Unlock Niigata, Japan | A Hidden Gem

| A hidden gem. Hey everyone👋, today I'm going to share an amazing travel destination with you—Niigata, Japan🎉! This place is a seriously underrated hidden gem, with stunning scenery and few crowds. It's the perfect place to relax and unwind. Follow this guide and start your dream trip! 🏞️【Must-See Attractions】 👉Kiyotsu Gorge: Wow😍, the gorge scenery here is absolutely breathtaking, with different beauty in each season. Spring is full of flowers, summer is lush and green, autumn is a riot of color, and winter is a wonderland of snow. There's also a super cool modern art installation called the "Tunnel of Light," which is perfect for photos. From Echigo-Yuzawa Station, take an express bus towards Morimiyanohara. It's about a 25-minute ride to the Kiyotsu Gorge entrance bus stop, and then a 30-minute walk. Tickets are ¥1,000 for adults and ¥400 for children. The scenery along the way is definitely worth the price. 👉Hoshitoge Rice Terraces: It's no wonder this place was selected as one of the "100 Best Villages in Japan"👏. If you're lucky, you can catch a glimpse of the dreamy sea of clouds in the early morning. When the rice paddies are filled with water, they look like a giant "water mirror," reflecting the blue sky, white clouds, green mountains, and trees. It's truly stunning. 👉Sado Island: This island off the coast of Niigata is a treasure trove of natural beauty and cultural heritage. Explore the rugged coastline, visit the gold mines, and experience the traditional taiko drumming. 👉Bandai Bridge: Built in the early Showa era, this is a landmark of Niigata. Standing on the bridge, you can enjoy the scenery of the Shinano River and the cityscape. The view is especially beautiful in the evening when the lights come on. 👉Northern Culture Museum: This museum preserves the former residence of an Echigo landowner. Stepping inside is like traveling back in time. You can admire the exquisite Chisen Kaiyu-style garden and the various collections of past owners. The garden scenery changes with the seasons, and there's always something new to see. 👉Yahiko Shrine: Located at the foot of Mount Yahiko, this shrine is tranquil and spiritual, with a beautiful torii gate and a majestic main hall. Take the cable car to the top of Mount Yahiko for a panoramic view of the surrounding mountains and the sea of clouds. It's like a fairyland. 😋【Culinary Delights】 👉Terao Fish Market: This fish market in Nagaoka City is a paradise for seafood lovers😍! Fresh and delicious seafood such as crabs and oysters are available. Buy and eat on the spot, and experience the lively market atmosphere. 👉Niigata Senbei Kingdom: This is a super fun interactive rice cracker museum. Not only can you buy all kinds of delicious handmade snacks, but you can also learn how to make rice crackers yourself and take them home as souvenirs. 👉Seaweed Soba: This cut soba noodle is made with "funori" seaweed and served in a special "hegi" bowl. The unique flavor and smooth texture are a Niigata specialty. You must try it. 👉Red Snow Crab: The red snow crab from the Sea of Japan is top-quality in Niigata, and the price is reasonable. Don't miss out on this delicacy if you love crab. 👉Niigata Sake: Niigata is a famous sake-producing region in Japan. The sake here is as refreshing as a mountain spring and as fragrant as spring flowers. You must try it while you're here. 🎿【Ski Paradise】 👉GALA Yuzawa Snow Resort: This is a paradise for ski lovers👏. It's easily accessible from Tokyo Station by Shinkansen in just 75 minutes, making it easy for a day trip. The resort is spacious, so you can enjoy skiing to your heart's content. 👉Naeba Ski Resort: With a dazzling array of slopes, there's something for everyone, from gentle slopes for beginners to challenging ones for experts. There are also various snow activities, so no matter your skill level, you'll have a blast. ✈️【Travel Guide】 There are two convenient ways to get to Niigata. One is to fly to Tokyo and then take the Joetsu Shinkansen from Tokyo Station to Niigata. The train ride takes about 2 hours, and you can enjoy the scenery along the way. The other is to fly directly to Niigata Airport if there are direct flights from your city. Everyone, be sure to save this guide and plan a trip to Niigata. Trust me, it will be an unforgettable travel experience🥰!