Description of Joetsu region
The Joetsu region is located centrally in a north-south direction of Japan’s main island, facing the Sea of Japan, and southwestern part of Niigata prefecture. The central city of the region, Joetsu, is home to Kasugayama Castle, the primary fortress of feudal warlord Uesugi Kenshin. The Seki River is running through the center of the city area. The lowland along this river is surrounded by mountains and coastal area, offering a varied topography making the land rich in beautiful natural sceneries that changes according to the seasons.
The Joetsu region has prospered as one of the key junctions of trade since old days. Even today, it is one of the foremost local cities with well-established land/sea traffic network, including Naoetsu Port, one of the major ports in Japan, Hokuriku Expressway, Joshin-etsu Expressway, JR Shin’etsu Main Line and newly opened Hokuriku Shinkansen as well as other major railroads to connect three major metropolitan areas in a short traveling time.
In winter, this region turns to one of the heaviest snowfall area in the country. Agriculture, forestry and fisheries bring in a huge wealth to this regions blessed with rich natural environment with sea, mountains and land, having played an important role in forming its unique lifestyle, climate, history and culture. The excellent rice and sake as well as “good heart of the local people” are the big appeal for the visitors. Please come visit us and enjoy your stay.
Four seasons in Joetsu
Spring has come. Cherry blossoms and night illumination
Hot summer. Bathing in the Sea of Japan
Autumn, season of harvest. Rice harvest
Cold winter. Heartwarming snow garden lantern
Season’s highlight
Spring: One of the three major spots in Japan to enjoy cherry blossoms at night
Summer: Lotus Festival, Kenshin Festival
Autumn: Sake Festival (sponsored by local sake breweries, etc.)
Winter: Snow Festival (Birthplace of skiing in Japan)
Introduction to signature agricultural products
Rice
Please enjoy the Joetsu-produced delicious rice grown in an environment best suited for rice farming.
Japanese Sake
Good rice and good water make tasty sake. Why don’t you have a sip?
[Joetsu Area Farm Stay Promotion Council] Enquiries025-520-6121Open hours: 10 a.m. – 4 p.m. [ Except Saturdays, Sundays, National holidays and closed-days prescribed by the Council ]