Niigata, Japan
Niigata, Japan
Description
Traditionally famous for rice making and sake production, Niigata is the place for gourmet aficionados. It is also well known for the seafood caught from the Sea of Japan. With this variety of the commodity produced locally, Niigata developed from the wealth gained through shipping and trade by Kitamae-bune, which were cargo ships operated along the Sea of Japan between Hokkaido and Osaka from mid-18th century to the end of the 19th century.
To the south of Niigata is the Tsubame-Sanjo area famous today for metalworking. This derives from the production of Japanese nails used for Japanese traditional architecture. To discover Japanese craftsmanship, you will have the chance to visit the Suwada Open Factory. Also nearby is the religious center of Niigata in Yahiko. The Yahiko Shrine has gathered the devotion of the locals for more than a millennium.
Points of Interest
- Bakauke observation floor
- Sake Brewery
- North Culture Museum
- Suwada Open Factory
- Roadside station Tubamesanjo
- Yahiko Shrine
- Teradomari Fish Market
- Iwamuro onsen
More about Niigata, Japan Points of Interest
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Bakauke observation floor -
Climb up to the 31st floor of Hotel Nikko Niigata for a 360-degree view of central Niigata. If the weather if clear the island of Sado may be visible out to the Sea of Japan.
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Sake Brewery -
For Japanese sake, rice is the most important ingredient. Niigata is the biggest rice producing region in Japan and its rice is known for good quality all over the country.
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North Culture Museum -
Once the residence of the Itoh clan which was one of the most prosperous farmers in Niigata, this facility showcases how the rich soil of Niigata enabled the family of one farmer to gain such high social status. Marvel at the grandeur of the residence which is a clear sign of the wealth of the Ito clan.
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Suwada Open Factory -
Located in the city of Sanjo, the factory produces high quality cutting tools of various purposes. Utilizing the blade-making technique developed through the course of time in Sanjo, this is where traditional technique lives in modern times.
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Roadside station Tubamesanjo -
Locally manufactured tableware and other metal products are available here.
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Yahiko Shrine -
Locally manufactured tableware and other metal products are available here.
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Teradomari Fish Market -
Niigata is just as well known for seafood as it is for rice. Fresh catches are transported directly from the Teradomari fish harbor.
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Iwamuro onsen -
The hot spring (onsen) of Iwamuro is said to be effective for neuralgia, backache, recovery from exhaustion among other efficacies. Located at the foot of Mt. Yahiko, the area offers spectacular views throughout the year.