If you have always wanted to try some of Japan's most popular winter activities, the onsen (hot springs) or skiing, the Niigata Prefecture on Honshu Island is the place to go. Check out the Tsubame Onsen, famous for an open-air coed bath, or the Iwamuro Onsen, which dates back to the Edo period. Dubbed Japan's Snow Country, Niigata is renowned for its ski resorts on its alpine areas. If you are not into skiing, Niigata's Naeba ski resort hosts the annual Fuji Rock Festival, featuring about 200 Japanese and international rock musicians. With over 100,000 participants, it is one of the largest outdoor music events in Japan. Discover the rock and roll spirit on the alpine slopes of Niigata.

If you are looking for cheap flights, you should try traveling during the off-peak season. During this time, tickets drop to 50% off or even more. You can also try booking your flight, hotel, and car rental together in order to save money. Taking a flight during the middle of the week will result in cheap flights because you avoid vacationers on the weekend and business travelers on Monday.

Airports Serving Niigata, Japan

Located near the center of the Sea of Japan, the Niigata Airport (KJJ) is a flourishing international gateway, handling regular direct flights to and from Hawaii, Guam, Russia, China, and Korea. Although it handles some international and connecting flights from neighboring prefectures like Osaka, Nagoya and Sapporo, Niigata Airport's extended runway and facilities are equipped to function largely as a regional airport.