Not Just Winter! Autumn in Niigata is Also a Must-Visit

When you think of Niigata, skiing often comes to mind, and many tourists visit during the winter season. However, Niigata in autumn is a hidden gem, perfect for enjoying the serene beauty of autumn foliage! Here, we introduce the "Top 3 Autumn Foliage Spots in Echigo." There's even a stamp rally to visit all three locations, so why not enjoy the autumn leaves while collecting stamps? 1️⃣ Momiji-en in Nagaoka City This expansive 4,000-square-meter garden is home to various maple trees, including the Iroha maple. From early to mid-November, the garden is illuminated at night, creating a magical atmosphere. 📍600 Asahi, Nagaoka City, Niigata Prefecture 🚃 10-minute walk from JR Raikoji Station 2️⃣ Yahiko Park Momiji Valley Registered as a Japan Nightscape Heritage site, this spot is breathtakingly beautiful. The combination of moonlight and autumn leaves is a must-see. Don't miss the giant ginkgo tree, over 300 years old and 20 meters tall, which is also illuminated at night! 📍Yahiko Village, Nishikanbara District, Niigata Prefecture 🚃 About a 1-minute walk from JR Yahiko Line "Yahiko Station" 🚗 About 25 minutes by car from Hokuriku Expressway "Sanjo-Tsubame IC" 3️⃣ Shoun Sansou This picturesque Japanese garden is enveloped in the deep crimson of nature. In addition to maples, you can also enjoy the gradient colors of the Enkianthus shrubs. 📍3 Midori-cho, Kashiwazaki City, Niigata Prefecture 🚃 20-minute walk from JR Kashiwazaki Station 🚗 About 15 minutes by car from Hokuriku Expressway Kashiwazaki IC or Yoneyama IC