Hometown of Uesugi Kenshin

Uesugi Kenshin (1530–1578) was one of the most celebrated warlords of the Sengoku (“Warring States”) period (1467–1568). He was born in what is now the city of Joetsu and rose to become the most powerful figure in Echigo Province (present-day Niigata Prefecture) and all of eastern Japan, during a time of civil war and instability.

A journey of connection of St. Shinran

It was 800 years ago that St. Shinran, the founder of the Jodo sect of Buddhism, was banished by Echigo Kokufu (Now Naoetsu) because of religious pressure in 1207. It is said he spent 4 years in Kotagahama until his crimes were forgiven and another 3 years before he moved to Hitachi (now Ibaraki Prefecture).

The Takada Castle Town with 400 Years History

The castle town of Takada was made together with the construction of Takada Castle in the year Keicho 19-nen (1614).In the year of Heisei 26-nen (2014), Takada celebrated its 400th year of history.

Discovering the Pioneers of Joetsu City

Japanese modern history started from the Meiji restoration. There are people called "great men and predecessors" who overcame numerous hardships and did their best in a turbulent era that experienced civilization and enlightenment, the industrial revolution, and two world wars.

This is the Real Thing! Have an Unforgettable Experience in Joetsu

Joetsu, where you can encounter both history and nature.We will welcome you with a rich menu as below.Food culture experience: make and enjoy local delicious foods Village life experience: enjoy agriculture,

The Morning Market in Joetsu

It’s said that if you want to know about any place, visit the local market first.We have four traditional morning markets in Joetsu that marked their 100th year of operation in 2010. The markets are very popular and act as a "local kitchen" among the residents.

Take a Bite! Farmers' Market Tour

We introduce the farmers' markets ("chokubaijo" in Japanese) in Joetsu where you can buy fresh vegetables and fruits. Fresh and nutritious agricultural produce and other local food items are offered with pride by each producers.

Whew! Take a breather at these "Roadside Stations"

You can find these "Roadside Stations” along your journey. In Joetsu city, there are three such Road Stations: "Umi Terrace Nadachi, " "Yoshikawa Touji no Sato" and "Yuki no Furusato Yasuzuka."

Look at All There! The Cultural Heritage Sites of Joetsu

Joetsu boasts the largest number of cultural properties in the entire prefecture.This clearly shows that Joetsu City has prospered as the capital of Echigo Province (now Niigata Prefecture) since ancient times.

"Take it Easy" Hot Springs Day Trips

The clear water, clean air, and beautiful nature give visitors peace of mind, and the pretty flowers bring smiles to their faces."Jon-nobi" means, "taking it easy and relaxing" in the Niigata dialect.

Delicious Joetsu Sake Tasting Tour

Snowfall in winter makes for clean spring water which raises rice, which turns to sake by the hand of the master brewer.Rich nature and climate suitable for sake brewing, and Niigata's well-known sake.

Midsummer Beach Tours

With the opening of the Hokuriku Shinkansen, Joetsu sea became the closest sea of ​​Japan from the Tokyo metropolitan area. The water quality is the most appealing point. Please enjoy the hot summer at Joetsu Beach.

Discover the Magical Charm of Nature: Campground Collection

If you want to enjoy the outdoors in magnificent nature at a reasonable price, then go camping! You can heal your mind and body in nature. You can also test yourself with a survival experience!

We Love the Mountains! Mountain Climbing and Trekking Courses

From beginners to advanced climbers, there are mountains of various levels.Do not overdo it when hiking in the mountains. But at the moment you reach the top of the mountain, you are sure to find an indescribable view and feel something special.

Farmer's inn

Farmer's Inn is the new style of stay where the farmers provide tourrists their residence as accommodations.

Movie shooting locations in Joetsu City

Joetsu city is often selected as the stage of movie and TV drama due to its abundance of beautiful townscapes, historical buildings, and rich nature. How about visiting the scenery of Joetsu City that appears on the screen and enjoy the charm of Joetsu along with the work?

Rinsenji Temple

The vast grounds of the Soto Zen temple Rinsenji in Joetsu were once home to Uesugi Kenshin (1530–1578), one of the most influential warlords of the Sengoku (“Warring States”) period (1467–1568).

Kasugayama Shrine

Kasugayama Shrine is situated halfway up Mt. Kasugayama and enshrines the warlord Uesugi Kenshin (1530–1578) as a Shinto deity. Kenshin was known as a formidable leader in battle, and the shrine is often visited by those praying for success. In the years after its construction in 1901, one such visitor was Crown Prince Yoshihito (1879–1926), later Emperor Taisho, who prayed for victory in the Russo-Japanese War (1904–1905).

Gochi Kokubunji Temple

Gochi Kokubunji Temple was once the most significant Buddhist temple in what is now the Naoetsu district of Joetsu City. It was founded in the eighth century, when Emperor Shomu (701–756) decreed that each province should establish a kokubunji (a state-sponsored temple). This order was issued in 741, after a devastating smallpox epidemic, with the intention to pray for the safety and wellbeing of the country.

Cherry Blossom viewing spots in Joetsu

We introduce some cherry blossom viewing spots including "Takada Castle Ruins Park Cherry Blossom Festival", which is one of the biggest event in Joetsu! All of these places are perfect for spring stroll and photograph.

Takada Castle Ruins Park Cherry Blossom Festival［Photo gallery］

Lotus Festival［Photo gallery］

Summer Photo Spots in Joetsu

We introduce some nice photo spots such as Lotus Festival of Takada Castle Ruins Park, said to be No. 1 in the east, and photogenic seasides where the horizon stands out!

Autumn Leaves Spots in Joetsu

We introduce wonderful autumn leaves spots in Joetsu where you are surrounded by beautiful autumn scenery! Please do not forget to take photos of colorful autumn leaves.

Snow Scenery Spots in Joetsu

The Fantastic and beautiful snow scenery is the real pleasure in winter Joetsu. We introduce some nice photo spots where you can encounter photogenic views.