Niigata: An Indescribably Beautiful City

My first visit to Niigata was prompted by the Nagaoka Fireworks Festival. Flying directly to Niigata via Tigerair, I was impressed by the small yet efficient airport. After clearing customs, I took a bus to the city center, which took about 30-40 minutes. Although the bus was crowded with passengers and their luggage, the relatively short ride made it manageable.

Upon arriving at Niigata JR Station, I found it conveniently connected to the COCOLO department store and the Shinkansen platform, making travel to places like Nagaoka very easy. After enjoying the Nagaoka fireworks, I had two days and one night to explore Niigata's city attractions.

The area around the station offers plenty of shopping options, including department stores, drugstores, Yodobashi Camera, Big Camera, and Don Quijote, which is about a 15-minute walk from the south exit. Dining options are abundant, with food courts in the department stores and various eateries in the alleys opposite the station. A short ride to Bandai brings you to more shopping centers, and the view from Bandai Bridge is stunning.

Initially, I explored the city on foot. Perhaps due to the fireworks event, the streets were almost deserted, and by 8 PM, even the shopping streets were eerily quiet. However, this tranquility allowed me to capture many beautiful photos.

I struggled to find the right words to describe Niigata. Osaka reminds me of Taichung, and Tokyo resembles the Xinyi District in Taipei, but Niigata defies comparison. Perhaps this unique charm is what makes the city so captivating.

If given the chance, I would love to delve deeper into this beautiful city. Until next time, Niigata!

Post by アメです | Sep 12, 2025