My home prefecture finally getting the recognition it deserves!

I'm a huge advocate for heading off the beaten path and exploring Japan that less people visit. I'm sure for folks living in places like Tokyo, Kyoto, and Osaka, it can be overwhelming at times dealing with so many people converging on those places. 

It's why I'm always really happy when big international publications feature destinations that are outside the big three, and that's especially the case when I see my very own prefecture getting its flowers from National Geographic! Niigata was listed as one of their destinations to visit for 2027, with one attraction in particular, the Echigo Tsumari Art Triennale, happening very close to where I live!