Ojiya-chijimi, Echigo-jofu: techniques of making ramie fabric in Uonuma region, Niigata Prefecture developed in the north-western part of Japan s main island and bear the mark of the region s cooler climate particularly its snowy winters.

UNESCO: Culture

The Tokyo Stock Exchange has begun merging with Japan's tiny regional exchanges, such as those in Niigata and Hiroshima.

ECONOMIST: Slow financial starvation

Niigata's Toei Hotel was alive with sober-suited businessmen, who suddenly exploded into animation when Japan beat Tunisia.

BBC: World Cup memory lane