The Story of Urasa/Koide
In the north of Snow Country are the towns of Urasa and Koide. Surrounded by mountains life here is still very rural and they've managed to maintain many of their traditions. One of the most interesting is the so-called "Naked Man Festival" in March which sees men of all ages clad in just a loin cloth battling to enter a small shrine to obtain a blessing. A very unique Japanese celebration. The watermelon in Yairo are some of the best in Japan and offer a true taste of summer. Stunning scenery is on offer on the lake at Okutadami which is just the start of a stretch of natural beauty that extends all the way to Fukushima. There are strong artistic links in this area with some amazing examples of wood carving by a well know artist called Uncho Ishikawa. Saifukuji Temple and Eirinji Temple are showcases for some of his best work. Urasa is also home to the International University of Japan who teach business for the modern world in the rice fields of Japan.
Our recommended access from Tokyo
Transportation Step1
Take Joetsu Shinkansen bullet train from Tokyo Station to Urasa. (Please check the time table because some trains do not stop at Urasa Station). The price is 7,460JPY each way.
