A Niigata must-do this year: the Echigo Tsumari Art Triennale

One of my favorite things about living in Niigata is the bustling art scene that we have out here. There are loads of quality museums and cultural events to enjoy, and one that I adore is the Echigo-Tsumari Art Triennale. Held every three years, it's back on for 2024 – it began in July and will run through until November 10th.

The coolest part about the event is that it's almost like a scavenger hunt, with the artworks being scattered across a 760 square kilometer region around the Echigo-Tsumari area. You can purchase passports which get stamped at each venue (adults are 4500 yen, children from 6-18 years are 2000 yen), and the passport includes admission to all of the displays. 

If you're a Niigata local, it's fun to check off a couple of attractions each weekend and work your way through the passport. If you are coming from another part of Japan, I'd definitely try and time it so that you have more than one day to explore. It's also easiest if you come by car, as some of the destinations are a little off the beaten path. Some, however, can be enjoyed close to Tokamachi Station if public transport is your only option.

You can find more information about the event on the official website here.