Niigata, a land where industry has developed by taking advantage of the rich nature
Feature
Niigata is a prefecture located on the Sea of Japan side of central Honshu. The population is about 2.17 million and the Prefectural capital is located in Niigata City. Due to the influence of the monsoon from the Sea of Japan side, there is a lot of rainfall, and heavy snow falls in the mountainous areas in winter.
The longest river in Japan, the Shinano River, runs through the central part of Niigata. Niigata has the highest rice production in Japan. This is because the abundant water of the Shinano River, the vast plains, and the summer climate are suitable for rice cultivation.
The Nagaoka Fireworks Festival, which is held every year on August 2nd and 3rd in Nagaoka City, is one of the three biggest fireworks festivals in Japan. Over 1 million visitors will visit in two days.
Traditional crafts and Local specialties
Niigata's traditional crafts are "Uetsu Shinafu" and "Niigata Shikki".
Uetsu Shinafu is a textile craft made in Murakami City. The raw material is fiber from the bark of trees. The fibers are used to make threads and weave them into a cloth. It is used for kimono obi and tapestries.
Niigata Shikki is a lacquer ware made around Niigata City. It features a wide range of designs, such as simple ones without patterns and mottled patterns peculiar to Niigara Shikki.
Niigata, which faces the Sea of Japan, is rich in seafood such as yellowtail, crabs, and shrimp. Niigata's specialty is sake made from rich rice and high-quality water. The number of Sake breweries in Niigata is the largest in Japan.
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