50 shades of green: Summer fun in Niigata

Countryside living has been something that has inspired gratitude in me for some time now. A slower pace of life, fresh air, and more quality time as a family are just a few of the things we've embraced since living in Niigata - and those things have been emphasised even more of late. With the worries and concerns over the coronavirus still looming, our summer fun has been predominantly outdoors, but we don't mind that one bit.

Whilst places like museums and aquariums are still a bit too "close-contact" for our liking, Niigata's summer nature is an attraction in itself.

We've taken the time to visit a lot of our old favorites, some of which we hadn't experienced over summer before. One of those spots is the Osaki Dam Park, which we typically only visit in spring. It's a reasonably popular spot over Golden Week because there are cherry blossoms, daffodils, and koinobori hanging over the water, but on our more recent excursions there we haven't seen a soul. We've still been having quite a few overcast, rainy days of late, but I think it adds to the charm and really makes the summertime greenery pop.

Osaki Dam Park is most popular during spring. In summer, you'll basically have the place to yourself.

Another spot we revisited was Mt. Rokumanki. We've been here before as well, but it was in spring last year to see the katakuri, or dogtooth violets that blanket the hillsides. It's somewhere I'd recommend in summer, too - there's plenty of shade and lots of vivid greenery that make for a pleasant hike. Part is also paved, so it's not too strenuous!

Vivid greens and plenty of shade at Minamiuonuma's Mt. Rokumanki - great for a summer hike! Part of the route is paved, too.

Last but not least, we’ve been spending time by the river. We’re opting not to make beach trips this summer - usually we would hit up Kashiwazaki for some beach fun which isn’t on the cards for 2020. Staying close to home is the goal, and the Mizunashi River is a popular spot for taking a dip. A number of spots are very calm and shallow, so it makes for a family-friendly spot as well - we see lots of parents out with their little ones. At different points of the river you can get some amazing views of the three mountains of Echigo - Mount Echigo-Komagatake, Nakanodake, and Mt. Hakkai. With scenery like this, we’re not too disappointed that we’re opting to stay local.

The Mizunashi River offers the opportunity to wade your feet, cool off, and enjoy the stunning scenery. Not too shabby if I do say so myself.

Whilst this summer may not seem as action packed and event-filled as those of years gone by, I am finding myself embracing the opportunity. Slowing down, connecting with nature more, and making memories to last a lifetime are the epitome of summer fun to me. My only real heartbreak is that the annual Yairo Watermelon Festival has been canceled - usually you can eat your fill of delicious, sweet locally grown watermelon for the bargain price of 500 yen!