Niigata City

Niigata City

Niigata City is the prefectural capital of Niigata Prefecture. It is one of the largest cities facing the Sea of Japan in Honshu. The city spreads around the plains near the mouth of the Shinano River, the longest one in the country.
Since old times, it prospered as a way port of ships called Kitamaesen. In the last days of the Edo era (mid-19th Century), the Treaty of Amity and Commerce between the United States of America and the Empire of Japan was signed and it was chosen as one of the five ports under this treaty. Even today, it is considered as an important sea transportation junction and the area has many shopping malls and restaurants that are always crowded with customers.
Blessed with fertile land and a busy fishing port, the area produces a great variety of agricultural products and seafood. Many farms are found in the suburbs, an area also known as the production center of delicious Sake.
Nearby are many sightseeing spots as well including Mt. Yahiko known to offer an exquisite view of the Sea of Japan and Senami Hot Spring facing the Sea of Japan famous for its beautiful sunset.