Niigata Keihin Hotel 新潟京浜ホテル

The first stop of our Northern Japan trip was Niigata. And the main reason why we wanted to visit Niigata was because of their rice. Niigata is the second only to Hokkaido in rice output. And when in Niigata, you definately have to try their Koshihikari rice (越光米), widely considered to be the highest quality rice produced in Japan. 

We stayed at the Keihin Hotel, a simple business hotel 5 mins walk from Niigata train station. As there were no more double rooms available, we took the twin room, at 7000JPY per night (approx SGD110). And their twin rooms is definitely the bigger rooms in the hotel. 

As we were dead tired from all the walking and freezing cold wind, we decided to just buy some sushi from the nearby departmental store for dinner. To be able to eat it in the comfort and warmth of the hotel room, is also a form of luxury for us as well. 

Breakfast was inclusive - serving local Japanese fare which normally comprises of rice, miso soup, grilled fish, a few stewed dishes and salad. They also served special homecooked curry, which seems quite popular among the guests.

Did I mention that natto is also a must item in local Japanese breakfast? And also a must item for me! I love natto!
And I must say this is simply the best combination: Natto on top of top grade Koshihikari rice, topped with a fresh raw egg. I could have this for breakfast everyday! 

It was snowing the day we left Niigata! This is the first time I am seeing snow! Walking on the soft snow feels just like stepping on cotton candy!

I love this photo! This car was parked just outside the hotel, fully covered with snow! (and my friends were saying in FB that I shouldn't "vandalize" other people's car!) If you realise, it was raining tiny hailstones one day before on the same car. 

And on the snow covered Inaho train we go, off to our next stop - Aomori!

Niigata Keihin Hotel

新潟県新潟市中央区弁天1-3-15
1-3-15 Benten, Chuo-ku, Niigata, Niigata Prefecture
Nearest train station: JR Niigata - Bandai exit (JR新潟駅ー万代口)
www.keihinhotel.com