The carbohydrate base of Japanese cuisine, and moreover a provider of amazing flavors through sake and mirin, the importance of rice can’t be overstated. You need open land, and massive supplies of high quality water, both of which Niigata boasts much of. The Shinano river, the longest in Japan, runs through Uonuma city, and the “Koshi Hikari” brand of rice here is widely considered the best. You can enjoy the fresh rice harvest at local restaurants in late October, and the local sake breweries, such as the famous Hakkaisan Brewery begin their batches to be enjoyed the following year.

Niigata offers a more serene and calming experience than compared to say, the buzz and excitement of cities like Osaka and Tokyo. Aside from the light, refined dining experiences, enjoy some of the art museums nearby. In Tokamachi, you’ll find the “Museum on Echigo-Tsumari, MonET”, featuring art installations both large and small. There’s a lovely cafe inside with hundreds of books for browsing, and this is also where they broadcast Tokamachi’s public radio station. The souvenir shop within is sensible, selling art pieces, apparel, and local goods.