Niigata Prefecture is famous for incredible natural spots such as mountains and rice fields. Being blessed with natural sceneries, Niigata is also a motherland to many beautiful bird species.

What does it mean when the sakura (cherry blossoms) are at their “peak” bloom, and how is that determined? In Japan, seeing cherry blossoms is a hobby and a way of life.

Tochigi Prefecture is home to fantastic world heritage sites, products, and history. The capital city of Nikko is particularly famous for preserving Edo-era architecture and temples.

You already know that rice is a mainstay of the Japanese diet. Not only do Japanese people have steamed plain rice at meals almost every day, but if you can go to grocery stores in Japan, you can find many rice crackers.

Hegisoba is a noodle dish specialty from Niigata. It has a unique presentation and a special ingredient that provides a unique texture when you bite it. Let’s look closer at the culinary history behind this fantastic dish, and why is it important.

Sakura has become a cultural symbol associated with many traditional Japanese activities in spring, including the custom of hanami (flower viewing). Most types of cherry blossoms have their unique beauty and different flowering times.