2026 JCI ASPAC Niigata. Japan. Highlights of Niigata

Seafood Meets Rice in Perfect Harmony

Japan’s top rice-producing region

Sake from the region with the most breweries in Japan

Nodoguro, the king of white fish

Niigata, the birthplace of Nishikigoi (ornamental koi carp)

Niigata, one of Japan’s leading fireworks capitals

Niigata boasts the largest edamame cultivation area in Japan

Le Lectier, a rare Western pear variety known as a Niigata delicacy

Niigata Wagyu, known for its rich marbling and delicate sweetness

Northern Culture Museum and Ito Estate

Yahiko Shrine

Kiyotsu Gorge
What's
Niigata
Abundant Waters, Bountiful Land
Niigata is blessed with pure,
plentiful water—nature's essential gift.
This abundance makes it Japan's top rice-producing region,
where rice is more than food
—it's the soul of daily life and culture.
Naturally, Niigata is also home
to the most sake breweries in Japan.
Here, a passion for quality flows from the fields to every craft.
Niigata. That's a Japanese Farm.
2026 ASPAC Niigata. Japan.
June 11, 2026
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GOURMET

Seafood Meets Rice in Perfect Harmony
Where the Shinano and Agano rivers meet the sea, Niigata offers rich fishing grounds and an abundanc…

Hegi soba noodles
Smooth Texture from Seaweed – The Secret of Hegi Soba Hegi refers to the wooden tray used to serve s…

Tarekatsu
Soy-Sauce Katsu Bowl – Niigata’s Local Favorite Unlike the typical egg-covered version, this tare-ka…

Japan’s top rice-producing region
Japan’s top rice-producing region, nurtured by pure snowmelt streams Niigata, Japan’s to…

Sake from the region with the most breweries in Japan
Niigata, home to the most sake breweries in Japan Niigata, Japan’s top rice-producing region, is als…

Nodoguro, the king of white fish
Nodoguro is a premium white fish that’s in season all year and known for its rich, melt-in-you…

Niigata boasts the largest edamame cultivation area in Japan
Niigata locals can’t get enough of edamame When people think of Niigata, rice often comes to mind—bu…

Le Lectier, a rare Western pear variety known as a Niigata delicacy
A treasured delicacy of Niigata, eagerly awaited each season Le Lectier is prized for its rich aroma…

Niigata Wagyu, known for its rich marbling and delicate sweetness
Proudly known for its rich umami flavor, buttery fat, and delicate sweetness Niigata Wagyu is a prem…
SIGNTSEEING

Niigata, one of Japan’s leading fireworks capitals
Niigata, Japan’s fireworks kingdom, home to the massive 48-inch shell Niigata, one of Japan’s premie…

Northern Culture Museum and Ito Estate
The estate of the Ito family, wealthy landowners of Echigo The Northern Culture Museum is a historic…

Hakusan Shrine, the guardian shrine of Niigata
A historic shrine standing at the heart of Niigata Hakusan Shrine is located in the heart of Niigata…

Kakuda Cape Lighthouse
A white lighthouse overlooking the Sea of Japan Kakuda Cape Lighthouse is a striking white tower, st…

Niigata Wine Coast
Five unique and character-rich wineries The Niigata Wine Coast is a rising destination nestled at th…

Yahiko Shrine
A sacred realm embraced by history and nature Yahiko Shrine, affectionately known as Oyahiko-sama, i…

Echigo Nanaura Seaside Line
A refreshing coastal drive with stunning views and sea breeze The Echigo Nanaura Seaside Line is a 1…

The Niigata Saito Villa
A villa built by Kichijuro Saito, a prosperous merchant The Former Saito Family Villa was built in 1…

Pier Bandai
A lively market space echoing the spirit of the port Minato Marche Pier Bandai is a popular tourist …

Befco Bakauke Observatory
The premier observation spot on the Sea of Japan coast Located on the 31st floor of Toki Messe, appr…

Niigata Senbei Kingdom
A theme park where you can experience the delights of senbei with all five senses Niigata Senbei Kin…

Teradomari Fish Market Street (Sakana no Ameyoko)
“Sakana no Ameyoko,” a lively market brimming with the fresh bounty of the Sea of Japan The Teradoma…
SPECIALTY
STAY
SOUVENIR
INDUSTRY
Be the Change- For a Brighter Future
The world is changing faster than ever.
Now is not the time to simply ride the wave—
it's time to become the source of change.
2026 JCI ASPAC Niigata, Japan
gathers leaders under the theme
"Be the Change – For a Brighter Future."
Leaders who welcome change and look to the future with hope.
Here, across borders and cultures,
we meet, talk, and learn from each other—
discovering new perspectives and possibilities.
Every step taken here
can become a light that brightens the world.
Now is your moment to lead change.
You are the one to take the first step.
The Symbolism of Nishikigoi (Koi Carp)
Nishikigoi – Born in Niigata, a Symbol of Change
Originating in Niigata, nishikigoi (ornamental koi) are admired worldwide
their vivid colors and patterns—often called "living jewels." But their beauty doesn't appear overnight.
Like people, they grow and evolve over time, their colors and markings changing as they mature.
This spirit of transformation reflects our theme: "Be the Change."
Just as koi continue to develop their unique form, we too strive to grow and express our individuality.
Koi are also known for swimming upstream, even climbing waterfalls—symbols of persistence and progress.
Their journey through adversity toward success mirrors the direction we aim for in this conference:
embracing change, pushing forward, and shaping the future.
ACCESS
Direct international flights
Direct international flights fly to and from Seoul, Shanghai, Harbin, and Taipei.
Domestic flights
Domestic flights fly to and from many major cities, including Osaka, Kobe, Nagoya, Fukuoka, Okinawa and Sapporo.
JR Shinkansen(Bullet Train)
The JR Joetsu shinkansen (bullet train) can take you from Tokyo Station to JR Niigata Station in about 2 hours.