Niigata City

Have to present a workshop at a seminar at Niigata city tomorrow, so I went up a day earlier to have a walk around the city since I've never really spent any time there and it's the capital city of my prefecture. Verdict: Just a normal city. Has a pretty river running through it (actually, Japan's longest river - the Shinano River) and picturesque willow trees along the river banks, but nothing exceptional about the city that makes it a must-see.

The interior of an underground mall. Bought a new pair of boots....originally 8,000+ yen on sale for only 2,100-yen!

Got a haircut and colour. Love it! And it's super cheap! Used a coupon from this free lifestyle magazine called Hot Pepper and got the cut and colour package for only 3,500-yen (S$50). 　

The most delicious 坦々麺 tan-tan men (ramen with bak chor in a spicy soup base) in Japan (and maybe the world)! Shop's name is 陳麻屋 Chin Ma Ya. First had it in Kanazawa...was delighted to find an outlet in Niigata city too. They have outlets in Tokyo, Gunma, Niigata and Ishikawa prefectures so far. Slowly expanding to the rest of Japan. Word has it that my Aunty is still pining for it after having it in Kanazawa nearly a year ago. We can eat it the next time you come, Aunty!