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One-day/Half-day Tour
Niigata
-Uonuma Water Pathway-

3-Day 2-Night Private Guided Tour Along the Serene Waterways of Uonuma - Niigata Prefecture

USD915.95(JPY131,000)

  • A confirmation email for your reservation will be sent to you within 48 hours.
    *If your reservation cannot be completed, WAmazing Play will process your refund.
  • Required Time:

    *3 days, 2 nights

  • Reservation Time:
    09:30
  • Supported Languages:
    Japanese
Participants(Min.):
2 People
Participants(Max.):
7 People
Min. Participants Required For Activity:
2 People
Payment Method:
Credit Card (VISA/MASTER/AMERICAN EXPRESS/JCB)
Fee:
USD 915.95
Age (Min.):
12 years old
Parent/ Guardian Required:
Under 18 years old
Cancellation:
Yes
Booking deadline:
7 days prior by 17:00

Activity

[(1) Learn about the gentle waters of the Echigo Sanzan] Factory Tour of Uonuma Jozo

• At Uonuma Jozo, one of the world's largest rice malt factories, visitors can observe the production process of fermented foods, such as koji amazake (fermented rice drink), which makes the most of Uonuma’s natural bounty.
• In the theater room, you can watch a video that introduces the background of why the factory was built here to source the rich snowmelt water from the Echigo Sanzan (Three Mountains of Echigo) and how amazake is made using pure water and rice.
• At the end of the factory tour, you can also enjoy the snow storage warehouse, where snow is kept for the building's air conditioning.

[(2) Learn about the gentle waters of the Echigo Sanzan] Mizunashi River / Alluvial fan fieldwork

• The Echigo Sanzan (Three Mountains of Echigo), the pride of Niigata Prefecture, consists of three famous peaks: Mt. Echigo-Komagatake, Mt. Nakanodake, and Mt. Hakkai. You can experience the bounty of snowmelt water from these magnificent mountains.
• Under the guidance of a nature guide, you will drive along a river through a rural landscape, experiencing the ultra-soft water that nurtures the agricultural products of the Uonuma Brand, and tour the alluvial fan.

[(1) Trace Japan's largest Okutadami Dam and its water source, experiencing the grandeur of nature and water firsthand] Takigumo "cloud waterfall" (optional)

• The waterfall of clouds is a fantastic spectacle woven by nature and water.
• The sight of clouds flowing down into the valley like a waterfall is a moment where you can feel the mystical and overwhelming grandeur of nature up close.
*This phenomenon can only be seen under specific weather conditions, so viewing it is optional.

[(2) Trace Japan's largest Okutadami Dam and its water source, experiencing the grandeur of nature and water firsthand] Trekking to Lake Ozenuma

• You will take a sightseeing boat and bus to Lake Ozenuma (in Oze National Park), the water source of the Okutadami Dam. (The walking time from the trailhead to Lake Ozenuma is about 90 minutes.)
• Lake Ozenuma, known as the birthplace of the nature conservation movement, is a sacred destination for trekkers, renowned for its stunning wetlands and abundant natural beauty. Oze is also famous as a treasure trove of alpine flora, where a wide variety of flowers bloom in abundance.
• You will spend one night at a mountain hut in Oze National Park. The guide will provide a detailed lecture on the rules and etiquette for protecting nature.

[(3) Trace Japan's largest Okutadami Dam and its water source, experiencing the grandeur of nature and water firsthand] Okutadami Dam and Electric Power Museum

• The Okutadami Dam, one of the largest dams in Japan, boasts an overwhelming scale. Visitors can enjoy a close-up view of the dam's powerful presence, surrounded by majestic mountains and abundant nature.
• At the Okutadami Electric Power Museum, which reopened in September 2023 after renovation to celebrate its 50th anniversary, visitors can learn about the history of the dam and how hydroelectric power works.


Schedule

  • [Day 1] 9:30 AM: Meet up at Urasa Station Information Center 

    Please present your My Page reservation screen at the reception desk.
    Meet up with your guide and start your 3-day/2-night tour of Uonuma's waterways!

  • Uonuma Jozo factory tour → Local cuisine experience → Mizunashi River and Alluvial fan fieldwork → Check-in at the accommodation

    • The trip begins with a visit to Uonuma Jozo, situated at the edge of an alluvial fan. Here, you will discover why Uonuma Jozo established its factory in this location, taking advantage of the abundant snowmelt water from Echigo Sanzan. You will also learn about the production of amazake, made with pure water and rice. During your visit, you'll have the chance to taste malt-sweetened sake (koji amazake) freshly delivered from the factory, as well as soft-serve ice cream made with koji amazake. Additionally, you'll enjoy a hands-on experience making koji amazake soap.
    • For lunch, you will prepare local dishes using fresh ingredients nurtured by Uonuma's gentle water with local mothers. It will be a chance to learn about Japanese cuisine while enjoying cultural exchange.
    • In the afternoon, enjoy a fieldwork session. Returning to the edge of the alluvial fan, follow the watercourse upstream along the Mizunashi River. Along the way, you will be introduced to Uonuma's branded agricultural products nurtured by the subterranean waters of the Echigo Sanzan and enjoy tastings of spring water before reaching the summit of the fan. At the summit, the magnificent panoramic views of the Echigo Sanzan await.
    *Depending on the season, there may be opportunities to experience harvesting Uonuma’s agricultural products.

  • [Day 2] Viewing the waterfall of clouds (optional) → Okutadami sightseeing boat and bus → Oze Trekking → Accommodation check-in

    • (Option) Admire "Takigumo" (waterfall of clouds), a breathtaking sight where nature and water create a fantastical scene. Savor the magical moment as this enchanting view unfolds in the crisp, cool air of early morning.
    • Head for Lake Ozenuma (in Oze National Park), the water source of Okutadami Dam. After enjoying a 40-minute cruise on a sightseeing boat, take a bus ride to the Numayama Pass. Enjoy trekking in the great nature while exploring the marshland and wooden paths. (From the trailhead to Lake Ozenuma is approximately 90 minutes.)
    • At the Ozenuma Visitor Center, at the end of the tour, you can learn about the nature conservation movement in Oze.
    • On this day, we will stay overnight at a lodge in Oze National Park. If the weather is clear, you can enjoy stargazing under a star-filled sky.

  • [Day 3] Oze Trekking → Okutadami sightseeing boat and bus → Okutadami Dam and Electric Power Museum tour → Roadside Station Shopping

    • The morning mist at the mountain lodge creates a magical moment, allowing you to enjoy the changing expressions of nature.
    • After descending from Oze, we will visit the Okutadami Dam and Electric Power Museum at the end of the tour.
    • From the dam lake and observation deck, enjoy a dynamic and unique landscape that offers a different view from everyday life.
    • At the Electric Power Museum, learn about the environmentally friendly hydroelectric power system and the history of the dam. There are many interactive exhibits, so feel free to enjoy and experience them.
    • Before heading to Urasa Station, you can purchase souvenirs such as specialty products of Uonuma at "Michi no Eki Yunotani" (Roadside Station).

  • 5:00 PM: Arrive at Urasa Station, where the tour concludes


Included in the Fee

First and second night accommodation (with 2 dinners and breakfasts), transportation for 3 days, one accompanying guide, one interpreter (English or Chinese), lunch on the first day (local cuisine experience), lunch on the second day (rice balls), sightseeing boat and shared bus fees, activity fees at each facility, and admission fees to each facility

Not included in the Fee

Transportation and guide fee for waterfall of clouds sightseeing on the second day lunch on the third day (at Okutadami Lake House), souvenirs at each facility, additional food and drink charges at accommodation, and other costs not mentioned above

Meeting Place

In front of the Tourist Information Center (MYU) on the 2nd floor concourse of JR Urasa Station

JR Urasa Station 2F, 719-2 Urasa, Minamiuonuma-shi, Niigata

Directions

Nearest StationJR Urasa Station (Joetsu Shinkansen) *About 90 minutes from JR Tokyo Station (Joetsu Shinkansen) / About 33 minutes from JR Niigata Station (Joetsu Shinkansen)


Things guests need to prepare on the day of the activity (clothes, belongings, etc.)

Please wear comfortable clothing suitable for trekking, comfortable sneakers (or trekking shoes if available), rainwear (top and bottom), a hat, a water-resistant bag (one that keeps your hands free), and gloves (to prevent coldness)

Cash (may be required as a tip for using restrooms in Oze National Park)

Oze is a mountainous region with an elevation of over 1,000 meters. Temperatures are 10 to 15 degrees lower than in lowland areas, and even in early June or late September, some days can have subzero temperatures. Long sleeves and long pants are recommended even in midsummer.


Cancellation Policy

The cancel fee is based on the timing of the cancellation. Please check the cancellation policy below.

  • After 20 days before date of use
    20%
  • After 7 days before date of use
    30%
  • After 1 days before date of use
    40%
  • The day of use
    100%

Cancellation after the tour has started or a no-show without contact will be charged a 100% cancellation fee. There will be no refund of the tour fee.
If you need to cancel on the day of the tour, please contact us before the tour starts. (In that case, 50% of the cancellation fee will be charged)


Notes

[Schedule]
(Day 1)
9:30 AM: Meet at MYU (Information Center) at Urasa Station (meet your guide and receive an explanation of the tour itinerary)
10:00 AM - 12:00 PM: Tour of Uonuma Jozo
12:15 PM - 2:00 PM: Local Cuisine Experience (Kakehashi)  
2:15 PM - 3:15 PM: Mizunashi River, alluvial fan fieldwork
3:15 PM - 4:15 PM: Seasonal harvest experience / Introduction to local specialties & souvenirs
5:00 PM: Check-in at Ginzan-daira Onsen

Accommodations for the first day will be as follows
• Ginzan-daira Onsen, Okutadami Sanso
- Amenities: TV, safe, tea set, yukata, towel, bath towel, toothbrush set
• Ginzan-daira Onsen, Kozanso
- Amenities: TV, safe, tea set, yukata, towel, bath towel, toothbrush set

(Day 2)
4:30 AM - 6:30 AM - Takigumo (waterfall of clouds) Viewing (Shiori Pass) *Open from late June *Optional
7:30 AM - 8:30 AM: Breakfast
8:30 AM: Depart the inn
8:50 AM: Arrive at Okutadami Dam
09:25 AM - 10:05 AM: Okutadami sightseeing boat
10:10 AM - 11:15 AM: Take a shared bus through a beech forest to the Numayama Pass trailhead
11:30 AM - 0:30 PM: Lunch (rice balls)
0:30 PM - 2:00 PM: Hike from Numayama Pass trailhead to Lake Ozenuma
2:00 PM - 3:00 PM: Oze Visitor Center
3:00 PM: Check-in at Chozogoya
5:30 PM - 6:30 PM: Dinner
(*Bathing hours are from 4:00 PM to 6:30 PM)

Accommodations on Day 2
• Chozogoya
- Amenities: Soap and body wash are available in the bathroom. As this is a mountain lodge, bath towels and face towels are not provided.
- Bedding: Blankets, quilts, and futons are provided, but there are no linen sheets. Those who are concerned may use a thin blanket as a sheet or bring travel sheets or an inner sleeping bag. Comfortable clothing, such as workout clothes, is recommended as a change of clothes in case they get wet.
*Due to environmental protection, shampoo is not available. For those wearing makeup or strong sunscreen, please bring makeup remover sheets and lightly remove your makeup before bathing.

(Day 3)
6:00 AM - 7:00 AM: Breakfast
7:15 AM: Depart the inn
09:00 AM - 10:05 AM: Take a shared bus from Numayama Pass to Ozeguchi Boat Pier
10:15 AM - 10:55 AM: Okutadami sightseeing boat
11:15 AM - 12:30 PM: Lunch (Okutadami Lake House)
1:00 PM - 3:00 PM: Visit Okutadami Dam and Okutadami Electric Power Museum
3:30 PM: Depart Okutadami Dam
4:20 PM - 4:40 PM: Miyuki-no-Sato (Shopping)
5:00 PM: Arrival at Urasa Station & Tour concludes


[Notes]
Please note that it may take more than 48 hours to respond regarding the acceptance or non-acceptance of a reservation due to the adjustment of reservation slots and other factors. Thank you in advance for your understanding.

• Please note that the schedule is subject to change without notice due to weather conditions and other factors.
• Please bring comfortable clothing for the trekking experience, comfortable sneakers, rain wear (top and bottom), a hat, a water-resistant bag (preferably one that leaves your hands free), and work gloves (to prevent cold).
• Please have cash ready, as you may need to pay a tip to use the restrooms in Oze National Park.
• The tour may be cancelled if the sightseeing boat is unavailable due to bad weather or if the road is closed. We appreciate your understanding in advance.
• In the event of natural disasters, war, riots, cancellations by transport or accommodation services, official orders, or other unavoidable circumstances, the tour schedule and services may be changed after explaining the situation to participants. In emergency situations, explanations will be provided after the changes.
• Please note that children under 11 years old are not allowed to participate.

[Cancellation Policy]
• The activity may be cancelled for safety reasons due to inclement weather, natural disasters, or other circumstances. In such cases, WAmazing Play's Customer Support or the organizer will contact the emergency contact. Please be sure to check your e-mail or incoming call on the day of the activity. (Estimated date/time of contact: the day before, after 2:00 PM)
• The operator will notify the emergency contact if the activity is cancelled on the day of the event due to weather, natural disasters, or other unforeseen circumstances. Please ensure you check your email and incoming calls on the day of the activity.
*Please note that in the event of cancellation due to inclement weather or natural disasters, we may not be able to refund your accommodation fee in accordance with our cancellation policy. We apologize for any inconvenience this may cause and kindly ask for your understanding before making a reservation.

[Language Support]
•Inquiries made by the day before will be answered in simple English and Chinese.
•On the day of the tour, Japanese support will be available, along with English and Chinese assistance provided by the tour guide and interpreter.

[Parking at Urasa Station]
• Paid parking: Under the Urasa Station overpass / Urasa Station parking lot
• Free parking: Municipal parking lot

Organizer

(General Incorporated Association, Uonuma City Tourism Association) (Registered Travel Agency of Niigata Prefecture, No. 3-365; Member of the All Nippon Travel Agents Association (ANTA))

1144 Yoshida, Uonuma-shi, Niigata

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