You'll find the Bandai Entrance (Bandai-guchi) of Niigata Station undergoing construction for its elevated tracks.
The Bandai Entrance is bustling, unlike the neatly organized South Entrance, and is home to izakayas (Japanese pubs) and the shopping area known as Bandai City.
The bus terminal is located at the Bandai Entrance, with buses departing for Bandai City, Toki Messe, and the Bandaijima Fish Market.
And guess what? I found a place to sit and take a break near the stairs leading to the north exit of Niigata Station, in front of the Bandai Bus Terminal!
Look for the blue outdoor stairs in front of the bus terminal; there are benches lined up at the edge of the landing next to the stairs.
※These are not benches for waiting for the bus.
There are three two-seater benches available.
Although there's a lot of foot traffic, you can relax without worrying too much as they're set apart from the main pathways.
This spot seems convenient as a meeting place for groups at the Bandai side of Niigata Station.
The Bandai Square is scheduled to be beautifully renovated in the future.
Also, from this bus terminal, you can take the No. 6 "Rinkosen" bus and get off at "Miura Junior High School" to reach the Fish Market!
Lots of fresh crabs...!
I enjoyed a seafood rice bowl♪ Why not visit the Fish Market too!?
And if you're near Niigata Station, be sure to check out the "Niigata Station South Exit Square" as there are many benches there!
So, how about using these spots as rest areas to sit and relax around Niigata Station?