AJIYOSHI

This bronze statue of Nichiren (founder of the Nichiren School of Buddhism and an exile to Sado) was erected as a result of the concerted contribution of over 3,000 monks and followers all around Japan, and as a part of a celebration for the 750th anniversary since the establishment of the Nichiren School. With Ryotsu Bay as its backdrop, the statue stands facing India, the Buddha's birthplace, at approximately 13 metres high (26 metres including the base). The statue appears with a great dignity well-suited to Sado, which is closely related to Nichiren.

Located close to Sado Kisen's Ryotsu Ferry Terminal, the gateway to Sado, Maruka Ryokan is a convenient inn perfect for fishing, sea bathing and sightseeing. The beautiful view over Lake Kamo in front and Ryotsu Bay at the back makes will leave you enchanted. Dishes made from fresh seafood sourced from Ryotsu Market next door are popular among locals too. Maruka Ryokan also welcomes solo travellers who wish to stay without a meal package, and is also ideal for business travellers.

Christianity is considered to have been brought to Sado first in the Edo Period (1603-1867). Ryotsu Catholic Church was founded by a French Christian missionary, Fr. Drouart De Lezey. It was burnt down once in 1883, but was reconstructed by a missionary, De Noailles, in 1887. The church building was designed by Father Papino, who designed many churches in Japan.

Established in 1945, Yutakaya Ryokan has gained a reputation as an inn which serves rich harvest of the sea and the mountains full of rustic flavours, and beautifully presented, modern, creative cuisines. Close to Sado Kisen's Ryotsu Ferry Terminal, the inn is a convenient base for sightseeing. Yutakaya Ryokan enjoys popularity among fishers and divers. The inn also welcomes solo travellers who wish to stay without any meal plans, and ideal for business travellers.

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.

Taro is an exciting restaurant offering creative dishes. A hospitable master chef will welcome you and skillfully serves his delicious dishes. "Tofu (bean curd) Pizza" is especially popular for ladies. The menu has an impressive selection of mouth-watering dishes such as beer-battered deep-fried chicken, German potato salad in downtown style, and Taro's mapo tofu (hot and spicy bean curd). It confidently provides an ample selection of shochu (Japanese distilled spirits).

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.