ABOUT
About this spot
Niigata City History Museum Minatopia is a beautiful historic spot near the mouth of the Shinano River, at the former gateway to Niigata. On the spacious grounds stand the Former Niigata Customs House (a nationally designated Important Cultural Property), built in the Meiji era and the only surviving customs house of the five ports opened to foreign trade, and the Former Daishi Bank Sumiyoshi-cho Branch, an early-Showa bank building that has been relocated and restored, vividly preserving the atmosphere of the port town of Niigata. The museum's main building, modeled after the exterior of the former Niigata City Hall, has a stately design and offers rich exhibits themed on Niigata's "water" and "port." There are also hands-on corners where you can enjoyably learn about the region's history, so people of all ages from children to adults can enjoy it. At dusk, the museum is sometimes lit up, making it popular as a romantic walking course against the backdrop of the Shinano River. After touching history, we also recommend relaxing at the restaurant and cafe on the grounds. It is a great place for sightseeing with friends or family, or for a quiet solo journey through history.
Last updated March 27, 2026