Chūō-ku

Chūō-ku is the central ward of Niigata, extending across the northern part of the city along the Sea of Japan coast. The ward contains the City Office, government agencies, schools, and functions as a transportation hub with access to the Jōetsu Shinkansen line.

The area transformed from a provincial region into an important trade port following the 1858 Harris Treaty that opened Japan to foreign commerce. It was formally established as a separate city ward in 2007.

The Furumachi area preserves traditional shopping streets where local shops line the paths leading toward the station. Here you can experience how residents shop for daily goods in spaces that have served the community for generations.

The ward is easily accessible by Shinkansen train and offers good connections to other parts of the city. Comfortable shoes are recommended for exploring the neighborhoods and the weather near the coast can be quite changeable.

The Bandai Bridge spans the Shinano River with a distinctive architectural presence that makes it a natural meeting point. The Niigata City History Museum and Hakusan Park create a network of green and cultural spaces along the riverbanks that shape how people move through this part of the city.

Location: Niigata

Inception: April 1, 2007

Website: https://city.niigata.lg.jp/chuo

GPS coordinates: 37.91611,139.03639

Latest update: December 13, 2025 19:07