Niigata

Niigata

Sado Gold Mine Easy walk
Chubu

Sado Mine: The Mountain That Bleeds Gold

Off Niigata, the Sado gold mine: frozen tunnels, the industrial ruins of Kitazawa and the giant gash of Dōyū-no-wareto. A spectacular, uneasy UNESCO site.

Quiet
Half-day
Quaint Japanese mountain village alleyway, traditional architecture Easy walk
Chubu

Tsutsuishi: Where fine days dissolve in smiles

One beautiful summer morning, I head for Tsutsuishi on the local train.

Quiet
Half day (about 3–5 hours) including travel from Itoigawa; 1–2 hours if already nearby and just exploring the station, village lane, and sea-front huts.
Enchanting Graceful Beauty Forest: Elegant trees, warm sunlight, inviting exploration of majestic natural beauty. Easy walk
Autumn

Bijin Bayashi: The Forest of Pretty Women

Where are these pretty women? In the forest of Bijin Bayashi! And they’re everywhere! Above, below, and all around you.

Some crowds
Morning visit / about 2–3 hours (the forest is compact; the ‘photo-spot game’ section can be done in ~20 minutes).
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