Myoko

Myōkō is a city in Niigata Prefecture on the Japanese island of Honshu, stretching across mountain terrain with several ski areas. The territory includes forested areas, streams, and numerous hot springs scattered along the slopes of Mount Myōkō volcano.

The present city was formed on April 1, 2005, through the merger of Arai, Myōkōkōgen, and the village of Myōkō into a single municipality. This administrative reform aimed to streamline governance and infrastructure across the region while supporting regional development.

Some restaurants keep the Nagashi-Somen tradition alive, where noodles flow through water channels and guests catch them with chopsticks. This style of serving turns a simple meal into a playful experience that is especially popular in summer.

Myōkō-Kōgen station connects the city to the main regional rail lines and is served by two railway companies. The winter season typically runs from December through April, while the hot springs remain accessible year-round.

Mount Myōkō volcano feeds the region with hot springs whose water takes on a natural milky-white color from volcanic minerals. These baths have been used for generations and now attract visitors seeking warm water and mountain surroundings.

Location: Niigata Prefecture

Inception: November 1, 1954

Reference: 152170

Shares border with: Joetsu, Itoigawa, Nagano, Iiyama, Shinano, Otari

Website: https://city.myoko.niigata.jp

GPS coordinates: 37.02519,138.25353

Latest update: December 13, 2025 19:53