Kariwa district, Administrative district in Niigata Prefecture, Japan
Kariwa is a district in Niigata Prefecture situated between the cities of Nagaoka and Kashiwazaki. The area is connected by several transportation routes, including the JR East Echigo Line and major roads such as the Hokuriku Expressway and National Route 8.
The district was established in 1879 and originated from the former Koshi District. It took its present form when the Santō District separated during the Edo period.
The district comes alive during local festivals like the Takiya Toro Oshiai Matsuri in April and the Kariwa-mura Furusato Matsuri in August, where residents gather to celebrate their roots. These gatherings show how the community values its connection to the land and its past.
The area is well served by multiple transportation options, making it easy for travelers to move around. Visitors should use the rail connections and road networks to explore the district and reach nearby towns.
The area hosts part of the Kashiwazaki-Kariwa nuclear power plant, which operated as one of the world's largest electricity generating facilities for decades. This installation has profoundly shaped the region's economy and communities.
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