Key facts

• Name: Shibada, Niikata Prefecture, Japan
• Diplomatic relation: Sister city
• Date of establishment: November 2, 1989
• Population: 106,000
• City flower: Iris
• City tree: Cherry blossom
• City flag:
• Area: 532.82 ㎢
• Schools: 35

Local characteristics

Located in the northern part of Echigo Plain and near Niikata, the capital of Niikata Prefecture, Shibata boasts a beautiful coastline in its northwestern part called “Sasagawa Nagare Coastline” as well as Bandaii-Asahi National Park, Tainioji Prefecture Natural Park, and Tainaininōji Prefectural Natural Park in its mountainous southeastern region. At the end of the Edo period (1603(sam)-1867), Shibata grew to become a jokamachi producing 100,000 bags of rice. It has national cultural assets, Shibata Castle and Ashigaru Nagaya, as well as the nationally renowned Tsukioka Hot Spring. As such, Shibata has many charms as well as a history as a jokamachi and cultural and national assets. One of the most well-known festivals in Shibatga is Jokamachi Shibata Matsuri, which takes place every year, at the end of August. Originating from the Suwa Shrine ceremony that had been taking place since the Edo period, it is now the largest festival in Shibata. The splendid daiwa prepared by six towns is one of the attractions of the festival.

Exchange Projects

Youth sports exchanges (for the last three years)

Other exchange events (for the last three years)

Major attractions