🗺️ Kurobe Gorge Jade Coast

The pebble beach located in Uonuma City, Niigata Prefecture, is famous as a popular jade-producing area in the East. The jade washed out from the designated National Natural Monument, the Otaki River Jade Gorge, has flowed to the coast over a long period of time. It is said that if you are lucky, you might have the chance to discover jade on this beach. In addition to jade, various types of stones are scattered throughout the area, making it enjoyable to search for uniquely shaped stones. If you want to know what kind of stone you have picked up, you can go to the "Chuo Daitsu Museum," which is about a 10-minute drive from the coast, for identification. However, this service requires a certification voucher issued in advance by the museum, so it's best to confirm beforehand. From mid-July to mid-August, the jade coast is used as a swimming beach, during which the coast is filled with tents and umbrellas, bustling with people. You can swim in the clear Sea of Japan, search for jade, and fully enjoy the unique experiences this place has to offer.

If you're lucky, you might find jade. The stones you collect can be taken to the "Central Rift Valley Museum" for appraisal (a certification voucher is required). From mid-July to mid-August, it is quite popular as a seaside bathing area.