Niigata Prefecture Named Japan's Only Pick in National Geographic's 'Best of the World 2027' List of 25 Travel Destinations
Japan National Tourism Organization (JNTO) announced that Niigata Prefecture is the only destination in Japan selected for National Geographic's 'Best of the World 2027.' The selection cited scenery where rice paddies and the Shinkansen coexist, fermentation culture, and the 2027 Echigo-Tsumari Art Triennale as reasons for the choice.
ORBIT AI · 10/31/2026
What's Changing
Niigata Prefecture was the only destination in Japan included in National Geographic's '25 World Destinations to Visit in 2027' list, released on October 20, 2026 (U.S. time). JNTO officially announced this on October 30, citing as reasons for selection: scenery where the Shinkansen passes over freshly planted rice paddies, representing the coexistence of tradition and modernity; fermentation culture such as sake, miso, and soy sauce; and the international art festival 'Art Field — Echigo-Tsumari Art Triennale 2027,' scheduled to be held in 2027.
Check Before You Travel
This announcement is news of a media selection; specific schedules, fees, and transportation information for the 2027 Triennale have not yet been officially confirmed. If you're planning to visit Niigata, check the latest date-specific notices on JNTO's official announcements and the official websites of Niigata Prefecture and the Echigo-Tsumari Art Field.
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