Gatsugi is a very small town located in the prefecture of Niigata, which overlooks the Sea of Japan. The scenery in the area is beautiful and still reminiscent of a time before skyscrapers and subways, wild in all the best ways.
The Beautiful Coastline of Japan Overlooking the Sea of Japan
Easily accessible from Murakami, the nearest main town, a stroll along the Sea of Japan in Gatsugi is the perfect getaway to the Japanese countryside, a trip to the pristine coastline. Everywhere is accessible by foot, and you can find all the main tourist destinations within easy reach of the main town.
Goishi Beach
Located just a few minutes walk from Gatsugi station, Goishi Beach is incredibly beautiful. Enjoy marveling at the gigantic rocks stretching out of the sea, one of the many features that lend to the wildness of the area. On one of the rocks, you can see torii, the sacred doors of the Shinto religion. In the distance, on the horizon, you can see a nearby island: Awahimaura, surrounded by The Sea of Japan.
Hakogata Hachimangu Shaso
The Hakogata Hachimangu Shrine, a 15-minute walk from the beach, is located on the top of Mt.Hakogata. Mt Hakogata is a rocky mountain, originally formed by a volcanic eruption and surrounded by pristine forest. Shaso means, “the grove of the sanctuary of the village” The trees surround the sanctuary.
Hakogata Hachimangu Shaso was designated as a Natural Monument of Japan. Hachimangu is built on a mountain 80 meters high. It is a spiritual place known as “The Mountain of God” 神の山. If you are interested in finding the entrance, you can find it very close to the train station, just take the underpass under the main road. On your way back down, make sure to walk along the rocks a bit further to admire the beautiful landscape.
The Old Town Street of Neya
If you have a chance, do not miss taking a stroll through the old streets of the city to see the beautiful dark wooden houses that are located all along the streets.
Neya Fishing Port
Neya Fishing Port is one of the best-known ports in the prefecture of Niigata. During the salmon fishing season in the winter, this port is very attractive and lively.
How to Get to Gatsugi?
From Tokyo, it is easy to get to Murakami. It takes 3 hours by train (change trains at Niigata station). For more details, check out this article. From Murakami Station, take the JR Uetsu Line (valid with your JR pass) bound for Sakata (酒田), which only 40 minutes to get to Gatsugi. Take a seat on the left side to admire the beautiful coastline of the Sea of Japan!
Upon your arrival, enjoy a walk through the peaceful town of Gatsugi.
Sponsored by Murakami City
Translated by Aika Ikeda
