Activities Yahiko Chrysanthemum Festival 2026 Nov 1st - Nov 24th The Yahiko Chrysanthemum Festival is held on the grounds of the picturesque Yahiko Shrine. It is the largest chrysanthemum festival..
11 Outdoors Tokamachi Snow Festival in Niigata Manish Prabhune The Tokamachi Snow Festival has snow sculptures, night time illumination and music shows in the quiet town of Tokamachi, Niigata
Winter Sports Early Season Skiing at Kagura Rufus Starbuck Ski Season in Yuzawa kicks off when Kagura opens at the end of November each year. How much early snow has fallen plays a big part..
Sports & Fitness Awashima Island Bryan Baier Awashima is a small, remote island with amazing scenery and clear blue water perfect for snorkeling.
Activities Joetsu Aquarium Umigatari Kim Bergström Niigata is blessed with two world class aquariums - one in Niigata City, and another in Joetsu. The Joetsu Aquarium Umigatari sits..
7 Activities The Green Season at Lotte Arai Resort Rufus Starbuck Lotte Arai is well known as a winter ski resort but it also has plenty to offer in the summer. The Lotte Arai hotel features good..
Camping & Trekking Shinetsu Trail, Part 2 Rowland Douglas Part two: the Shinetsu trail a 4-6 day hike, running north-east from Mt. Madarao by Lake Nojiri. Moderately strenuous but not technically..