Transportation The Yumezora or Dream Sky Train Rufus Starbuck The Yumazora runs through hilly terrain and spends much of its time in tunnels. To make things more interesting, sound & light shows..
Culture Mano Town, Sado Island Jonathan Perry Enjoying the fine scenery and free alcohol of Mano Town
Activities 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..
Activities Iwappara Ski Resort Rufus Starbuck Smallish, ski resort in Iwappara, just outside of Iwappara that has plenty of ski-in, ski-out accommodation and wide, gentle slopes..
Activities Ipponsugi Ski Resort Rufus Starbuck A tiny family run ski resort right in the center of Yuzawa town within walking distance of the station. Great for families and those..
12 Culture Niigata's Saito Family Summer Villa Tomoko Kamishima In 1918, a wealthy merchant in Niigata, Saito Kijuro (IV), built a beautiful summer villa; carefully and spaciously planned for..
Food Ishin Tsukemen Restaurant in Yuzawa Rufus Starbuck Two ramen shops on R17 in Yuzawa. One offers traditional ramen, the other tsukemen with the soup and noodles separate. The noodles..
Accommodation The Italia Ken Hotel in Niigata Tomoko Kamishima The Italia Ken, a long-established hotel located in Niigata city’s famous old district, Furumachi, still keeps its unique flav..