Niigata, on Honshu’s west coast, sits along the Shinano River, with the iconic Bandai Bridge linking the seaport to the city center. The Niigata City Art Museum highlights modern Japanese works and local cultural heritage. Nature lovers can visit the Niigata Prefectural Botanical Garden, home to stunning native flora. History enthusiasts will enjoy the Niigata History Museum, set in a former merchant’s house, while Hakusan Jinja Shrine, dating to the 14th century, offers insight into the region’s Shinto traditions.