Explore the Charm of Niigata with New Interactive Mystery Experience in Ginza

Unraveling Niigata's Magic: The Interactive Mystery Experience

Starting May 2, 2026, visitors to the Ginza Niigata Information Center, known as THE NIIGATA, will have the chance to immerse themselves in a new interactive experience called "Niigata Sake Puzzle." This innovative mystery kit aims to attract visitors and promote the rich culture, food, and sake of Niigata through an engaging labyrinth of clues and challenges.

Unique Features

1. An Engaging Exploration
Participants can explore the museum using a special kit and smartphone while solving cleverly designed puzzles scattered throughout the venue. This experience is not reliant on specific knowledge but fosters a fun-filled environment that encourages creativity and problem-solving, making it accessible to all ages.

2. Discovering Niigata
The narrative and challenges within the mystery are infused with elements related to Niigata’s cuisine, sake, tourism, and culture, allowing participants to appreciate the region's allure while having fun.

3. Consumer Engagement Strategies
During the mystery experience, players receive vouchers for discounted tasting tickets, enhancing the drinking experience with Niigata sake (1,500 yen value for 1,300 yen). This element promotes longer stays and increases spending within the facility.

Background of the Initiative

Despite being a hub for the promotion of Niigata products and tourism, THE NIIGATA faced challenges attracting visitors despite its recognition. By leveraging the rising popularity of interactive experiences, particularly puzzle-solving events, the center aims to create incentives for visitors and appeal to demographics that previously lacked engagement with Niigata’s offerings.

Event Details

- Event Name: Niigata Sake Puzzle: Explore THE NIIGATA
- Location: Inside THE NIIGATA in Ginza
- Event Duration: From May 2, 2026
- Puzzle Kit Price: 1,500 yen (tax included)

Please note that participation requires one “Puzzle Kit.” The event focuses on the culture of Niigata and Japanese sake and does not include sake tasting experiences in the mystery kit.

- Recommended Age: 9 years and above (no age restrictions when accompanied by a parent)
- Duration: Approximately 90-120 minutes
- Requirements:

A smartphone or tablet capable of scanning QR codes is needed. The mystery will incorporate the official LINE account for progression.

Kit Contents

- One clear file
- An eight-page puzzle kit (B5) and one puzzle sheet (B5)
- A pegged pencil

How to Participate

1. Purchase the puzzle kit and scan the QR code included inside to add the official LINE account.
2. Explore the venue while proceeding through the story and aim to solve the mystery!

Development Collaboration

The puzzle kit was created in collaboration with KAGENAZO, a team specializing in developing interactive content that stimulates regional engagement. KAGENAZO merges local attractions with mystery-solving, aiming to create new tourism opportunities while boosting local economies. Their vast experience in creating themed escape and puzzle events lends credibility to this exciting collaboration, allowing participants to engage with Niigata’s charms through a thoughtfully designed narrative and gameplay experience.

The Story Behind the Puzzle

At the heart of your adventure lies "THE NIIGATA," packed with the wonders of Niigata. Your sidekick in this mystery-solving journey is an affable, slightly tipsy gentleman, steeped in knowledge about Niigata’s sake, history, and regional delicacies. With a playful invitation, he encourages you to explore: "Come, let’s drink to uncover the mysteries of Niigata together!"
As you observe the carefully arranged local specialties and search for hidden clues, you traverse through the gallery to uncover the deep-seated culture of Niigata and the intricate association entwined with the ‘sake puzzle.’ Can you work alongside your quirky companion to reveal the entire story?

Future Prospects

This initiative is not a one-time event; it is set to be an ongoing attraction aimed at promoting repeat visits. There are plans for seasonal themes and story developments related to Niigata's culture to further engage visitors and foster a loyal customer base.

For more details, check the official event website!