,700

What to Do:

✔ Take in panoramic views from the summit area
✔ Walk the short trails around the top station
✔ Enjoy fresh mountain air and peaceful surroundings
✔ Take photos of the mountains and forest from the observation decks

Have Lunch at Uonuma no Sato

After riding back down, head to Uonuma no Sato, a nearby village-style area next to the Hakkaisan Brewery. It has shops, restaurants, and tasting areas.

1. Nagamori Soba Restaurant

• Handmade soba noodles using local buckwheat

• Set meals with seasonal tempura and rice

• Vegetarian options available: plain soba, vegetable tempura, rice and pickles

2. Satoya Café

• Japanese-style sweets, light meals, and tea

• Great for a light lunch or snack break

3. Yukimuro Kitchen (inside Hakkaisan Snow Room complex)

• Local rice bowls and side dishes

• Rotating seasonal menu — check for veggie choices

Visit Hakkaisan Brewery

Walk over to the nearby Hakkaisan Sake Brewery and explore how Niigata’s clean water and rice create some of Japan’s finest sake.

What to Do:

✔ Visit the Hakkaisan Yukimuro – a natural snow-cooled storage room
✔ Learn how snow is used to preserve sake and food
✔ Try a sake tasting (free or low-cost) at the shop
✔ Browse sake-themed souvenirs and snacks

Note: There are no fully guided tours, but the facilities are open to visitors, and signs are available in English.

Explore Uonuma no Sato Shops and Scenic Spots

Before heading back, take some time to stroll around Uonuma no Sato, a peaceful area full of local charm.

What to See:

✔ Shops selling rice crackers, pickles, and crafts
✔ Outdoor trails and garden paths
✔ Small local museums and display rooms
✔ A scenic rice terrace view in season (summer/early fall)

Take a Taxi or Bus Back to Muikamachi Station

Begin your return trip by taking a taxi or bus from Uonuma no Sato back to Muikamachi Station.

Take a Train Back to Niigata Station

From Muikamachi Station, ride the JR Joetsu Line to Echigo-Yuzawa, then transfer to the Joetsu Shinkansen back to Niigata Station.

• Total return time: About 1 hour and 30 minutes

Have Dinner in Niigata City

Back in Niigata, treat yourself to a relaxing meal after a full day of sightseeing.

Recommended Dinner Options:

1. Kaisenya Ichi

• Local seafood, sushi, and grilled dishes

• Known for rice from Niigata and fresh catch of the day

2. Havan Dining (Vegetarian buffet)

• Plant-based meals, rice dishes, and soups

• Peaceful and cozy atmosphere

3. Suzuvel Café & Dining (Vegan-friendly)

• Serves vegan curries, burgers, and sweets

• Stylish and comfortable space for dinner

Return to Your Hotel and Relax

End your day with a warm bath, some local sake, or simply a quiet night in your room. If you're staying longer in Niigata, tomorrow is a great time to explore Furumachi, Toki Messe, or Sado Island.