Cherry blossom trees along Kaji River

The Kaji River, flowing from the Iide Mountains to the Sea of Japan, is lined with a spectacular cherry blossom promenade. Initially planted around 1915, these cherry trees grew to number around 6,000, drawing visitors nationwide as a major hanami (flower viewing) spot. However, the great floods of 1966 and the following year necessitated the cutting down of many trees, but restoration efforts have since revived about 2,000 trees, returning it to a popular viewing destination.

Tsukioka Onsen Area

Among the renowned hot springs in Niigata, Tsukioka Onsen is famous for its high sulfur content, known for its beautifying properties and dubbed "Beauty's Spring." The hot spring town is perfect for strolling, equipped with footbaths and shops. The surrounding area boasts attractions such as the radium-rich Gozu Onsen region, the Agano River known for boat rides and steam locomotives, and Shibata, a town retaining the charm of an Edo-period castle town.