Myoko: Exploring the City Surrounded by Mountains
Located in the prefecture of Niigata, Myoko, Japan, is a city bordering the prefecture of Nagano and lying close to the entrance of the ancient Echigo Plains. There are five mountains surrounding Myoko, collectively called the Five Peaks of Northern Shinano. The city was created when the town of Arai merged with the nearby village of Myoko and the village of Myokokogen in 2005. Although the town’s economy is only partly dependent on seasonal tourism, you can still find numerous hotels and lodging spaces available in and out of Myoko.
Best Time to Visit
The general climate in the city is humid with wet summer days and snowy winter days. If you’re in the country for the cherry blossoms, best to come by in April when the Cherry Blossom Festival is in full swing. You can easily drive to Takada Park, which is around a 17-minute drive away and shelters no less than 4,000 sakura trees. May is also a good month for a visit, especially during the Myokokogen Kan-bara Festival that celebrates the coming of the spring season. Most of Myoko, Japan hotels are packed by this time, so book early.
What to Do & Area Attractions
If you’re in Myoko in winter, best to visit Seki Onsen Ski Resort and Suginohara Ski Area. You can also easily spot Mount Myoko from anywhere in the town, as well. Hotel Route Inn Joetsu gives visitors a perfect view of the Seki River. However, if you’re in for convenience, check out Akakura Park Hotel and Kyukamura Myoko, which are within a minute drive from the city center.