Niigata City Manga and Anime Information Center Complete Guide｜Anime and Manga Charm and Access Information for Holy Site Pilgrimages
Niigata City in Niigata Prefecture is known as a “Town of Manga and Anime” for having produced numerous renowned manga artists and anime creators. The core facility for disseminating this information is the “Niigata City Manga and Anime Information Center.” In 2018, it was selected as one of “88 Anime Holy Sites in Japan Worth Visiting” announced by the Japan Anime Tourism Association, making it a pilgrimage destination attracting the attention of anime and manga fans nationwide.
This article provides the most detailed explanation of the charm of Niigata City Manga and Anime Information Center, from basic information to how to enjoy planned exhibitions, nearby pilgrimage spots, and practical information for actually visiting.
What is the Niigata City Manga and Anime Information Center? Its Appeal as a Holy Site
The Niigata City Manga and Anime Information Center is a cultural facility located on the first floor of Bandai City BP2, where visitors can experience the charm of manga and anime. It opened in 2010 as a base for introducing works by manga artists and anime creators with ties to Niigata and promoting the appeal of manga and anime culture.
Why is Niigata Called the “Town of Manga and Anime”?
Niigata City is called the “Town of Manga and Anime” because many renowned creators were born in this region. Representative manga artists and anime creators with ties to Niigata include the following:
- Rumiko Takahashi (works including “Urusei Yatsura,” “Ranma 1/2,” “Inuyasha,” etc.)
- Shinji Mizushima (“Dokaben,” “Abasan,” etc.)
- Fujio Akatsuka (“Osomatsu-kun,” “Genius Bakabon,” etc.)
- Minoru Maiya (“Patalio!” etc.)
- Makoto Shinkai (anime director of works including “Your Name,” “Weathering with You,” etc.)
The works of these creators are beloved not only in Japan but throughout the world, making Niigata City truly an important holy site supporting Japanese manga and anime culture.
Significance of Selection for “88 Anime Holy Sites in Japan Worth Visiting”
In the 2018 edition of “88 Anime Holy Sites in Japan Worth Visiting,” the Niigata City Manga and Anime Information Center was selected along with “Niigata City Manga no Ie” as an “Anime-Related Facility.” This is an evaluation not as a location that became the stage for a work, but as a facility where visitors can experience anime and manga culture.
Through this selection, Niigata City has become recognized by anime fans nationwide as a pilgrimage destination, and many fans now visit.
Highlights of the Facility and Charm of Permanent Exhibitions
The Niigata City Manga and Anime Information Center offers diverse exhibitions and experiential corners that can be enjoyed by everyone from children to adults.
Corner Introducing Manga Artists and Anime Creators with Ties to Niigata
The core of the permanent exhibition is a corner introducing manga artists and anime creators with ties to Niigata. Detailed displays of each creator’s profile, representative works, and background to their creation help deepen understanding of the works.
The exhibition panels include valuable original artwork and production materials, allowing visitors to see professional techniques and expressive power up close. For fans, it becomes a valuable opportunity to learn how their favorite works were created.
Exhibition of Manga and Anime Production Processes
An exhibition explaining manga and anime production processes, which are not well known to the general public, is also popular.
- Manga Production: Processes such as name creation, rough sketching, inking, and finishing
- Anime Production: The complex processes of planning, screenplay, storyboarding, key animation, in-between animation, coloring, compositing, and editing
Since these processes can be learned alongside actual production materials, the content is extremely valuable for young people aspiring to be creators and those interested in the behind-the-scenes of production.
Experience Corners Where You Can Play with Popular Characters
One of the major attractions of the Niigata City Manga and Anime Information Center is its abundant hands-on experience corners.
In the voice acting experience corner, visitors can actually dub a scene from an anime. This popular corner allows visitors to experience how professional voice actors perform and feel the difficulty and enjoyment of voice acting.
In the character experience device, visitors can enjoy commemorative photos with popular characters and digital games. Not only children but also adult fans can enjoy these features with childlike wonder.
Mini Theater for Anime Viewing
A mini theater is installed within the facility, screening anime works with ties to Niigata and video works related to manga and anime. Special screenings coordinated with planned exhibitions are sometimes held, offering new discoveries with each visit.
Charm of Planned Exhibitions｜7-8 Special Exhibitions Annually
One of the greatest attractions of the Niigata City Manga and Anime Information Center is the 7-8 planned exhibitions held annually. In the planned exhibition space adjacent to the permanent exhibition, exhibitions of original artwork from popular works and exhibitions focusing on specific creators are held regularly.
Past Popular Planned Exhibitions
Past planned exhibitions have enchanted many fans, including the following:
- Rumiko Takahashi Works Exhibition
- Makoto Shinkai Director Works Exhibition
- Gundam Series Exhibition
- Weekly Shonen Jump Related Exhibition
- Local Creator Special Exhibition
In these planned exhibitions, rare original artwork, design materials, production process documents, and other items normally not visible are displayed, deepening understanding of the works.
How to Enjoy Planned Exhibitions
Here are tips for maximizing enjoyment of planned exhibitions.
Check the Official Website in Advance: The schedule for planned exhibitions is updated regularly on the official website. If a display of your favorite work or creator is planned, make plans early.
Be Careful of Exhibition Change Periods: During the changeover of planned exhibitions, there may be temporary closures and exhibition change periods. Always check the opening status before visiting.
Check Gift Merchandise Sales: Limited merchandise may be sold in conjunction with planned exhibitions. This is a must-check point for collectors.
Basic Information｜Fees, Hours, and Access
Here is compiled the basic information needed when visiting the Niigata City Manga and Anime Information Center.
Address and Location
Address: 1st Floor, Bandai City BP2, 2-5-7 Yachiyodai, Chuo Ward, Niigata City, Niigata Prefecture
Bandai City is a large commercial complex area located in the center of Niigata City where shopping and dining can also be enjoyed.
Business Hours
- Weekdays: 11:00 AM to 7:00 PM
- Weekends and Holidays: 10:00 AM to 7:00 PM
- Last Admission: Until 6:30 PM
The facility opens one hour earlier on weekends and holidays, allowing visitors to enjoy at a leisurely pace.
Closed Days
Closed days are irregular, but primarily include the following periods:
- Exhibition change periods
- Year-end and New Year
- Facility maintenance days
It is recommended to always check the latest opening information on the official website before visiting. Information about temporary closures is also announced on the official website.
Admission Fees
Permanent Exhibition Admission:
- General: 200 yen
- Junior and Senior High School Students: 100 yen
- Elementary School Students: Free
- Elementary and Junior High School Students: Free on weekends and holidays
Planned Exhibition Admission:
Separate fees are required for planned exhibitions. Fees vary depending on the exhibition content, so check the official website or at the venue. Generally, a package with the permanent exhibition costs around 500-1,000 yen.
Helpful Information:
- Elementary and junior high school students are basically free (separate fees for planned exhibitions)
- Group discounts available
- Discounts for those with disability certificates
Access Methods
By Train:
- Approximately 15 minutes walk from JR Niigata Station
- Head straight toward Bandai City Bus Center from Niigata Station’s Bandai Exit
By Bus:
- Approximately 5 minutes by “Bandai City” bound bus from Niigata Station front bus terminal
- Get off at “Bandai City” bus stop, 1 minute walk
By Car:
- Approximately 20 minutes from “Niigata West IC” on the Hokuriku Expressway
- Approximately 15 minutes from “Niigata Central IC” on the Inetsuan Expressway
Parking:
Bandai City has multiple paid parking lots. When combined with shopping and dining, parking fee discounts may be available.
Inquiries
Phone Number: 025-240-4311
Inquiries by phone are possible during business hours. Questions about planned exhibition details and group reservations can also be addressed.
Niigata City Pilgrimage Spots｜Manga and Anime Related Facilities
After visiting the Niigata City Manga and Anime Information Center, be sure to visit nearby related facilities. Niigata City has other attractive pilgrimage spots.
Niigata City Manga no Ie
“Niigata City Manga no Ie” is a facility that, like the Niigata City Manga and Anime Information Center, was selected as one of the “88 Anime Holy Sites in Japan Worth Visiting.”
Features:
- Charming wooden building from the early Showa period
- Exhibitions of works by manga artists from or with ties to Niigata
- Reading space where approximately 10,000 manga can be read freely
- Regular manga classes and events
Location: 6-chome Furumachi-dori, Chuo Ward, Niigata City
Moving toward the Furumachi area from the Niigata City Manga and Anime Information Center, you can enjoy manga in a retro atmosphere.
Gata-Furu Course｜Approximately 6-Hour Manga and Anime Tourism
The “Easy Manga and Anime Sightseeing Course” officially proposed by Niigata City is a plan to efficiently tour Niigata City’s manga and anime spots in approximately 6 hours.
Model Course:
- Arrival at Niigata Station
- Niigata City Manga and Anime Information Center (2 hours)
- Lunch at Bandai City (1 hour)
- Niigata City Manga no Ie (1.5 hours)
- Furumachi Stroll and Café Break (1 hour)
- Souvenir Shopping and Return to Niigata Station
With this course, even a day trip allows you to fully experience Niigata City’s charm as the “Town of Manga and Anime.”
Other Related Spots
Niigata City History Museum (Minato Pia):
A facility where visitors can learn about Niigata’s history and culture, occasionally hosting special exhibitions related to manga and anime.
Befco Bakake Observation Room:
An observation room on the 31st floor of Tori Messe offers a panoramic view of Niigata’s cityscape, with beautiful scenery reminiscent of anime settings.
Hotels and Accommodations Around Niigata City Manga and Anime Information Center
For those traveling from distant places for pilgrimage, we introduce recommended accommodations near the Niigata City Manga and Anime Information Center.
Hotels in the Bandai Area
Hotel Nikko Niigata:
- High-rise hotel adjacent to Bandai City
- 3 minutes walk to Niigata City Manga and Anime Information Center
- Directly connected to Tori Messe for convenience
Dormy Inn Niigata:
- Equipped with natural hot spring bath
- 5 minutes walk to Bandai City
- Popular for services like late-night ramen
Comfort Hotel Niigata Station Front:
- 3 minutes walk from Niigata Station
- Reasonable pricing
- Free breakfast service
Hotels Around Niigata Station
Art Hotel Niigata Station Front:
- 1 minute walk from Niigata Station’s Bandai Exit
- Ideal as a tourism base
- Complete with restaurants and cafés
Niigata Keihinhel:
- 5 minutes walk from Niigata Station
- Calm atmosphere business hotel
- Good cost performance
Hotels in the Furumachi Area
If you plan to visit Niigata City Manga no Ie as well, staying in the Furumachi area is also recommended.
Hotel Italia-Ken:
- Historic hotel in Niigata
- Classic atmosphere
- Close to Furumachi entertainment district
When selecting accommodations, considering the pilgrimage route and distance to planned facilities allows for more efficient travel planning.
Planned Exhibition Ticket Purchase Methods and Ways to Enjoy at a Better Value
Here are tips for maximizing enjoyment of planned exhibitions when visiting the Niigata City Manga and Anime Information Center.
Ticket Purchase Methods
Day-of Tickets:
Can be purchased at the reception desk inside the facility. Choose between admission for permanent exhibition only or a package ticket for permanent exhibition plus planned exhibition.
Advance Tickets:
For large-scale planned exhibitions, advance tickets may be sold. These can be purchased on the official website or partner ticket sales sites and typically offer lower prices than day-of admission.
Online Tickets:
Some planned exhibitions may offer advance online purchase options. For popular planned exhibitions where crowds are expected, advance purchase is recommended.
Tips to Avoid Crowds
Weekday Afternoons are Ideal:
Weekends, holidays, and summer vacation periods tend to be crowded. Those wanting to view at leisure should choose weekday afternoons.
Right After Opening:
Right after opening at 10:00 AM on weekends and holidays tends to be relatively quiet. Even popular exhibitions can be viewed calmly.
Busy Opening and Closing Days:
Opening and closing days of popular exhibitions tend to be crowded. When possible, choosing mid-period dates is better.
Photography Rules
Photography is permitted in some areas of the permanent exhibition, but planned exhibitions typically prohibit photography. Photography-permitted areas have clear signage, so enjoy while following the rules.
Photo spots that are Instagram-worthy may be provided, so posting with the official hashtag helps you connect with like-minded enthusiasts.
Enjoying Niigata City Manga and Anime Information Center as a Couple or Family
The Niigata City Manga and Anime Information Center is enjoyable not only for solo pilgrims but also for couples and families.
Points Recommended for Couple Dates
For couples who love manga and anime, it is a precious date spot where they can enjoy shared interests.
View Planned Exhibitions Together:
Viewing while discussing your favorite works together creates deeper understanding and empathy.
Voice Acting Experience as a Couple:
In the voice acting experience corner, couples can experience dubbing together. It becomes a fun memory despite any embarrassment.
Shopping and Dining at Bandai City:
After viewing the facility, enjoy shopping and dining at Bandai City. A comprehensive date course where you can also enjoy Niigata gourmet food.
Points for Family Enjoyment
Child-Friendly Experiential Exhibits:
Character experience devices and mini theaters are enjoyable even for small children.
Free for Elementary and Junior High School Students:
Since permanent exhibition admission is free for elementary and junior high school students (weekends and holidays), family visits are budget-friendly.
Learning Opportunities:
Learning about manga and anime production processes helps develop children’s creativity and expressive abilities.
Enjoyable for Multiple Generations:
With wide-ranging displays from works older generations remember fondly to the latest popular works, all family members can enjoy visiting together across three generations.
History and Future Prospects of Niigata City Manga and Anime Information Center
Since its opening in 2010, the Niigata City Manga and Anime Information Center has continued to promote Niigata’s manga and anime culture.
Background to Opening
As part of strengthening “Town of Manga and Anime” branding, Niigata City established this facility as a base for communicating the charm of manga and anime to citizens and tourists. Its purpose includes honoring the achievements of Niigata-tied creators and contributing to the cultivation of next-generation creators.
Achievements to Date
Since opening, the facility has welcomed tens of thousands of visitors annually, with particularly popular planned exhibitions attracting fans from nationwide. The facility actively collaborates with local schools and holds workshops for creator development.
Future Prospects
Niigata City plans to continue strengthening its “Town of Manga and Anime” brand. As a core facility in this effort, the Niigata City Manga and Anime Information Center is expected to undertake the following initiatives:
- More diverse planned exhibition programming
- Introduction of new display methods utilizing digital technology
- Attraction of international manga and anime events
- Expansion of online exhibitions and virtual tours
- Expansion of support programs for young creators
Beyond serving as a pilgrimage destination, it will continue evolving as a hub for creating and promoting manga and anime culture.
Q&A You Should Know Before Visiting
Here are compiled frequently asked questions when visiting the Niigata City Manga and Anime Information Center.
Q1: What is the address of Niigata City Manga and Anime Information Center?
A: The address is 1st Floor, Bandai City BP2, 2-5-7 Yachiyodai, Chuo Ward, Niigata City, Niigata Prefecture. It is approximately 15 minutes walk from JR Niigata Station, located within Bandai City.
Q2: What are the business hours of Niigata City Manga and Anime Information Center?
A: Business hours are 11:00 AM to 7:00 PM on weekdays and 10:00 AM to 7:00 PM on weekends and holidays. Last admission is until 6:30 PM.
Q3: What are the closed days at Niigata City Manga and Anime Information Center?
A: Closed days are irregular. The facility is primarily closed during exhibition change periods, year-end and New Year, and facility maintenance days. It is recommended to check the official website for the latest information before visiting. Information about temporary closures is also announced on the official website.
Q4: What is the admission fee for Niigata City Manga and Anime Information Center?
A: Permanent exhibition admission is 200 yen for general admission, 100 yen for junior and senior high school students, and free for elementary school students. Planned exhibition fees are separate and vary by exhibition content. Elementary and junior high school students are free for permanent exhibitions on weekends and holidays.
Q5: Is there parking available?
A: Bandai City has multiple paid parking lots. When combined with shopping and dining, parking fee discounts may be available.
Q6: Is photography permitted?
A: Photography is permitted in some areas of the permanent exhibition, but planned exhibitions typically prohibit photography. Photography-permitted areas have clear signage, so please follow the rules and enjoy.
Q7: Is merchandise sold?
A: Limited merchandise may be sold in conjunction with planned exhibitions. Manga and anime merchandise related to Niigata creators is also available.
Q8: How long does it take to visit?
A: Allow 1 to 1.5 hours for the permanent exhibition alone, or 2 to 3 hours including planned exhibitions. Those wanting to view at leisure or anime fans may want to allow additional time.
Q9: What is the difference between Niigata City Manga and Anime Information Center and Niigata City Manga no Ie?
A: Niigata City Manga and Anime Information Center is an experiential museum using the latest display technology with abundant planned exhibitions. On the other hand, Niigata City Manga no Ie is a facility utilizing an early Showa period building and is notable for its approximately 10,000 manga reading collection. Visiting both allows you to enjoy Niigata’s manga and anime culture more deeply.
Q10: Can I enjoy it with children?
A: Yes, there are abundant experience corners and character displays for children, making it enjoyable for families. Elementary and junior high school students get free permanent exhibition admission (weekends and holidays), so family visits are recommended.
Conclusion｜Enjoy Your Pilgrimage at Niigata City Manga and Anime Information Center
The Niigata City Manga and Anime Information Center is a precious holy site where visitors can experience Japanese manga and anime culture. As a facility selected for “88 Anime Holy Sites in Japan Worth Visiting,” it attracts attention from fans nationwide.
Charms of Niigata City Manga and Anime Information Center:
- Exhibition of works by renowned manga artists and anime creators with ties to Niigata
- Abundant 7-8 planned exhibitions held annually
- Fun experiential corners such as voice acting experiences and character encounters
- Reasonable admission fees (general permanent exhibition 200 yen, elementary and junior high school students free)
- Convenient location within Bandai City
When visiting Niigata City, visiting not only the Niigata City Manga and Anime Information Center but also touring Niigata City Manga no Ie and nearby tourist spots makes for a more fulfilling pilgrimage.
It is recommended to check the official website in advance for planned exhibition schedules and temporary closure information, and make visiting plans coordinated with exhibitions of your favorite works or creators.
Beautiful nature of Niigata, delicious gourmet food, and rich manga and anime culture. Enjoy all of these and create unforgettable pilgrimage memories in Niigata City.