Minamiuonuma City in Niigata Prefecture is adjacent to Uonuma City and Tokamachi City. Following a merger in 2004, the town became a city. Known for its mountains, rivers, and heavy snowfall, the town is also blessed with beautiful nature. Taking advantage of this natural beauty, Minamiuonuma City boasts the Joshinetsu Kogen National Park and the Uonuma Mountain Range Prefectural Natural Park. It was used as a filming location for the historical drama "Tenchijin" in 2008, making it a popular tourist destination. Other attractions include ski resorts, which bustle with people enjoying winter sports in the winter. Local specialties include Uonuma Koshihikari rice, sweet and delicious eight-color watermelon, sake, and beer. A famous person from this area is comedian Suzuki Qtaro of the comedy duo Hiking & Walking.