Work and sleep, on repeat. Today, many of us face the stress of the fast-paced lifestyle that we have to inevitably get accustomed to. The hustle and bustle of city life may take up the bulk of our time, but we all know that although this lifestyle is needed to make ends meet, this isn’t the ideal way to spend our time.

Sometimes, all we need is a short getaway to get a breather from the strenuous amount of stress we have to leave us feeling pumped up, refreshed and more energetic than before.

Every second is important—and that is why we have compiled a list of beach destinations you can get to from Singapore within 3 hours, perfect for a short weekend retreat from the taxing and frenetic way of life.

Photo Credit: eatosphere

#1 SUGI ISLAND

WHERE IT IS: Situated just 50km away from the Lion City, Sugi Island is part of the Riau islands in Indonesia and remains as one of the hotspots for a short beach vacation today.

GETTING THERE FROM SINGAPORE: Just a 50-minute ferry ride from Singapore to Batam, followed by a 90-minute boat ride from Batam will bring you to Sugi Islands. If you have extra time on your hands, Telunas Beach Resort is just a stone’s throw away!

Photo Credit: esendy

#2 NONGSA

WHERE IT IS: Nongsa is part of the Riau Islands in Indonesia and it is home to a myriad of luxurious beachfront villas.

GETTING THERE FROM SINGAPORE: Believe it or not, Nongsa Beach Resort is only 35-minutes away by ferry from Singapore’s Tanah Merah Ferry Terminal, making it an ideal destination be it for a weekend escape or an extended vacation.

Photo Credit: ngetrip_karimunjawa

#3 KARIMUN ISLANDS

WHERE IT IS: Just like Sugi Island and Nongsa, Karimun Island is part of the Riau Archipelago in Indonesia and it is situated just 37km southwest from Singapore. It lies between Singapore and Batam.

GETTING THERE FROM SINGAPORE: A 90-minute ferry ride from Harbourfront terminal will bring you to Karimun Islands. With 4 ferry crossings daily on weekdays and 6 ferry crossings daily on weekends, there is no reason for you to miss out on an opportunity like this!

Photo Credit: discoverunseen

#4 PULAU TIGA

WHERE IT IS: This secret island is dubbed as the Maldives of Malaysia and it is located just off the western coast of Sabah, Malaysia.

GETTING THERE FROM SINGAPORE: Take a 2h 30minute flight from Singapore to Kota Kinabalu before a 30-minute boat ride to Tiga Islands. Fans of diving and snorkelling will be pleased to hear that Tiga Islands had plenty of fringing coral reefs with beautiful colours and sea creatures.

Photo Credit: martin.puhm

#5 MANUKAN ISLAND

WHERE IT IS: Manukan Island is also part of Kota Kinabalu, Malaysia and it is Malaysia’s first Marine Park.

GETTING THERE FROM SINGAPORE: A 2.5-hour flight from Singapore is needed to get to Kota Kinabalu and just a short 10-minute car ride will get you to Manukan Island. Snorkel in the ocean and you’ll be amazed by the fishes that will surround you—with plenty of resorts around this island, Manukan is also a popular destination for a short day trip!

Photo Credit: joe_bighead

#6 KO SAMUI

WHERE IT IS: It is Thailand’s second largest island and it is particularly renowned for its palm-fringed beaches, coconut groves and lush greenery surrounding it.

GETTING THERE FROM SINGAPORE: There are direct flights from Singapore to Ko Samui that take just 1 hour and 50 minutes. With resorts and beachside villas ranging from budget to luxury, Ko Samui is perfect for anyone and everyone seeking a retreat from city life.

Photo Credit: wissaww

#7 KO PHA NGAN

WHERE IT IS: Ko Pha Ngan is situated just north of Ko Samui—It is the secret of Thailand as it is home to unrivalled beaches with white sands and clear water under cobalt-blue skies.

GETTING THERE FROM SINGAPORE: Ko Pha Ngan does not have an airport, and it is less commercialised as compared to Ko Samui. Thus, getting there will likely require ferries from mainland Thailand and Koh Samui.

Travelling has evolved a lot since our adolescent days. Visiting touristy attractions were possibly the main agenda back then, but most of us now are no longer satisfied with the mere act of ticking off these iconic sightseeing places.

Instead, an increasing number of travellers are craving for an authentic local experience and immersing themselves in the lives of natives.

Perhaps the need to “escape” is no longer present for we now feel the need to educate ourselves with foreign cultural experiences – which really isn’t a bad thing. From living in a local town, partaking in cooking classes, sampling street food to walking whenever possible, here are 13 ways to live like a local while one is on a vacation.

#1 AIRBNB

For a true-blue experience of living like a local, rent either an entire apartment or private room from the locals. We highly recommend rent lodging website Airbnb for some local hosts provide the most amazing dining recommendations!

This enables travellers to get a taste of life as a local and explore surroundings of a foreign destination’s local neighbourhood like never before.

#2 COOKING CLASSES

Regardless of whether it is a half-day class, one-week workshop or a month-long course, cooking classes are a great way to learn about a destination’s culture and cuisine.

It is also during these interactive activities that you will pick up some lingo, make friends and also learn precious skills of replicating local delicacies.

Check out 7 Cooking Classes in Ubud (Bali) That Are Worth Travelling For.

#3 DITCH THE GUIDEBOOK

While a destination guidebook’s primary purpose is to facilitate one’s travels, we have also realised that most recommendations are geared towards touristy ones. To avoid tourist traps, we suggest you avoid over relying on the guidebooks and try an alternative route instead i.e. ask the locals you encounter for suggestions.

#4 DRESS UP LIKE THE LOCALS

Instead of sticking out like a sore thumb with very touristy outfits, why not do some research in advance on your designated destination and try to dress up like the locals?

Fake it ’till you make it! Avoid wearing tacky straw hats and floral printed shirt or else you might end up attracting pickpockets and scammers.

#5 EXCHANGE HOMES

There are several online websites such as Home Exchange and Love Home Swap that allow travellers to temporarily exchange their houses.

For those not in the know, it essentially means that you get to live in someone else’s home and the other party gets to live in yours. It’s a win-win situation and you get to save up.

#6 MAKE FRIENDS WITH NATIVES

You never know what striking up a conversation at wherever you are could lead to. Humans are inherently good by nature and chances are, your new friend could bring you to the coolest places in town.

Of course, always trust your gut instincts and never befriend someone whom you think is potentially dangerous.

#7 MOBILE APPS

Thanks to the advancement of technology, we now have access to the insider’s news at the tip of our fingers. Some app would feature only locally-owned restaurants while some provide tips on cities by locals themselves.

#8 PICK UP THE NATIVE LANGUAGE

Picking up a foreign language from scratch with no prior knowledge is tough, but it goes a long way when you know the key basic words.

Alternatively, why not take it to a whole new level by learning it from a language center? Your new lifelong skill could definitely help you heaps to blend in when travelling around.

#9 READ LOCAL PRESSES

For the most up-to-date information, browse through the newspaper stands and local hipster cafes for brochures and magazines. It is through these local presses that you will uncover a trove of information on the city’s upcoming events, hottest dining destinations and more.

#10 SAMPLE STREET FOOD

It is time to step out of your comfort zone and start sampling local street food on the streets itself!

This might be a daunting experience for the reserved, especially when the specific dish is particularly funky. But it is through food that you get to learn about a destination’s history, geography and demography.

#11 VISIT LOCAL GROCERS AND MARKETS

Visiting different local grocery stores and markets is an eye-opening experience. These places pose a great opportunity for travellers to check out the local communities and catch a glimpse of their livelihoods.

You are also bound to chance upon many products that you have never seen in your own hometown.

Source: Easy Tour China

#12 VOLUNTEER

Volunteering vacations are extremely common these days. If you have the time and energy to spare, why not join one of these service-based vacations where you can join the locals to build homes, teach kids or sort food donations etc.

Volunteers get to make a positive difference and meet new local friends.

#13 WALK WHENEVER POSSIBLE

While taking a private taxi could potentially save time, walking in between point A and point B (assuming it isn’t too far) could actually reveal many hidden gems you would have otherwise not known about.

Most local eateries are tucked away in small obscure streets and would be easily missed if you are driving or on a car.

Asia—the biggest of the seven continents home to 48 countries and countless pieces of paradise—is dubbed to be ‘The Land of Extremess’. This continent embodies the most interesting cultural diversity that makes exploring all the countries ever-so-desirable.

Lucky for travellers seeking respite, to say that Asia offers a multitude of luxurious accommodation would be an understatement. Here you can get everything from high-style beach bungalows to 376 metre-square presidential suites to underwater bedrooms and jungle hideaways.

Here are 24 Gorgeous Hotels and Resorts In Asia That Will Blow Your Mind With Their Beauty.

Photo Credit: Travel Plus Style

AMANDARI

Where: Ubud, Bali, Indonesia

Amandari is a luxury resort tucked away within the lush vegetation and rice terraces surrounding the hotel in Bali. Designed to replicate the style of a traditional Balinese village, be prepared to be greeted by magnificent stone walls that are hand-carved by local artisans around the entrance pavilion.

This resort has plenty of rooms that will give you panoramic views of the verdant valleys, cascading rice paddies and Hindu shrines.

Banjar, Jl. Raya Kedewatan, Kedewatan, Ubud, Kabupaten Gianyar, Bali 80571, Indonesia
Tel: +62 361 975333

Photo Credit: Elegant Resorts

AMANSARA 

Where: Siem Reap, Cambodia

Siem Reap is a resort town in Cambodia and is also known to be the gateway to the ruins of Angkor—the seat of the Khmer Kingdom during the 9th–15th centuries. For an absolutely divine experience in Siem Reap, Amansara will be the perfect choice.

Pick from any of the 24 suites available at Amansara and you’d be pleased for sure. Did we mention that the Pool Suite features a private plunge pool too?

Charles De Gaulle, Krong Siem Reap, Cambodia
Tel: +855 63 760 333

Photo Credit: Aureum Bagan

AUREUM PALACE BAGAN HOTEL

Where: Minnanthu Village, Myanmar

To say that this hotel looks like it is fit for royalty would be an understatement. Aureum Palace in Bagan is one of Myanmar’s most luxurious hotels and one that you should definitely include on your bucket list.

Featuring antique artefacts and local arts on display around the entire hotel, this hotel is far from the minimal, aesthetically-pleasing boutique hotels that have been springing up everywhere.

Near Bagan Village Tower, Min Nanthu Village, Nyaung Oo, Old Bagan 11111, Myanmar
Tel: +95 61 60 046

Photo Credit: Bulgari Hotels

BULGARI RESORT

Where: Uluwatu, Bali

Bali is home to a plethora of luxurious hotels that will blow you away with their sheer beauty—Bulgari Resort is one of them. Situated 492 feet above sea level, the rooms here offer guests unobstructed views of the Indian Ocean.

Bulgari Resort is a 5-star resort in Uluwatu that is every romantic couple’s dream come true. What better way to complete an intimate trip with your loved one than a stay at such an extravagant resort?

Jalan Goa Lempeh, Banjar Dinas Kangin, Uluwatu, Pecatu, Kuta Sel., Kabupaten Badung, Bali 80361, Indonesia
Tel: +62 361 8471000

Photo Credit: Resort World Sentosa

EQUARIUS HOTEL OCEAN SUITE

Where: Singapore

Sleeping in a bedroom that is submerged underwater and surrounded by marine fishes? We reckon that the Equarius Hotel Ocean Suite is one that will leave you hooked and having a whale of a time.

Each Ocean Villa is fully equipped with a sunken bathtub and a floor-to-ceiling window where you can admire the spectacular views of majestic sea creatures. A stay at the Ocean Suite does not come cheap, but hey, it promises you an experience of your lifetime!

8 Sentosa Gateway, Sentosa Island
Resort World Sentosa
Singapore 098269
Tel: +65 6577 8899

Photo Credit: Enchanting Travels

FOUR SEASONS TENTED CAMP GOLDEN TRIANGLE

Where: Chiang Rai, Thailand

Set amidst a lush tropical jungle at Chiang Saen—a district within the Chiang Rai province—Four Seasons Tented Camp Golden Triangle provides guests with an adventurous accommodation with a luxurious touch.

You can expect the rooms to be donned with royal wooden decor and leather furnishings to compliment the rustic ambience.

499 MOO1 T. Vieng, Chiang Rai, Chiang Saen District, Chiang Rai 57150, Thailand
Tel: +66 53 910 200

Photo Credit: Enchanting Travel

GORA KADAN

Where: Hakone, Japan

Japan is not only home to crazy thematic cafes, but also beautiful, tranquil hotels that are nothing short of exquisite.

Located in an area known for its springs, Gora Kadan is a picturesque boutique hotel within the Japanese Highlands in Hakone. This is where you can get the perfect retreat and immerse yourself in the ancient Japanese way of life whilst getting majestic views of the city.

1300 Gora, Hakone, Ashigarashimo District, Kanagawa Prefecture 250-0408, Japan
Tel: +81 460-82-3331

Photo Credit: Travel Plus Style

HANGING GARDENS OF BALI

Where: Ubud, Bali

The Hanging Gardens of Bali is known to be one of the best hotels you can find in Bali that offers an extraordinary respite from the hustle and bustle of city life.

Planted in the heart of the mystical Ubud Jungle, the Hanging Gardens of Bali will grant you panoramic, breathtaking views of the Ayung River.

Banjar Susut, Desa Buahan, Payangan, Buahan, Payangan, Buahan, Payangan, Kabupaten Gianyar, Bali 80571, Indonesia
Tel: +62 361 982700

Photo Credit: Elegant Resorts

NIHI SUMBA

Where: Nihi Sumba Island, Indonesia

Situated on the beautifully rugged and remote Indonesian island of Sumba, which lies east of Bali, Nihi Sumba is a luxury hotel that is home to 32 villas surrounded by the briny waters of the Indian Ocean.

Here you may choose to surf the waves, try free-diving, hop onto an exhilarating horse-ride or simply spoil yourself silly with a spa session within the resort. Whatever it is, there is definitely something for everyone!

Hoba Wawi, Wanokaka, West Sumba Regency, East Nusa Tenggara, Indonesia
Tel: +62 361 757149

Photo Credit: South China Morning Post

MANDARIN ORIENTAL TAIPEI

Where: Taipei, Taiwan

Positing as Taipei’s most luxurious hotel, what you can expect from Mandarin Oriental Taipei are beautifully styled rooms, impeccable service and a plethora of dining options. A stay at Mandarin Oriental Taipei definitely comes with a hefty price tag, especially for the premium rooms such as the Deluxe and Presential Suite.

Lo and behold, a 376-square-metre Presidential Suite that is triple the size of a typical 5-room HDB flat in Singapore. Above shows just the living room of the presidential suite. Need we say more?

No. 158, Dunhua North Road, Taipei, 10548, Taiwan
Tel: +886 2 2715 6888

Photo Credit: My Boutique Hotel

PARK HYATT SHANGHAI

Where: Shanghai, China

Standing at 101 storeys high, Park Hyatt Shanghai is nestled atop the city’s World Financial Center and dwarfs the other skyscrapers of Pudong, Shanghai.

Each and every area of the hotel, including all of their 147 bedrooms available, have floor-to-ceiling windows that will grant guests the most marvellous vista of the city. This includes the Huangpu River as well as The Bund, which is the symbol of Shanghai.

100 Century Ave, LuJiaZui, Pudong Xinqu, Shanghai Shi, China, 200120
Tel: +86 21 6888 1234

Photo Credit: Raynatours

RAYAVADEE, KRABI

Where: Krabi, Thailand

Rayavadee is one of those secluded getaways hidden amidst lush tropical vegetation. This exclusive 100-pavilion property in Krabi, Southern Thailand is probably one that you should visit at least once in your life.

If you intend to visit with your family, then the Family Pavilion with Pool will be the perfect pick. Set within an eclosed tropical garden, this accommodation features 2 spacious bedrooms as well as a private pool and jacuzzi!

214 Tambon Ao Nang, Chang Wat Krabi 81000, Thailand
Tel: +66 75 620 740

Photo Credit: The Ritz Carlton

THE RITZ CARLTON SUITE, HONG KONG

Where: Hong Kong

A trip to The Ritz Carlton in Hong Kong will bring you all the way to cloud nine—literally. With its lobby situated on the 102nd storey of Kowloon’s International Commerce Centre, guests will get nothing short of a panoramic city view among the clouds.

Prior to booking a room, guests will be informed of what views the room has to offer—from partial mountain views to the oceanfront to a bird-eye’s view of the Victoria Harbour, guests will surely be spoilt for choice.

International Commerce Centre, 1 Austin Road West, Hong Kong, China
Tel: +852 2263 2263

Photo Credit: Shangri-La

SHANGRI-LA’S BORACAY RESORT & SPA

Where: Boracay, Phillippines

Shangri-La’s Boracay Resort & Spa is yet another amazing property by the renowned group. Nestled on a lush hillside surrounded by crystal clear waters, this 5-star resort serves as the perfect place for one to retreat.

For the utmost indulgence, the seaview suite will spoil you silly with its close proximity to the Punta Bunga Beach. This is where you can inhale the briny aroma of the surrounding waters, sip on a cocktail in your outdoor whirlpool bath and truly unwind.

Barangay Yapak, Boracay Island, Malay Aklan, 5608 Aklan, Philippines
Tel: +63 36 288 4988

Photo Credit: YTravelBlog

SONEVA KIRI, KOH KOOD, THAILAND

Where: Koh Kood, Thailand

Krabi, Ko Samui, Phuket—these names are known to many and very popular destinations for one to escape the hustle and bustle of city life. However, Koh Kood is Thailand’s unspoilt paradise is this island is the country’s hidden gem.

Surrounded by untamed jungles and pristine beaches on the island of Koh Kood, Soneva Kiri consists of 36 ultra-spacious pool villas located on the idyllic beach or sunny slopes in the rainforest.

110 Moo 4, Koh Kood Sub-District, Koh Kood District, Trat 23000, Thailand
Tel: +66 82 208 8888

Photo Credit: Sri Panwa

SRI PANWA RESORT

Where: Phuket, Thailand

Sri Panwa offers is one of the most luxurious resorts you can find in Phuket—here you can take your pick from pool suites, penthouses and villas. What’s more, each unit has its own infinity swimming pool!

Sri Panwa resort is extremely exclusive and private, making it the ideal place for an intimate getaway.

88 Sakdidej Road Vichit Muang Chang Wat Phuket 83000, Thailand
Tel: +66 76 371 000

Photo Credit: Six Senses

SIX SENSES LAAMU

Where: Maldives

Like many of the luxurious hotels in the Maldives, Six Senses Laamu sits on its own island. To get there, one would need to catch an hour-long flight and speed-boat transfer south from the international airport before arriving in paradise.

The resort sees a combination of on-land and over-water villas that are all nothing short of breathtaking. In addition, guests are reuested to stay barefooted throughout the entire trip to conserve the island to its utmost pristine condition.

Laamu Atoll 15090, Maldives
Tel: +960 680-0800

Photo Credit: LuxoIndia

TAJ LAKE PALACE, INDIA

Where: Udaipur, India

In a country home to countless majestic palaces and beautiful lakes, there really isn’t any better way to complete your trip than a stay at Taj Lake Palace.

Taj Lak Palace was constructed in 1746 and it is strategically located on the island of Jag Niwas in Lake Pichola. Their 83 guestrooms are all enveloped within marbled walls and majestic architecture surrounding it, while gardens, fountains, pillared terraces and columns line its courtyards.

Pichola, Udaipur, Rajasthan 313001, India
Tel: +91 294 242 8800

Photo Credit: Asia Travel

THE EMPIRE HOTEL & COUNTRY CLUB

Where: Brunei

The Empire Hotel & Country Club is easily one of the most, if not the most, prestigious and luxurious beach resorts in Brunei. This hotel is fit for royalty—every nook and cranny of the resort is decked with elegant furnishing that will surely bewitch you with its beauty.

You can expect Italian tailored bed linens, hand-tufted wool carpeting and exceptional hospitality that all comes together to reflect the country’s majestic and cultural heritage.

Jerudong Bg3122, Bandar Seri Begawan, Brunei Darussalam
Tel: +673 241 8888

Photo Credit: The Mulia

THE MULIA, BALI

Where: Nusa Dua, Bali

Yes, Bali definitely does not fall short when it comes to the number of hotels and resorts. If anything, Bali has everything ranging from economical resorts for budget travellers to the most lavish resorts for those who wish to indulge.

The Mulia is an award-winning beach resort in Bali which offers marvellous views of the Nusa Dua Bay. Take a dip in one of their 6 pools or engage in one of their many thrilling water sports and beach activities!

Jl. Raya Nusa Dua Selatan, Kawasan Sawangan, Nusa Dua, Benoa, Kuta Sel., Kabupaten Badung, Bali 80363, Indonesia
Tel: +62 361 3027777

Photo Credit: Oberoi Hotels & Resorts

THE OBEROI UDAIVILAS

Where: Udaipur, India

Inspired by the series of glittering palaces and pleasure pavilions sprouting up along the shore of Lake Pichola, The Oberoi Udaivilas is one of India’s newest addition to the slew of resorts—and an extremely extravagant and exquisite one at that.

Endowed with intricate layouts of interconnecting domes and corridors that reflects the layout of Udaipur itself, majestic front entrance doors and crystal chandeliers, you would feel as if you are set in a movie right from your first step into The Oberoi Udaivilas.

Haridasji Ki Magri, Mulla Talai, Udaipur – 313 001, Rajasthan, India
Tel: +91 294 2433300

Photo Credit: The St. Regis Maldives

THE ST. REGIS MALDIVES VOMMULI RESORT

Where: Vommuli Island, Maldives

Have you ever seen a resort quite as magnificent as this? The St. Regis Maldives Vommuli Resort opened in late 2016 and their overwater villas will definitely grant you the most epic vacation of your life.

They have 4 different types of overwater villas—some facing the beach where you can ravish the soft white sand in the distance, while the others will give you a panoramic view of the Indian Ocean. A stay at this luxurious resort will set you back a hefty amount, but hey, what’s life without some indulgence?

Vommuli Island, Dhaalu Atoll, Vommuli, Maldives
Tel: +960 676-6333

Photo Credit: W Hotel Koh Samui

W HOTEL, KOH SAMUI

Where: Koh Samui, Thailand

Koh Samui has no shortage of breathtaking hotels and the W is one of them—located between Maenam and Bophut on a white sand beach, W Hotel is one where you can truly relax and unwind.

W Hotel offers guests an extensive range of room types, with the most luxurious being the Extreme Wow Ocean Haven which boasts an insane 892 square metre space fully-equipped with state-of-the-art technology, designer lamps made with premium Thai silk and a jacuzzi tub!

4/1 Moo 1 Tambol Maenam Surat Thani Tambol Maenam Koh Samui TH-84, 84330, Thailand
Tel: +66 77 915 999

Photo Credit: Waldorf Astoria

WALDORF ASTORIA

Where: Beijing, China

Conveniently located a couple of minutes drive away from the city’s airport expressway and just a stone’s throw away from Tiananmen Square, the list of Waldorf Astoria’s merits goes on and on.

From the sleek and stylish lobby to the opulent bathrooms, be prepared to also be wowed by their indoor swimming pool located in the basement as well as the beautiful Chinese art decorations that adorn the walls.

5-15 Jinyu Hutong Dongcheng, Beijing, 100006, China
Tel: +86 010 85208989

Japan astounds in more ways than just its food and its people and wherever you choose to embark on your next adventure, we’re almost certain that you will not be disappointed. Our wanderlust brought us to Niigata, a coastal prefecture located north of bustling Tokyo. A lovely place untouched by time, and one that proves excellent for road trips.

Boasting the highest concentration of rice plantations and accounting for a majority of the country’s rice exports, there really is no wondering why Niigata is well-known for their excellent quality rice, rice wine (sake) and other rice-based products. Located close to the Japan Sea, fresh fish and seafood are often in abundance and of exceptional quality too.

Yet, as far as gastronomy goes, Niigata’s vast array of food choices come second only to the prefecture’s rich culture and a plethora of scenic views. Like lines in a sketch, the terraced rice paddies littered all over present a view like no place else. Each season brings with it a different ambience and having visited in Autumn, we were treated to stunning spectacles of technicoloured leaves and marvellous views wherever we were brought.

Brimming with breathtaking scenery, awesome food and inherently kind yet down-to-earth locals, you best believe us when we tell you that Niigata is a destination to consider if you crave adventure and new experiences. We’ve broken it all down for you, listing down how you can go about renting a car, where you should visit and what you should eat—you’re welcome.

RENT A CAR AT NIPPON DRIVE RENT-A-CAR IN MURAKAMI CITY

The journey toward Niigata prefecture takes about 2 hours via the Joetsu high-speed bullet train from Tokyo station—located 30 minutes from Haneda Airport. Our journey started at Murakami City, a castle township located just slightly north of Niigata City.

Located right outside Murakami Station, the Nippon Rental Car Depot is where you should first visit to kick-start your Niigata road trip proper. The staff may not be able to communicate in English effectively but they do have pamphlets available in multiple languages. Renting a car for a day is not very expensive either with a decent, standard car costing as little as 7000 yen (approx. S$85) for a day. It comes in mint condition with a navigational device in English.

STOP BY YURURI RESTAURANT FOR LUNCH

Once you’ve gotten your car settled, you could probably do with some grub and located just a short 5-minute drive away is Yururi Restaurant. Off their lunch set menu, you can find anything from rice bowls to soba, each of which features seasonal meat, fish and vegetables—a great way to taste a good variety of what Niigata can offer in terms of its products in just one meal.

We got ourselves the Tendon and Kaisen set, both of which came with a bowl of soba noodles in addition to rice. Fresh-tasting and decently priced, our first meal in Niigata kicked off pretty darn well at Yururi.

VISIT A SALMON SPECIALTY STORE (KIKKAWA)

If you’re a sucker for salmon, you’ll be thrilled to know that Murakami is famous for the stuff due to its proximity to Miomote River—a salmon hotspot basically. In fact, salmon has been a key element in sustaining the city’s financial backbone ever since the Edo period which explains why the people there are insanely proud of it.

Here in Murakami, there are over 100 different ways that the natives prepare salmon with the most common being salting and dry-curing, relying on the natural wind from the coastal breeze.

Don’t be alarmed at the number of salted salmon hanging in and around the houses here because it’s a norm, and scattered everywhere are little salmon speciality stores where you can find heaps of salmon-based products. Kikkawa is one such store and it truly is massive, selling anything and everything salmon-related from snacks, condiments to even salmon burgers which they make fresh daily

VISIT A TRADITIONAL TEA SHOP

The Murakami township is popular for their green tea and black tea varieties and you’re more than likely going to have no trouble finding a tea shop tucked in a corner somewhere. It might seem intimidating from the outside but don’t be shy and just waltz right in, the locals are extremely friendly and will do their utmost to serve you well despite the language barrier.

You can get the full tea-drinking experience with the added bonus of having your tea brewed over charcoal and an expert to prepare, serve and educate you about traditional Japanese tea and the art of tea-drinking.

SASAGAWA-NAGARE TOUR BOAT

For just a small fee, you get to go on a 45-minute boat ride meters away from the coastline to have a better view of the natural landforms as well as feed seagulls while you’re at it. Notable landforms include the Lion Rock, Eagle’s Nest and Dinosaur Rock.

Upon docking, be sure to stop by the fisherman’s wharf, where fresh fish is caught, treated and cooked fresh on an open grill. Fortunately for us, we arrived just in time to savour some fresh local ebi that was literally caught and carried off a fishing boat minutes prior.

DOYUNO: VEGGIE-TIME RESTAURANT

The thought of having a vegetarian meal in Japan might not appeal to many. In fact, some might find it a waste, but over at Doyuno Veggie-Time Restaurant, your impression just might change.

This is a proper as farm-to-table dining goes with all of the restaurant’s menu offerings coming straight from the farm. The experience starts off with a tour of the vegetable garden, of which guests will be educated on the different varieties of vegetables and herbs they grow, before letting you indulge in them all back at the restaurant.

Every recipe is designed specifically to the taste of each individual vegetable so depending on which season you visit, you just might have a different menu every other day.

As history has shown, the people of Tsuruoka have been and are, until today, incredibly reliant on vegetables for sustenance, largely because of their historical ascetic practice of Buddhism which disallows them to indulge in meat-based food.

FIVE-TIER PAGODA IN THE FOREST OF MT. HAGURO

Fancy a scenic trek through a thick cedar forest? The path leading toward Mt. Haguro is excellent and is a popular spot for both locals in search of a spiritual escape or simply just folks who’re looking to get some exercise in.

The lush greenery and the still, tranquil atmosphere is a pleasure to take in and is definitely a spot we recommend if you’re looking to get some solid portrait shots of yourself taken. The spiritual charm of the place comes in the form of shrines and little totems scattered all around the forest with a massive 5-tier pagoda located slightly deeper within.

KAMO AQUARIUM

The Kamo Aquarium in Yamagata Prefecture is in the Guinness Book of World Records for housing the world’s largest collection of jellyfish. Peculiar yet beautiful creatures nonetheless, a trip here will not be wasted. However, do note that the aquarium closes at 5pm so plan your time carefully if you do not want the drive down to be in vain.

LEARN THE WAYS OF THE SAMURAI AT THE UESUGI SHINTO SHRINE

If you’ve always had a fascination for Japan’s ancient warriors, the samurai, then perhaps a tour through the Uesugi Shinto Shrine should be right up your alley. Upon arrival, we were greeted by a quartet of samurai role-players, who, not only looked the part but also sounded and behaved like the proud samurai warriors of Edo-period Japan.

From learning to purify your body, to submit an offering to the Gods, the tour covers it all—if you dare to ask, they’ll probably even let you hold their weapons. The tour ends off with a 15-minute-long skit featuring the samurai warriors.

LOCAL DELICACY AT INAKAYA FURUMACHI OLD TOWN

Craving something authentic and exclusive to the Niigata prefecture, we were brought to try a local delicacy called Wappa Meshi at Inakaya Restaurant at Furumachi Old Town (basically the restaurant where the dish was born).

Wappa Meshi is a steamed dish consisting of steamed rice cooked using dashi that is topped with meat, or seafood cooked. It is steamed in a wooden box, similar to Chinese dim sum and the beauty of it is that the process allows for allows for the flavours of every component to marry well with one another.

The box itself, otherwise known as the ‘Mage-Wappa’ is a kind of container which was used as a lunch box by the folks who worked high up in the mountains and has been a tool of transporting food for over 600 years now.

We had a variety with some comprising chicken, salmon, ikura (salmon roe), local ebi and more. Every Wappa Moshi was cooked to utmost perfection and albeit looking simple, they each boasted incredible flavour.

PIA BANDAI FISH & FARMER’S MARKET

Anyone who’s anyone in the food industry would know of Japan’s highly acclaimed Tsukiji Fish Market—the home of some of the world’s best seafood. Well, in Niigata city, they have one similar called Pia Bandai.

The market stocks a considerable amount of Niigata speciality products such as rice, vegetables, fruits, sake, local fish, tidbits and more but its main appeal would be its wide array of fresh fish and seafood offerings. From unbelievably affordable uni (sea urchin) to thickly cut sashimi prepared fresh upon order, any seafood lover would be excited.

NORTHERN CULTURE MUSEUM + SAVOURING KOSHIHIKARI RICE

The Northern Culture Museum once belonged to one of the wealthiest family of landowners or ‘farmer lords’—as the local people refer to them as—in the Echigo area. However, it has long changed and while the massive complex astounds with its rustic, well-kept furnishings, perhaps one of the more interesting facts to note is that it is the only one in Japan that still stands.

You’d have to go on a tour for the full explanation but we promise you this is far more interesting than some mere museum walkthrough. The owners of the house were huge in the rice farming industry and provided rice of exceptional quality to all parts of Japan.

PONSHU-KAN – A SAKE LOVER’S HEAVEN

Located in Cocolo at Niigata Station, you’re bound to stumble upon a sake speciality store—Ponshu-Kan—right smack in the middle of it. The prefecture is known for their rice, so it is only natural that they’d be home to outstanding sake as well. Skilfully brewed with high-quality rice and spring water from the mountains, much of their sake take on a clean and refreshing taste.

At Ponshu-Kan, visitors can taste and sample their fill of all the major sake brands (¥500 for 5 samples) in Niigata and with more than a hundred labels to choose from, chances are you’ll be there for quite a while.

SHIRONE GRAPE GARDEN

It’s one thing to buy fresh fruits from the supermarket, let alone a farmer’s market, but to actually be able to pick your own fruits with your bare hands? That really is a killer experience. When in Niigata, you should definitely try your hand at fruit picking at the Shirone Grape Garden.

With grapes in the summer, pears in the fall, strawberries and more during winter through spring, this lovely fruit orchard allows you to enjoy fruit-picking all-year round. Their popular gelato is made using the seasonal fruits that they grow onsite too and if you’re a fan of Japan’s esteemed Kyoho grapes, you’ll be glad to know that you can pick those here too (or have them in gelato form).

UWASEKIGATA PARK – CHERRY BLOSSOM HOTSPOT IN SPRING

Considered Niigata’s national park, this vast and beautiful park is popular for numerous reasons. On weekends, the park is open for people to have barbecues and picnics and is also a great place for photographers and fitness gurus.

During the spring season, the park itself is said to boast spectacular displays of cherry blossoms but during other parts of the year, the park also plays host to a myriad of artistic sculptures and the ones that we were fortunate to see were the animal ones made using rice straws.

KOKAJIYA – ITALIAN-JAPANESE CUISINE

When in Japan, to eat any cuisine other than Japanese cuisine would not the most ideal, but we beg to differ, or at least at Kokajiya Restaurant. Fusing together Italian recipes and culinary techniques but relying heavily on local produce derived from Niigata itself. From their pasta to their mains, all of their food nicely tie together the best of both cuisine’s culinary disciplines and flair.

The result? Possibly one of the best Italian dishes we ever had. Period.

YAHIKOYAMA ROPE WAY – STUNNING VIEWS OF THE LAND BELOW

To round off your trip on an epic note, there’s nothing quite as majestic as a stunning sunset view a couple of hundred metres above sea level. At the Yahikoyama Rope Way, not only were we treated to a gorgeous 360-degree view of the land below, but the sunset—coupled with the mountain breeze—marked one heck of a solid end to our 5D4N adventure in the Niigata prefecture of Japan.

This post was brought to you by Niigata City, Murakami City, Tsuruoka City and Yonezawa City.