Breathtaking Views, Bullfighting, and Nishikigoi?! 6 Must-Visit Attractions in Ojiya City

Discover the top tourist attractions in Ojiya City, Niigata Prefecture! Ojiya City is a highly popular destination for travelers seeking a high-quality sightseeing experience. The city also hosts exciting seasonal events. In summer, the Ojiya Festival features the awe-inspiring Mando Mikoshi, a massive and powerful illuminated float. In spring, the Ojiya Balloon Festival (Ojiya Fusen Ikki) takes place, filling the sky with colorful hot air balloons, creating a spectacular and picturesque view.

Katakai Festival – One of Niigata’s Most Spectacular Fireworks Displays

Held every September, the Katakai Festival is a historic event in Niigata Prefecture that attracts thousands of visitors. The festival features numerous food stalls and grand floats, creating a lively and festive atmosphere. However, the main highlight is the dedicated fireworks display (Hōnō Enka). Recognized as one of the Three Great Fireworks Festivals of Echigo, this event offers a breathtaking spectacle of dazzling pyrotechnics.

The biggest attraction is the Yonshakudama (Four-Shaku Firework Shell), the largest launched firework in the world—a must-see for fireworks enthusiasts! Experience the thrill of witnessing one of the largest-scale fireworks displays on the planet firsthand.

1. Mount Kanakurayama

Standing as the highest peak in Ojiya City, Kamakurayama is a popular destination for nature lovers and hikers. The mountain is well-known for its connection to Takizawa Bakin’s classic novel Nansō Satomi Hakkenden, where it is referenced as a sacred peak.

Kamakurayama is a scenic retreat abundant in untouched nature. Visitors can admire colorful wildflowers, such as Ōbakisumire (Viola obtusa), which bloom beautifully throughout the area. At the summit, breathtaking panoramic views await—offering a sweeping sight of the Echigo Plain, terraced rice fields, and the famous koi ponds of Ojiya.

For those seeking more adventure, a 90-step descent leads to Otowa Falls, a natural spring known as one of Ojiya’s finest water sources. The serene and mystical ambiance of the waterfall is truly mesmerizing. The area is also home to Japanese giant salamanders, an indicator of the region’s pristine water quality.

2. Yamamotoyama Highlands

If you’re looking to immerse yourself in the natural beauty of Ojiya, Yamamotoyama Highlands is a must-visit destination. Situated at an elevation of 336 meters, this scenic spot offers a panoramic view of the Echigo Sanzan mountain range and the majestic Shinano River, creating a truly breathtaking experience.

Reaching the summit is convenient as you can drive up, but for those who want to connect more deeply with nature, hiking is highly recommended. Each season paints a different landscape—from vibrant rapeseed flower fields in spring to sunflowers in summer and buckwheat fields in autumn. No matter when you visit, the scenery is bound to leave you in awe. If you love nature or simply want to unwind in a serene environment, Yamamotoyama Highlands is the perfect spot.

3. Nishikigoi no Sato

One of the top attractions in Ojiya is Nishikigoi no Sato, a facility dedicated to Japan’s world-famous Nishikigoi (koi fish). Often referred to as “swimming jewels,” these exquisite koi glide gracefully through the facility’s scenic ponds. Visitors can explore a beautifully designed Japanese garden with waterfalls and bridges, as well as an exhibition hall that delves into the history and breeding of Nishikigoi.

A highlight of the experience is the feeding area, where visitors can interact with over 120 koi swimming elegantly in the viewing pond. You'll be mesmerized by the vibrant hues of Kohaku (red and white), Taisho Sanshoku (red, white, and black), and Showa Sanshoku (bold tricolor patterns). This is a fantastic spot for families, nature lovers, and those wanting to witness the beauty of Japan’s prized koi fish up close.

4. Myokoji Temple

Myokoji Temple is a historic Buddhist temple with a tradition dating back to the Kamakura period, boasting a history of approximately 760 years. It is a must-visit destination for history enthusiasts and those who want to experience a solemn atmosphere. Established in 1265 by Gen Yoshifusa Tanaka, the lord of Uchigamaki Castle, Myokoji Temple was built to pray for the prosperity of his clan and the well-being of the local people.

For travelers seeking to immerse themselves in the rich history of Ojiya and experience its cultural heritage firsthand, a visit to Myokoji Temple is highly recommended.

5. Mokujiki Kannon-do Hall

Mokujiki Kannon-do Hall is home to 33 Kannon statues, including the central Nyoirin Kannon, along with statues of Gyoki Bosatsu and Daikokuten. These sacred wooden carvings were sculpted by the wandering monk Mokujiki Shonin, who was active during the late Edo period. The statues were meticulously crafted over two and a half years, beginning in 1803.

The hall is open for visitors on the 17th of each month. The Buddhist statues, made from ginkgo wood, exude a sense of warmth and serenity. Their distinctive crescent-shaped eyes and gentle smiles have earned them the nickname "Smiling Buddhas," and they continue to be cherished by the local community.

6. Ojiya Bullfighting Arena

One of the most famous cultural traditions in Ojiya is "Ushi no Tsunotsuki" (bull sumo), which has been designated as an Important Intangible Folk Cultural Property of Japan. This form of bullfighting dates back to the Edo period, making it a must-see event for those interested in Ojiya’s cultural heritage.

The intense spectacle is marked by the unique and powerful shout of "Yoshita!", filling the air as the bulls clash head-on. The event showcases bulls forcefully ramming into each other, while handlers (Sekoshi) display remarkable skill and bravery by holding the bulls' noses to separate them. Unlike traditional bullfighting, Ojiya’s bull sumo does not declare a winner or loser—each match ends in a draw as it originates from a Shinto ritual, preserving its spiritual significance.

A visit to Ojiya Bullfighting Arena is a great way to immerse yourself in the city's unique traditions. The raw intensity and excitement of the matches can only be fully appreciated in person. If you want to witness an authentic piece of Japan’s living heritage, don’t miss this unforgettable event in Ojiya!

◎ Why Visit Ojiya?

If you’re planning to explore Ojiya City, this is a must-visit destination! The city offers a diverse range of attractions, including historical sites where you can learn about its rich past, scenic nature spots with breathtaking landscapes, and cultural experiences that bring you closer to Japanese traditions.

Discover Ojiya’s charm and make the most of your visit by experiencing its unique heritage and natural beauty!

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Breathtaking Views, Bullfighting, and Nishikigoi?! 6 Must-Visit Attractions in Ojiya City