TADAMI, Fukushima Prefecture A popular rail line stretching across Fukushima and Niigata prefectures that is renowned for its breathtaking natural views resumed full operations 11 years after torrential rains rendered a 27.6-kilometer stretch unusable.
UONUMA, Niigata Prefecture As a special treat, Saifukuji temple here is offering visitors the opportunity to snap photos of a richly colored wood carving by master sculptor Uncho Ishikawa (1814-1883), hailed as the “Michelangelo of Echigo,” but only until the end of September.
UONUMA, Niigata Prefecture A natural phenomenon known as cloud waterfall is mesmerizing early morning sightseers at the Shiori-toge pass that forms part of National Route No. 352 and lies more than 1,000 meters above sea level.