Niigata Station is located in Niigata City, and has both local and shinkansen lines which operate through it. The station is the terminus for the Joetsu Shinkansen which connects Niigata City to Tokyo, as well as being part of the Echigo Line, the Hakushin Line, and the Shinetsu Main Line.
The station has a range of different amenities which are useful for both travelers and locals alike, including the CoCoLo mall which is attached to the station itself. The mall has a diverse range of stores such as Jupiter Imported Foods, a branch of Can-Do (one of Japan's 100 yen store chains), numerous clothing retailers, and plenty of eateries including the likes of Mos Burger, Starbucks, Saizeriya, and the local favorite of Yasuda Yogurt.
One really unique experience at the station here is visiting the Ponshukan Sake Museum. As well as learning about the history of sake production in the region, you can sample a variety of local brews for yourself. For 500 yen you get five tokens which you can exchange for cups of sake - the drinks are distributed via a vending machine system. It's a fun and memorable way to immerse yourself in the culture of the area and kill some time if you're waiting for your train.
For those who need some assistance with travel planning, there is a tourist information center just outside of the Bandai Exit. The staff here can assist with helping you book accommodation, answering questions about transport options, or suggesting fun things to see and do across the city. They're open from 9 am until 7 pm daily, and only close over the New Year's Holiday break.
