Renowned throughout Japan for its impressive mountain ranges and abundance of pristine snowy tracks available for winter sports (it was the site of the 1998 Winter Olympics), Hakuba has always been a popular weekend destination for those looking to escape the hustle and bustle of Tokyo to get lost in nature, whether it be to experience the wondrous snowfall or go hiking across mountain ranges in the green season.

Niigata Prefecture, accessible from Tokyo through the Hokuriku or the Joetsu Shinkansen, is famous for its rice, natural scenery, and tons of snow. There are a plethora of things to do in the prefecture, so let’s take a quick look at some highlights!

Fukui Prefecture, nestled in the Hokuriku region of Japan, will soon be a short train ride away from Tokyo with the new opening of the Hokuriku Shinkansen extension next month. From a museum all about ancient dinosaurs, to a secluded island accessed only by a bridge, Fukui Prefecture has everything you need for a fulfilling trip. Let’s take a look at some things you can do in the dinosaur prefecture!

Sapporo is the capital of Hokkaido and is the largest city in Japan north of Tokyo.  While it is perhaps most well-known internationally for the beer and the Snow Festival, there is so much more to explore in the vibrant and picturesque Northern Capital. 

Take advantage of a great value discount travel ticket to explore the 19 metre tall Snow Walls of the stunning Tateyama Kurobe Alpine Route in the Japan Alps.