Niigata Prefecture is a prefecture rich in nature facing the Sea of Japan. There are four major regions: Shimoetsu, centering on Niigata City; Chuetsu, centering on Nagaoka City; Joetsu Region, centering on Joetsu City; and Sado Region, where Sado City is located. There are many places to enjoy all year round: cherry blossoms and tulips in spring, sea bathing and fireworks in summer, autumn leaves and grapes in fall, and ski resorts and hot springs in winter. Niigata Prefecture is also famous for its rice and sake. In particular, the Koshihikari variety of rice is said to be the best tasting rice in Japan. Niigata boasts one of the highest numbers of sake breweries in Japan, and there are many different types and flavors of sake. Niigata Prefecture's food culture is rich not only in rice and sake, but also in seafood and mountain produce. Fresh seafood, vegetables, and fruits can be tasted. Local cuisine and local delicacies are also diverse, with hegisoba (buckwheat noodles), tare katsudon (pork cutlet served on top of a bowl of rice), onigiri (rice balls), and other dishes being popular. Niigata Prefecture is also home to places where visitors can experience history and culture. Visitors can enjoy historical heritage sites such as the Echigo Ichinomiya Yahiko Shrine and the Sado Kinzan Ruins, as well as natural and cultural facilities such as the Niigata City Aquarium Marinepia Nihonkai and the Kiyotsukyo Gorge Tunnel.