I am currently using the JR East pass, and realized it goes as far west as parts of Niigata
I know Yuzawa is associated with winter sports, but think its worth while to go in the summer? there seems to be a lot of onsen places which may be nice in this cloudy weather, but wondering if there are other things to do and see
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In general, Echigo-Yuzawa area is considered all year destination. While it’s most famous for access to Gala Yuzawa and other skiing resorts in the area, it is also a gateway to wider Echigo area, which can provide in the summer rest from the extreme heat of Kanto Plain.
Note that 2022 is particularly good year to visit the area since it is hosting [Echigo-Tsumari Art Triennale](https://www.echigo-tsumari.jp/en/). Even if you are not that interested in modern art, the area has plenty of hiking routes and ropeways can be used to catch a glimpse of some really insane mountain scenery – and is usually less crowded than Takayama/Kamikochi.
You’d probably want to typically combine one of the JR East Passes with car rental to get the most out of your visit, however, a day trip itinerary combining JR East (Tohoku) pass with bus and some hiking (Kiyotsu Gorge) and Echigo-Tazawa (art destination) is certainly possible.