Sanjo City, Niigata Prefecture, is located almost in the center of Niigata Prefecture. It is a new town formed in 2005 by the merger of three cities and towns. It is known nationwide as a town of metalwork, and a local industry based on various metal processing industries is firmly established here. Recently, it has become famous for its rich ramen topped with back fat, attracting many visitors from outside the prefecture. One of the highlights of Sanjo is the flocks of swans that fly to the Igarashi River every year around early November. It is extremely rare for swans to descend to the river instead of a pond or lake, and they are carefully protected thanks to the blessings of local residents. If you visit the Igarashi River early in the morning or evening, you can see the swans swimming leisurely. There are also tourist spots where you can try blacksmithing.