Station Kunikami

Discover the Heart of Echigo: Where Nature, Tradition, and Adventure Meet

Nestled at the base of Mount Kugami in燕市, Kunikami is more than a roadside station—it’s a vibrant gateway to the natural and cultural soul of Niigata Prefecture. Surrounded by ancient forests, historic temples, and rolling farmland, this dynamic hub blends rural charm with modern recreation. From the famed Kugami Temple to the serene Five-Go Hermitage, the area’s rich heritage sets the stage for an authentic Japanese journey.

Kunikami shines as a year-round destination, offering everything from seasonal harvest festivals and the legendary Rice Carrying Challenge to hand-cut New Year decorations, farmers’ markets, and a full-service hot spring bathhouse. Whether you're hiking the nearby trails, grilling under the stars at the hand-bare BBQ area, or unwinding in the footbath terrace, every experience connects you with the land and its people. With accommodations, camping, and events tailored for families and adventurers alike, Kunikami isn’t just a stop—it’s a destination.

At Kunikami roadside station, experience the region’s only hand-cut Haccho-gami—traditional New Year decorations crafted by artisans from Bunsui Kiri-e Mura, each one meticulously cut by hand with seasonal zodiac designs. This is a rare, authentic craft available nowhere else. Complementing this, the annual “Rice Carrying Challenge” offers a unique, physically engaging festival moment where visitors can test their strength by lifting heavy rice bundles—success brings exclusive prizes like the famed “Hibiya Dance” and local gift vouchers—making it a one-of-a-kind cultural event rooted in local pride.

• Best Arrival Time: Visit the 313 Farmers Market on weekends between 9:00 AM and 10:00 AM to secure the freshest seasonal produce, as the market opens at 9:00 AM and local farmers often sell out by mid-morning.

• Hidden Gems: At the deli counter, look for the limited-edition hand-cut Haccho-gami (New Year decorations) sold exclusively from November 1st, with designs featuring the upcoming zodiac animal—these sell out quickly due to their handmade nature.

• Weekend Special: On November 3rd, arrive by 11:15 AM to secure a good spot for the free Kimi to Idol Precure Show, which starts at 11:30 AM and includes a post-show high-five meet-and-greet.

• Food Timing: Order the Yonezawa Ramen Jun at the restaurant between 11:30 AM and 12:30 PM to avoid the midday rush, as this specialty dish is especially popular and may have a short wait during peak hours.

• Bakery Visit: Stop by the Bakery Bus No-ra no Kyuujitsu bakery between 8:30 AM and 9:00 AM on weekends to get the day’s first batch of freshly baked milk bread, which sells out by 11:00 AM.

• Event Planning: If you plan to participate in the Rice Carrying Challenge on November 3rd, arrive by 11:45 AM—this event starts at 12:00 PM and requires pre-registration at the event desk, which fills up fast.

• Thermal Experience: Visit the Tebura Hot Foot Terrace on a weekday between 10:00 AM and 11:00 AM to enjoy the full 8-hour window without crowds, especially if you're planning to combine it with the nearby Temari no Yu hot spring.

Spring (March-May): Limited seasonal offerings noted; no specific spring activities or products mentioned.

Summer (June-August): Summer Night Picnic event held August 23–24; BBQ and camping available.

Autumn (September-November): Peak season for the Autumn Harvest Festival (November 2–3), with rice lifting challenge, seasonal markets, and forest fair.

Winter (December-February): No specific winter events or products listed; eighting and gift sales begin in November.