Welcome to the family guide for Niigata on the weekend of February 28th and March 1st, 2026! This is your last chance to catch some fantastic winter art installations, like the SNOWART project, and enjoy the tail end of seasonal fun. We've curated the best spots for creative play and unique local experiences.
See our top picks
Plum Blossom Season at Hakusan Park 2026
Hakusan Park
Enjoy the first signs of spring for free in the park.
Mystery Solving Training "The Three-Colored Document"
Kashiwazaki Yume no Mori Park
An indoor puzzle challenge perfectly suited for family teamwork.
Tainai Hinamatsuri 2026
Tainai City
View colorful, elaborate Hina doll displays for a peaceful afternoon.
· February 28
7WORKSHOP: NEVER ENDING CUTTING - SHOOT AND CONNECT, LOOP VIDEO COMPETITIONFREE : Get creative at this special workshop related to the ongoing art exhibition. Kids can learn to shoot and connect video clips to create fun, looping visuals.This is a one-day-only creative workshop tied to the major art festival happening in the region.
FREE : Check out this massive snow hut (Honyaradou) structure built on the pond at the MonET museum. It’s a unique spot to gather, feel the snow, and take amazing photos.It runs on Saturdays and this is one of the last weekends of the season (runs until Mar 8th).
ECHIGO-TSUMARI ART FIELD WINTER “SNOWART” 2026 : This is the annual Snow Art Project featuring impressive art installations scattered around the snow country. This weekend is the last chance to see many of these pieces before the event concludes on March 8th.It's the primary winter art event, and this weekend is one of the final opportunities to attend.
: If you are staying at the Belnatio resort, don't miss this brief evening show featuring live drumming and lighting effects right near the lobby.It's a specific, short performance happening only on Saturday night.
MYSTERY SOLVING TRAINING "THE THREE-COLORED DOCUMENT" : This is an indoor mystery-solving game designed specifically for parents and children to tackle together. Great for a cold or snowy afternoon indoors.This event is indoor, tailored for families, and happens on Saturday.
: Enjoy skiing or snowboarding on the vast slopes at Maiko Resort. Late February usually means fantastic powder conditions, perfect for a Saturday outdoor adventure.Ski resorts are operating this weekend, and this is a major venue open until late March.
: Try solving a time-leap mystery mission inside the aquarium in Joetsu City. This is a unique interactive game perfect for older kids who like puzzles.It's an interactive mystery game running this Saturday that blends science/nature with puzzle-solving.
· March 1
5FREE : Look for the first signs of spring! While late March might be peak bloom, this park celebration kicks off when the early blossoms appear, and entry is totally free.A beautiful, free outdoor activity signaling the transition from winter, occurring on Sunday.
: See art displayed outside traditional settings. This exhibition runs until March 22nd, making Sunday a great day to visit while you are out exploring other art events.It’s an affordable art experience that runs through Sunday.
FREE : See a wonderful display of Hina dolls celebrating the Girls' Day festival tradition. It’s a free, colorful indoor event perfect for a Sunday afternoon.Hinamatsuri events are a major cultural highlight, and this one runs through March 1st.
JOETSU KOKUSAI SKI RESORT OPEN : This large resort offers a huge variety of courses, so there is definitely something for every skill level in the family this Sunday.Another major ski venue still running, offering families a full day of winter sports.
: Explore historical tools and artifacts related to rice cultivation at the Kashiwazaki City Museum. It's a great way to learn about Niigata's agricultural heritage.This local history exhibit runs until March 8th, making Sunday an option to visit.
Also On· anytime this weekend
3: If you can make the trip to Sado Island, the winter term offers a unique mix of Noh performance, local food, and modern art experiences.This festival runs until March 8th, making this weekend a good opportunity to visit Sado for the art experience.
: If you are looking for excellent powder, Kagura is operating and runs the longest season in the area, offering great snow conditions right through this weekend.It has defined operating hours which is useful for planning a Saturday trip.
: Head to the NSG Museum for an exhibition focusing on traditional Japanese paintings of flowers, fruits, and vegetables. A quiet, culturally rich indoor activity for Sunday.An accessible indoor museum event running on Sunday.
Frequently Asked Questions
What free kids events are on in Niigata this weekend?
This weekend (Feb 28-01) there are two confirmed free events: the Plum Blossom Season at Hakusan Park on Sunday and the Outdoor Exhibition: Honyaradou -Snow Meeting- on Saturday.
Are there any last-chance winter activities happening this weekend?
Yes, the Echigo-Tsumari Art Field Winter “SNOWART” 2026, the Tainai Hinamatsuri 2026, and the Sado Island Galaxy Art Festival all conclude within the next week or two, making this weekend a great final visit.
What outdoor activities are suitable for families on Saturday, February 28th?
For outdoor fun on Saturday, consider visiting one of the many operating ski resorts like Maiko Snow Resort or hitting the slopes at Kagura Ski Resort for some late-season powder.
