Niigata Landmark "Bandai Bridge" – What Makes It Special?
Beloved as a symbol of Niigata City, the "Bandai Bridge (Bandai-bashi)" is a historic bridge representing Niigata Prefecture.
Spanning the Shinano River, this bridge is loved by many visitors as part of Niigata’s urban landscape.
It was constructed in 1929 and still retains its beautiful appearance today.
At night the bridge is illuminated, offering a magical view reflected on the river surface.
Below we introduce the history, highlights, and access information for Bandai Bridge in detail!
History and Features of Bandai Bridge
1. A Niigata symbol since 1929
Bandai Bridge was completed in Showa 4 (1929) and has played an important role connecting Niigata’s city center with the Bandai area.
The current bridge is the third generation structure and is an arched bridge made of reinforced concrete.
Because of its beauty and historical value, it was designated a National Important Cultural Property in 2004.
As a rare example of an actively used bridge designated as a national Important Cultural Property, it is popular nationwide as a sightseeing spot.
2. Showa-era retro design with modern appeal
Bandai Bridge is characterized by its graceful arches, which give it a nostalgic feel.
- Length: approximately 306.9 meters
- Width: approximately 22 meters
The design adopts an arched style influenced by Western architecture, creating an air of dignity.
Also, the harmony between Niigata’s skyline and the wide Shinano River in the background is beautiful, making it a popular photography spot for many photographers.
3. Bandai Bridge as a night-view spot
Bandai Bridge offers wonderful daytime scenery, but the nighttime illumination is particularly praised for its beauty.
After sunset, the whole bridge is bathed in soft light, and the reflection on the river surface looks magical.
In winter evenings, the combination of lights and snowy scenery creates a uniquely romantic Niigata atmosphere.
Access to Bandai Bridge and Nearby Attractions
1. How to get to Bandai Bridge
Bandai Bridge is located in Niigata’s city center and is very convenient to access.
Access by public transportation
- About a 15-minute walk from JR Niigata Station
- Bus from Niigata Station, get off at "Bandai Bridge" (about 5 minutes)
Access by car
- About 15 minutes from Niigata Chuo IC
- There are many paid parking lots around Bandai Bridge
2. Recommended sightseeing spots near Bandai Bridge
① Toki Messe – Enjoy Niigata’s city views!
- The tallest skyscraper in Niigata, with spectacular views from the top floor reaching the Sea of Japan and Sado Island!
- About a 15-minute walk from Bandai Bridge.
② Pia Bandai – Savor Niigata cuisine
- A market and restaurants where you can enjoy fresh Niigata seafood.
- About a 10-minute walk from Bandai Bridge.
③ Furumachi area – Stroll through historic streets
- A spot where you can feel Niigata’s culture, with long-established wagashi (Japanese confectionery) shops and traditional sake breweries.
- About a 20-minute walk from Bandai Bridge.
How to Enjoy Visiting Bandai Bridge
1. Enjoy walking across Bandai Bridge
Bandai Bridge has wide sidewalks and is a safe bridge to walk across.
On sunny days, you can enjoy a stroll feeling the breeze from the Shinano River.
2. View Bandai Bridge from a cruise
In Niigata, a sightseeing cruise called the Shinano River Water Shuttle operates.
The view of Bandai Bridge from the boat is exceptional!
3. Enjoy seasonal scenery
- Spring: Cherry blossoms bloom around the bridge, coloring Niigata’s spring.
- Summer: The contrast between the blue sky and the Shinano River’s surface is refreshing.
- Autumn: Strolling among falling leaves is romantic.
- Winter: When snow piles up, Bandai Bridge becomes even more magical.
Useful Information for Travelers
1. Accommodation information
There are many hotels near Bandai Bridge and Niigata Station, so access is excellent!
- Luxury hotels: "Hotel Okura Niigata", "ANA Crowne Plaza Hotel Niigata"
- Business hotels: "Toyoko INN", "Dormy Inn Niigata"
2. Enjoy Niigata cuisine!
Near Bandai Bridge you can find plenty of delicious Niigata dishes.
- Hegi-soba – Soba kneaded with seaweed (funori), a Niigata specialty.
- Nodoguro sushi – A delicious, fatty fish!
- Tare-katsu-don – Niigata’s soul food.
Summary and Frequently Asked Questions
Summary
- Bandai Bridge is a symbolic bridge of Niigata with a long history dating from 1932.
- The nighttime illumination is beautiful, and it’s a popular photography spot.
- It’s within walking distance from Niigata Station, making access convenient.
- The area is rich in Niigata cuisine and sightseeing spots.
- You can enjoy different charms each season!
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I walk across Bandai Bridge?
A: Yes! The sidewalks are wide, so you can enjoy a safe stroll.
Q: Is Bandai Bridge safe at night?
A: Many people visit at night and it’s illuminated, so it’s relatively safe, but be cautious late at night.
Q: Are there places to eat near Bandai Bridge?
A: At "Pia Bandai" and in the Furumachi area, you’ll find many restaurants serving delicious Niigata food!
Q: Where are recommended photo spots for Bandai Bridge?
A: The riverside promenade along the Shinano River and the observation deck at Toki Messe are recommended views!
Bandai Bridge is a place where you can feel Niigata’s culture and history.
Every visit reveals new charms, so be sure to stop by when touring Niigata!
