Cupid Valley – In the Heart of Snow Country
Nestled between the Myoko and Yuzawa ski areas of Niigata is the smaller and less well-known Cupid Valley - also known as Yukidaruma Kogen, or Snowman Plateau/Heights! Being off the main track it is usually quieter and less crowded than bigger resorts, yet still has runs up to 4km, and many things to enjoy in a day trip.
Niigata Sake Guide – 6 Amazing Sake Breweries for Your Itinerary
Packed with historical breweries producing some of the most distinct and high-quality sake in Japan, Niigata’s sake history dates back hundreds of years.
Sado Island – A Peaceful Spot Where You Can Escape
Sado is a peaceful island situated off the coast of Niigata Prefecture. It is accessible by ferries running every hour or so between Niigata and Ryotsu Ports. If you are not worried about missing the only ferry of the day, you can also jump on in Naoetsu and get off in the little town of Ogi.
Magical Myoko – Why This Could Be Your Next Snow Sports Destination
Let me share with you why this place makes for a great snow sports holiday for all, and more! The huge resort area actually takes in four major parks and three smaller areas, with over 60 courses ranging from 900 m to 8,500 m: something for boarders, skiers and snow-scooters of all levels and ages!
Looking For a Quiet Pocket of Powder? You’ve Found It At Charmant Ski Hiuchi Snow Resort, Niigata!
Charmant is a lovely, compact resort that can be enjoyed by all! People of all ages: skiers, snowboarders and ski scooters of all levels. Oh! I forgot to mention! Great snow? Charmant is renowned for huge dumps of snow and deep powder, and a long winter season!
A Showcase Beautiful Humankind Through Moving Music – The Earth Celebration on Sado Island
Sado, the largest island in Japan, is usually a quiet, peaceful island. But every year for the three-day Earth Celebration (EC) in August, the island transforms into a lively, international hub. Presented by world-renowned taiko drumming ensemble Kodo, EC is a music festival that brings performing art talents together from within and outside of Japan.
Escaping the Heat – Great Spots to Go to Keep Cool in Japan this Summer
In summer, in central Japan, such temperatures are normal. Perhaps even more stifling than the heat, however, is the humidity. Even a simple walk to the local convenience store can leave you drenched in sweat and gasping for breath. Or, maybe I just need to work out more!
Around the City in One Day – Niigata City Bus Tour
Niigata City is the biggest city in Niigata prefecture, an extremely underrated part of Japan with a mixture of the old and modern parts of Japanese history. This blend makes it a sight to behold with much to see and do. I decided to see for myself what was on offer in Niigata by taking a bus tour.
A Town With Kimono Pride – Tokamachi's Kimono Craze
To this day the area still produces a vast number of kimono, coming in second only to Japan’s cultural hub of Kyoto. The people of Tokamachi are extremely proud of their home grown artisanship, and host a number of events in May showing their deep connection to Japan’s traditional dress.
Rice Harvest in Niigata – When a City Girl Tries to Become a Japanese Rice Farmer
As Niigata is one of Japan’s top producers for rice and rice wine (sake), one of the best ways to connect to the local community is of course, getting on the rice fields!
Ponshukan Sake Museum: Bathe in Japanese Rice Wine? Yes, It’s Possible!
As a “theme park” for Japanese rice wine (sake), Ponshukan is located inside three major JR stations in Niigata — Niigata, Nagaoka, and Echigo Yuzawa. In each of them, you will be able to fill your heart with not only rice wine, but also rice-related products, pickled foods, and interesting take-home items.
Naena Falls and Nagashi Somen: Catch Flowing Noodles at This Niigata Waterfall
Located in the mountains of Myoko City, southern Niigata Prefecture, Naena Waterfall provides a more-than-average waterfall experience. The drive to the waterfall is especially spectacular: you will be surrounded by dense trees and boundless rice paddies along the way.