Photo/Illutration A straw sculpture of Fujin (god of wind) appears to greet people in Uwasekigata Koen park in Niigata’s Nishikan Ward on Aug. 31. (Yoshinobu Motegi)

NIIGATA—Five huge sculptures made with rice straw aptly represent the theme of Niigata city’s annual Wara Art Festival: legends of Echigo Province.

The event, running at Uwasekigata Koen park until Oct. 31, is aimed at promoting the area’s reputation as a leading producer of rice.

The legends of Echigo Province, or present-day Niigata Prefecture, include: Raijin (god of thunder); Fujin (god of wind); a big serpent; Nekomata (cat monster); and Reigan (spiritual goose).

The sculptures were produced by 20 students from Musashino Art University in Tokyo and Tohoku University of Art and Design in Yamagata Prefecture, with assistance from about 50 local residents.

Each installation uses around 500 kilograms of straw. They are so large and sturdy that visitors can sit on them and take photos.

The sculptures are lit up between 6 p.m. and 8:30 p.m. on Fridays, weekends and holidays until Sept. 29.

A local market is also held at the park between 10 a.m. and 7:30 p.m. on weekends and holidays until Sept. 29, offering agricultural products, traditional handicrafts and other items.

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