Ai-port Sado

Within the grounds of Sado Japan Coast Guard Station, a Japanese black pine tree with beautifully shaped branches stands nineteen metres tall, and has a girth of six metres. It used to be a navigational aid for maritime pilots at sea, and is mentioned in the folk song, "Ryotsu Jinku". Murasame no Matsu used to be called "Otabisho no Matsu" (a pine tree at the midway resting point of a god during a procession), or "Gobansho no Matsu" (a pine tree at a port observation post). Koyo Ozaki, a novelist who visited Sado in the Meiji times (1868-1912), thought the tree getting splashed by waves resembled the wetness of getting caught in a shower of rain (called "murasame" in Japanese). The tree's name is derived from this episode. Murasame no Matsu is a Niigata Prefecture Natural Monument.

Umaimon-ya's retail focuses on locally produced foodstuffs, prepared foods, and processed foods. Here, local producers and their spouses personally sell and give you hints about how to prepare and cook their bounty. A second retail site is located in the Sado Information Center, just a 2-minute walk away. If you are on Sado, please drop in.

Hotaru is a Japanese-style pub with a home-like atmosphere. Nibbles such as deep-fried natto (fermented soy beans) and squid balls are well regarded for its deliciousness. Among them, the grilled pork skewers, which are freshly prepared once an order is made, is especially scrumptious. They are grilled with sweet miso (bean paste) sauce, which compliments the pork perfectly. Hotaru is also famous for its flavourful Chinese ramen noodles. The ever-popular "chilled Chinese ramen noodles" has a light taste and is also highly recommended.

At Ishihara Sushi (sushi shop), you will be welcomed by the kind master chef and his family. The master chef's parents run a fish shop, and seafood is selected by the fish connoisseur at the nearby Ryotsu Fish Market every day. This means that freshness is guaranteed. Sushi toppings of the day displayed on the blackboard are full of seasonal flavours. Rice used is the koshihikari type grown in Sado. Ishihara Sushi is tucked away within "Yurakugai", an alleyway with eateries and bars in Ryotsu. The restaurant might be hard to find, but it is such a hidden gem that tourists take the time and effort to find and visit.

This is a Japanese-style izakaya pub located in Ryotsu, where you can enjoy local sake and seasonal seafood. The chef skillfully brings out the best of each ingredient, carefully preparing every dish—from authentic multi-course kaiseki meals to simple sake accompaniments. The tranquil interior includes counter seating, perfect for solo diners looking to relax. Whether for a casual meal, an evening party, or daytime celebrations (reservations required), Ryanto invites you to savor the abundant blessings of Sado's gourmet culture to your heart’s content.