Travel on Sado Island
Model Courses

Shiizaki Suwa Shrine is perched on a hill overlooking Lake Kamo. It was built in 1376, as a shrine to where the god divided from Suwa Taisha, in Nagano Prefecture, was invited and reenshrined. It is, reputedly, a guardian god for the Kujihonma family, the neighbourhood manor's lord. The Noh stage, with its gable-style tiled roof, was built in 1902 (a Niigata Prefectural Tangible Cultural Asset) and hosts the largest number of Noh performances in Sado. Atmospheric bonfire Noh performances are held on Saturdays, from May until early October (excluding August). You can join workshops of Noh and shimai (a simplified version of Noh, which is danced/performed to jiuta songs).

Founded by Kobo Daishi (Kukai) in 807, Chokokuji Temple is an ancient temple which imitates Hasedera Temple in Yamato (present-day Nara Prefecture). The temple is where Zeami paid a visit after landing on Sado Island, and he mentioned the temple in his book Kintosho (Writings of the Golden Isle). The temple is also known as a temple of flowers, including peony. Chokokuji Temple owns a large number of cultural assets which shadow living history, varying from three Eleven-Headed Kannon Statues (National Important Cultural Properties), to statues of Kongo Rikishi (two wrath-filled guardians of the Buddha) made in the Heian Period (10th-12th centuries), as well as Gochido Hall. Within the grounds, there are also three cedar trees and Japanese Umbrella-pine trees, both of which belong to Niigata Prefecture's Natural Monuments.

Obata Shuzo Sake Brewery, the brewer of "Manotsuru" brand sake, was established in 1892. Obata Shuzo Sake Brewery has won the gold prize a total of ten times at the nation's most respected National New Sake Awards. It was also honoured three times with a prestigious gold medal in the sake category at the world's largest wine competition held in London, the International Wine Challenge, (in 2004, 2007 and 2015). They offer brewery tours and sake tasting as well a selection of sake for sale.

Sado Nishimikawa Gold Park is a hands-on facility situated on the old site of Nishimikawa Gold Dust Mine, which is thought to be the oldest among others. Anyone can easily try panning for gold on three levels: beginner, Intermediate, and advanced. On the advanced course, you will pan for gold on a river! The gold you panned for can be made into a phone strap or pendant (for a charge). You can learn about the history of gold in the exhibition room on-site, and there is a souvenir shop featuring their original goods including sweets and jewellery.

Sado Island Taiko Centre is run by Kodo Cultural Foundation, located on the hill in the neighbourhood of Kodo Village. The spacious hall constructed using Sado-produced timber produces joyful resonance. Tatakokan is home to two huge taiko drums that were hand-carved from an enormous 600-year-old keyaki (Japanese zelkova) log. "Taiko Experience" programs led by the Taiko Centre's instructors and a range of other events are on offer. The hall, exhibition room and a Japanese-style room are also available for rent.