Izakaya Nacchan

The collections of Niibo Museum of History and Folklore feature items of traditional performing arts and closely related to the everyday life of the common people, resources of Sado's history and culture including toki (Japanese crested ibises), as well as numerous archaeological objects such as the Japanese ancient bronze mirror unearthed at Tamatsukuri Ruins in Niibo. Workshops of rag-weaving and magatama making (both for a fee) are available. You can also have a chance to see works by Kiyoshi Yamamoto, who is remembered as having a deep connectiong with Niibo, and final works by the Niibo-native brothers of Bakusen Tsuchida (Japanese-style painter) and Kyoson Tsuchida (philosopher).

Green Village Patio House is an inn with a casual atmosphere situated in an idyllic setting in Niibo, known as the home to toki (Japanese crested ibises), and it attracts many fans locally and nationally. The accommodation is in a fantastic location close to temples and shrines with a long and distinguished history, and Toki Forest Park. You can enjoy cycling and trekking at nearby Niibo Dam which is surrounded by rich nature. Green Village Patio House is situated in Kuninaka Plain with a good access to other tourist spots, and is a popular as a base to explore Sado.

Hiyoshi Shrine is familiar to locals, and known as "Sanno-san". The shrine was established in 1226 for Emperor Juntoku, who was banished to Sado, after his high ranking servant, Kiyonori Ike, initiated dividing and re-enshrining the god enshrined at Hiyoshi Taisha Shrine in Omi (present-day Shiga Prefecture). Many wooden and stone statues of monkeys, messengers of a god, can be seen around the grounds of the shrine. The statues include the "three wise monkeys", which are Mizaru, covering his eyes; Kikazaru, covering his ears; and Iwazaru, covering his mouth. The most important annual festival is held over three days in April.

Minshuku Ohana's specialty menu is okonomiyaki (Japanese as-you-like-it savory pancakes) made with Sado's seafood, and cooked by the Osaka-born Okami (female manager). The previous master of the inn was a puppeteer of Noroma Puppets and operated a doll named "Ohana." Upon reservation, and for an additional fee, guests can enjoy a performance by a local puppet theatre group. Situated along the Minami (south) Line bus route and located close to Niibo Dam and Toki Forest Park, Minshuku Ohana is a homey inn with a great location.

Chozaburo is a renowned restaurant serving Sado-style sushi, thronging with locals and tourists. It delights you with the freshest toppings directly sourced from Ryotsu Market and local fishermen. You can also savour name-brand toppings such as tuna from Oma and sea urchin from Aomori, available only at renowned sushi shops. The menu also covers options such as set meals and donburi (a bowl of rice with toppings). Chinese ramen noodles passed down from preceding generations boast a refreshing taste. A combination meal of sushi and ramen noodles has achieved great popularity.

Opened over forty years ago in one corner of a shopping street, Snack Bar Noroma has gained popularity recently with its hand-made dishes by the master and hostess. The top menu item is undoubtedly the "Special Katsu Sando." It is a filling, signature sandwich made by topping slices of bread with sauce-soaked, thick pork cutlets. Moreover, dishes prepared with a little bit of extra care, including curry over rice, gyoza dumplings, croquettes and more, have achieved popularity among regulars.

Izakaya Matoi, located on a corner in a rustic setting, specialises in chicken dishes. The kitchen serves over twenty kinds of chicken dishes such as Chicken Nanban (marinated deep-fried chicken) with tartare sauce containing boiled eggs, nibbles, pasta, pizza and rice or noodle dishes. The wide range of menu items enchants its customers. Yakitori, finished with a special sauce passed down from the previous generation, consists of various items from rare parts to original, creative ingredients. "Sado's Special Big Takoyaki" which won the grand prize of "Sado Island's Gourmet Contest" is highly recommended.

Arinko is a local's favourite in the Niibo area. The pub has counter seats and a section floored with tatami mats which provide the characteristic cosy feel of a genuine izakaya pub. Dishes to complement sake (Japanese whisky) is prepared by the Okami female manager, who is fastidious about locally produced ingredients. They offer a wide range of hearty food, including grilled skewers and fish, handmade gyoza dumplings, rolled omelette, etc. Arinko can accommodate parties according to your budget.