In Niigata, there's a station building called CoCoLo Niigata, and it's divided into many areas: CoCoLo Main Building, Bandai, East, South, Central, West, and West N+.
It's quite unusual for a station building to be divided like this, which even surprised Pen-ta (lol).
So, this time I went to the "South Building."
The South Building is located on the right side when you walk straight from the Shinkansen ticket gates, in front of Bic Camera.
And, in the central area of the South Building, there's a place where you can sit and relax, in front of Mothers Crepe, which is popular with students!
It's a place called the meeting area, and there are six tables with seating for four people each!
It has a food court vibe, but you can use it as a rest area, and you can eat and drink anything you buy inside CoCoLo!
It's great to have tables near the terminal station. I think it's also easy to use for families.
Also, there are four benches surrounding the tables.
These benches are nestled between the plants, and since both sides are walls, it's a great spot to relax♪
In terms of location within Niigata Station, it's also recommended as a meeting place in Niigata.
As a note on usage, you can eat and drink anything purchased inside the building, but bringing your own packed lunches etc. is not allowed.
Another recommendation is "Yasuda Yogurt" located in CoCoLo South Building!
It seems to be popular with the locals, and this soft serve ice cream was incredibly delicious♪
...I was thinking of having it twice, but I consulted my stomach (lol)
How about buying some delicious Niigata specialty soft serve ice cream and taking a break on a bench?
I can't go to Niigata often, so I'm also considering online shopping (lol)
If it's full, check out the following two places nearby!
A calm "CoCoLo Niigata Main Building Ikoi no Hiroba rest area"
The Starbucks is nearby "CoCoLo Niigata West N+ Plaza rest area"
So, why not use it as a resting place near Niigata Station while you're shopping at CoCoLo Niigata?