Bandai Bridge

Bandai Bridge is a stone bridge spanning the Shinano River, which is said to be the longest river in Japan. The current Bandai Bridge was built in 1929 and was designated an Important Cultural Property of Japan in 2004. A defining feature is its beautiful series of arches finished with granite and other stone facing. Because it is stone-built, it has a very robust structure and even withstood the Niigata earthquake of 1964. It remains part of a heavily trafficked roadway, but it also has wide sidewalks so you can cross on foot. Strolling while viewing the gently flowing Shinano River and Bandai Bridge is also recommended. Because it’s in the city center, it’s easy to reach from the station and hotels. There is also a water-bus boarding point nearby, making it fun to see the bridge up close from the river. Access: about 15 minutes on foot from Niigata Station Bandai Exit, or about 5 minutes by bus. By car: about 15 minutes from Hokuriku Expressway “Niigata Nishi IC” or Ban-etsu Expressway “Niigata Chuo IC.”