The coast of Nishikan Ward, Niigata City, Niigata Prefecture
Drive the Echigo Nanaura Seaside Line (Echigo Nanaura Coast) The Sea of Japan is just beyond every bend
On an August afternoon, I take the red car out to the Echigo Nanaura Seaside Line. The road curves along the coast, and the Sea of Japan and its rocky shore open up ahead. I’d love to spend a summer afternoon by the sea, with rich miso ramen in Nishikan Ward for lunch first.
I drove the coastal curves on a sunny August afternoon. After lunch in Nishikan Ward, come feel the sea breeze with me.
SummerA sunny afternoon in August
Following the coastal bends in the sea breeze
For lunch, I had miso ramen at Komadori in Nishikan Ward. After savoring its rich miso flavor, I drove the red car toward the coast. I wore a light blue checked top, with my sunglasses perched on my head. The August afternoon sun fell across my back as I climbed into the car.
As I reached the coastal road, the breeze brushed my cheeks. I’m glad I put the top down. Even with both hands on the wheel and my eyes on the road, I could still catch the scent of the sea.
As I followed the bend, another stretch of the Sea of Japan opened up ahead. The green slopes came right down to the water, and huge rocks lined the shore. I’d been in town just moments ago, but I could feel the landscape changing as I drove.
With each bend, I made small adjustments at the wheel. It’s different from driving on a straight road, and I enjoy following the flow from one bend to the next. I love the way the road winds along the coastline.
The breeze swept my hair across my forehead, and I couldn’t help smiling. Coming to the sea after a bowl of ramen lets me enjoy both the meal and the drive in one afternoon.
Next time I come with my friend, I want to have lunch before heading onto this road again. Whether we travel by car or motorbike, I can already imagine us swapping stories about the sea breeze when we meet up. While the sky is still bright, I’m heading for one more bend.
The story sections are fiction inspired by this location. For accurate information, please consult official tourism and information websites.
Photos of this place1 images
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The coast of Nishikan Ward, Niigata City, Niigata Prefecture · Summer
Local specialties to try
Komadori’s miso ramen
Komadori in Nishikan Ward, Niigata City, is credited with creating rich miso ramen. With six or more varieties to choose from, even picking a bowl sounds like fun. I’d love to have it for lunch before heading to the coast.
Highlights
A road that curves along the Sea of Japan
This coastal stretch of national highway runs from Kakudahama to Teradomari Nozumi. I love how each bend lets me feel the shape of the shoreline.
Rock and sea, right beside the road
Echigo Nanaura Coast is known for its many unusual rock formations. I’d love to see the green slopes reach all the way to the shore, with the sea opening out beyond them.
Road and walking information
Echigo Nanaura Seaside Line (Kakudahama to Teradomari Nozumi)
- Total road length
- 13.9km
Sea of Japan, rocky shoreline, green coastal slopes
This coastal stretch of national highway runs from Kakudahama to Teradomari Nozumi. I’d love to enjoy the curves along the sea after having lunch in Nishikan Ward.
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