Hometown of Uesugi Kenshin

Uesugi Kenshin was born in Kyoroku 3 (1530) as a youngest child of Nagao, sub-military commissioner in Echigo. Another name he used in childhood was Torachiyo. In Tenmon 5 (1536) Nagao died, and his elder brother Ha continued the position of his father. As the same time, Torachiyo entered the Rinsenji Temple as a pupil and studied there from the age of 7 to 14 years old.

Travel on the Road of St. Shinran

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

Takada, the Castle Town with a 400 Year History

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

Discover the Pioneers of Joetsu City

Japanese modern history started from the Meiji restoration. Since Westernization and the Industrial Revolution, and experiencing two World Wars, there were people who, even in such hard times believed in their dreams and who, despite hardship, worked hard for the development of their hometown.

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

Joetsu, where you can meet both history and nature.With the “food culture experience”, you can make delicious local food.At the “village life experience”, enjoy agriculture, mountain life and fishing with local villagers.

Com'on Over for a Spell! 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’ll introduce the farmers' markets ("chokubaijo") 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 proprietor.

Whew! Take a Breather at These "Road Stations"

These "Road Stations" can be found in when you need them most during your road trip. In Joetsu city, there are three such Road Stations: "Umi Terrace Nadachi", "Yoshikawa Touji no Sato" and "Yuki no Furusato Yasuzuka."

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.