Keikuji Temple

Honkoji Temple in Miyakawa was established by Nichigyo Shonin, with Nichiro Shonin as the first head priest. Within the precinct, you can see relics closely related to Nichiren (exiled founder of the Nichiren School of Buddhism): including the "Shamen-ishi", a seating stone where Nichiren Shonin seated himself when his lead disciple Nichiro Shonin delivered and revealed an amnesty letter from Kamakura; and "Kesagake no Matsu," a pine tree where Nichiren hung his monastic robe.

Two different versions of the folk tale "Anju and Zushio" have been passed down from generation to generation in Sado. Hatano is arguably the place where Anju passed away while on her way to Kyoto, after she and her brother had a reunion with their mother. This mound is said to be the burial place of some of her mementos such as her favorite comb. It has been worshipped for good harvests, and for miracles in finding a partner and healing eye diseases. Anju Tenjin Festival takes place every summer.

Tamemori Endo (Abutsubo Nittoku Shonin) served Nichiren upon being exiled to Sado and became an avid believer of the Hokke mantra. Together with his wife, Sen-nichini (a Buddhist nun), he opened his residence as a temple in 1278, and this is said to be the origin of Myosenji Temple. The temple used to be a residence of the Takeda Honma clan, deputy governor of Sado, and the ambience of a castle still remains. On site stands the only five-story pagoda in Niigata Prefecture, as well as the grave of Suketomo Hino, who was forced into exile on Sado after the Shochu Incident.

Daizen Shrine sits in a rustic setting resembling the landscape of Asuka in Nara Prefecture. Honma Yamashironokami, the manor's lord, initiated the enshrinement of Suketomo Hino (an exiled court noble) and Daizenbo (an ascetic hermit) together, while Miketsuokami (the god of food) is enshrined at the main building. When Kumawakamaru, the son of Suketomo Hino, came over to Sado to revenge his father's death by execution, Daizenbo helped him escape and was, consequently, executed. This shrine reputedly houses Daizenbo in order to calm his revengeful ghost. Reconstructed in 1846, the Noh stage with its thatched and hipped roof (designated a Niigata Prefecture Tangible Folk Cultural Asset), is one of the four Noh stages in the Kuninaka area where Noh performances were regularly held. It is said to be the oldest Noh stage still in existence in Sado. At present, Noh performances are offered at a festival on the 18th of April; and in June, Noh and Sagi School's Kyogen performances take place.

Ajigokoro Kagura offers three options for traditional Japanese multi-course dinners: Hana (flower) for 3,500 JPY, Irodori (color) for 4,000 JPY, and Miyabi (elegance) for 5,000 JPY. Sashimi, the tempura set and the seafood rice bowl, all prepared with seasonal ingredients, are also gaining popularity.

Tengu, named after the legendary crow-like yokai with a long nose, has won praise for its fish dishes. The kitchen delivers daily specials centering around sashimi and grilled fish. The chef, who loves fishing, sometimes serves his haul of the day. Chargrilled Yakiniku and Yakitori are popular menu items, be it your main dish or a nibble to accompany your drinks. Tengu serves set meals and Chinese ramen noodles during lunchtime hours. This is a reliable place for a casual lunch, or visiting for food and drinks in the evening.

Shikisai Kappo Den is a Japanese-style restaurant offering a variety of dishes utilizing local ingredients. Every dish is lovingly and carefully prepared by the chef. Delve into deliciousness accompanied by Sado's local and tasty sake. Lunch is served only on weekdays.

Ougi Zushi is a sushi bar located on main street, and a popular venue for leisurely lunches and dinners . You can feast on sushi crafted with seasonal seafood toppings and sushi rice served at body temperature with mild acidity. Other highlights include seasonal miso soup. Ougi Zushi also serves unagi (grilled and basted eel) in summer and hot pot dishes in winter. The voluminous "tendon" (rice bowl with tempura) is popular at lunchtime. Ougi Zushi provides three sections with tatami mat flooring, and is ideal for parties.