Nagaoka is a city located in Niigata Prefecture, Japan. It is known for its rich history, particularly its role in the development of the Japanese silk industry during the Edo period. The city is also famous for its beautiful natural scenery, including the Chūetsu region and the Shinanogawa River. The city hosts the annual Nagaoka Fireworks Festival, one of the largest fireworks displays in Japan, attracting many visitors each year. Nagaoka is also home to several educational institutions, including Nagaoka University of Technology, which contributes to its reputation as a center for innovation and research.