Niigata Bandai Bridge

**Night illumination:** The bridge is subtly lit 18:00–23:00 year-round, but during Niigata Festival (August 7–9) and New Year's (December 31–January 3), the arches receive colored illumination synced to music. The New Year's Eve display (23:00–0:30) is particularly impressive — locals gather with thermoses of sake. **Riverside market:** The Sunday morning craft market (9:00–14:00, April–November) beneath the bridge features Niigata artisans — sake ceramics, rice-straw crafts, and fresh Koshihikari rice sold directly by farmers. Entirely local, minimal English, authentic. **Photo composition:** The classic Bandai Bridge shot is from the east bank riverside path, 100m downstream, using a telephoto lens (70–200mm) to compress the arches. Sunset requires clear western sky; check weather before committing the trip.