What's New

The best places to see Cherry Blossoms on Sado Island

Welcome to Sado Island, a hidden gem in Japans landscape that comes alive with a burst of color every spring. Known for its rich cultural heritage and stunning natural beauty, Sado Island is a great place to escape the tourist crowds of larger cities and enjoy Japans Sakura (cherry blossom) season. There are numerous flower spots scattered around the island that you can explore, so get your camera and a picnic ready! In this blog post, well take you on a virtual tour of some of the best cherry blossom viewing sites on Sado.  Spot #1: Sado Gold Mine ParkThis historic site is a very popular place to see cherry blossoms. The road up to the Gold Mine and around the grounds is lined with the trees. The blossoms are also lit up at night during the height of the season. This year, the light-up event is planned for March 29th - April 14th, in the evening hours of 19:00 - 21:30. Address: 1305 Shimoaikawa, Sado, Niigata 952-1501By Bus: right in front of Kinzanjaya-mae (main line)     Spot #2: Mano ParkMano Park is the perfect place for a picnic, and with about 2000 sakura trees, this is Sado’s premiere cherry blossom viewing spot! You can also visit Mano Shrine, dedicated to Emperor Juntoku. Come visit after sundown, when the trees are illuminated for night-time cherry blossom viewing, known in Japan as yozakura. This year's light-up at Mano Park will be held from April 1st to April 20th from 17:30 - 21:00. Address: 655 Mano, Sado, Niigata 952-0313By Bus: 3 minutes walk from Manomiya-mae (Akadomari Line), 20 minutes walk from Mano Goryo Entrance (Ogi Line), and directly in front of the Sado History and Legend Museum stop (Ogi Line - on Saturdays and Sundays only).   Spot #3: Niibo DamEnjoy some 1,500 cherry trees spanning around 20 varieties. Niibo dam is definitely one of Sado’s top cherry blossom viewing destinations. In spring, the area bustles with photographers and picnickers coming to enjoy the flowers. Address: 1072-1 Kaminiibo, Sado, Niigata 952-0108By Bus: 30 minute walk from the Ryokomura Uryuya bus stop      Spot #4: Shiroyama Park (Ogi)Ogi is the southern gateway to Sado Island, and once prospered as a gold and silver shipping port and port of call for Kitamaebune ships during the Edo period. Shiroyama Park is located on a hill where you will find about 500 cherry trees. It is also where the “Kodo: Earth Celebration” was originally held annually in late August. Address: Ogi, Sado, Niigata 952-0604By Bus: 15 minutes walk from Ogi (Ogi Line)    Spot #5: Lake KamoJust a few minutes walk from Ryotsu Port, Lake Kamo is the biggest lake in Niigata Prefecture, and one of the most picturesque spots in Sado, with sections of the promenade lined with cherry trees. A great way to take in the views is by renting an e-bike in Ryotsu from Sado Outdoor Base and cycling around the circumference of the lake. For more details on E-bike Rentals: Outdoor Base For more details on the route: Lake Kamo Course       Spot #6: Tanemaki Sakura (Hojobo temple in Hamochi Osaki)This beautiful rosebud cherry tree, the Tanemaki Sakura, is about 20m high and 6.9 meters in circumference at its base, and is estimated to be over 250 years old! Legend has it that the former chief priest of Osaki’s Uenobo Temple retired to Hojobo Temple in his later years, and when he traveled around the country as an ascetic, he bought a cherry seedling in Yoshino and brought it back here. Address: 1167 Hamochi Osaki, Sado, Niigata 952-0252By Bus: 15 minutes walk from Ogi (Ogi Line)    Spot #7: Shinbo Hachimangu Shrine Check out the beautiful path up to this shrine lined with cherry blossoms. There is also a festival held here every April 15th where you can see Onidaiko drumming and other traditional arts! Timing your visit with the Taiko Drumming Festival adds an extra layer of cultural richness to your cherry blossom experience. Address: 1109 Kanai Shinbo, Sado, Niigata 952-1208By Bus: 3 minutes walk the Undo Koen Mae bus stop (Honsen Line)      Spot #8: Karasaki Shrine (Yoshii) You’ll notice the bright pink cherry blossoms that line the long path up to this small shrine’s gate, visible all the way from the main highway. Take a moment to reflect as you witness the harmonious blend of natural beauty and spiritual tranquility. Address: Yoshiihongo, Sado, Niigata 952-1202By Bus: 3 minutes walk the Yamato bus stop (Honsen Line)   ConclusionSado Island's cherry blossom spots are the perfect place for a sensory journey through history, culture, and nature, away from the crowds of the mainland. Whether you're a solo traveler seeking tranquility or a group of friends ready for a picnic party, Sado Island caters to all. So, pack your bags, grab your camera, and explore all the blooming sakura Sado Island has to offer! 

Sado Island was featured by JNTO as a Sustainable Destination!

We are thrilled to share that Sado Island has been featured as a Sustainable Tourism destination on the official Japan National Tourism Organization (JNTO) website! Nestled in the clear waters of the Sea of Japan, Sado Island offers a quiet escape from the hustle and bustle of city life. But what makes it truly remarkable is its commitment to sustainable practices. As travelers, we have a responsibility to tread lightly on the planet, and Sado Island sets an inspiring example of how tourism can be a force for good. By supporting sustainable initiatives, we not only enrich our own experiences but also contribute to the well-being of local communities and ecosystems. Check out the full article on the JNTO website to read more about how residents have worked to preserve its natural beauty and traditions for generations to come, and start planning your Sado Island adventure today!

Obata Sake Brewery got introduced in Sustainable Japan Magazine

Obata Sake Brewery has been producing high-quality rice wine for over 130 years now and under the leadership of the fifth generation`s head, Obata Rumiko, successfully built a bridge between the small island of Sado and the world by introducing several ambitious projects.The following article was published in Sustainable Japan Magazine.Learn more about Obata Sake Brewery`s efforts in the following articles. Obata Brewery Distills Sado`s Charms Into Sake: Sake Brewers Deepen Their Learning In Sado:

About the earthquake

On January 1st, 2024, the Noto Peninsula in Ishikawa Prefecture was hit by a series of strong earthquakes up to intensity 7. The earthquakes also affected many other parts of the Chubu region along the strip facing the Sea of Japan, including Sado Island. Although some damage occurred such as landslides and liquefaction on roads, the earthquakes did not have a serious impact on everyday life in Sado. We welcome travelers as usual, however, if you have any questions feel free to inquire. Inquiry Form: 

Sado Island in 2 days on 2 Wheels: 100km Cycling Adventure

This two-day, 100km cycling route will bring you back in time to the age of the gold rush on Sado Island. Travel from Ryotsu Port on Sado’s eastern coast, across the island to the Sado Gold Mines, and then to the southern tip of Ogi to Shukunegi Shipbuilder’s Village, before heading back to the mainland via the Ogi – Naoetsu Ferry.Every pedal stroke unveils a new surprise as you cycle through Sado’s history, culture, and natural beauty. Let the wind (and this guide) carry you across the island, leaving you with lots of memories (and great Instagram photos) to carry home with you!Notes on Cycling on Sado, Bike rentals and Bus OptionsOn this two-day course, you’ll travel a distance of over 100km with a total elevation gain of over 1000 meters. Sado’s terrain is not flat – and uphill cycling can be a real workout! Luckily, you can rent e-bikes on Sado that will boost you up and over hills with ease (alternatively, you can also bring your own bike to the island – more on that later). Another option to increase the accessibility of this guide is to combine the local bus with bike rentals in Aikawa & Ogi (instead of cycling the entire route). To do so, hop on a local bus from Ryotsu Aikawa and rent an e-bike there at the Aikawa information center (Kirarium), that you can use to explore the area. On the next day, take the local bus down to Ogi, and pick up an e-bike to explore the area at Ogi.Day One: Ryotsu to Aikawa(approx 50km/30 miles cycling)View Route on Google Maps: to Sado IslandOur trip starts at Niigata port. You have a few options to get here – fly into Niigata Airport or take the shinkansen (bullet train) to Niigata station. From both you will have to bus/taxi to the port. There are a lot of hotels in Niigata city, so you might also want to stay overnight the night before traveling to the island. Morning Ferry Ride Niigata to Ryotsu (9:15 – 11:55)Ryotsu portAt Niigata Port, the Sado Kisen Ferry to Sado Island awaits. We’ll ride the 9:15 car ferry, which gets us to the island at noon. The ferry is spacious and comfortable with plenty of room to stretch out. Grab something to eat in the onboard cafe, and then head above-board to catch some views of the mountains as we approach Sado Island, setting the tone for an exciting trip! To bring your own bike to Sado, pack it in a bike bag and pay the 520 yen charge at the ticket window to carry it on the ferry (If your bike bag exceeds 2 meters in combined dimensions L+W+H) Check here for more fare details: Port - E-Bike RentalIf you are planning to rent a bike on Sado, upon reaching Ryotsu Port, head straight to the Sado Tourism Information Center inside the Ferry Terminal to gear up with a rental e-bike. We recommend the Sports Type bikes – they powerful and convenient, making it easy to explore the island, climb hills, and take back roads. Unfortunately only one size is available, so if you’re 6 feet or taller, you might find the frame a little small. You’ll also want to budget an extra 1,500 yen for the charge to drop the bike off at Ogi, and 500 yen to swap your battery at the half-way point of our trip, in Aikawa Information Center.  Sports Type Specs Rental Fee Model: Panasonic XU1 Minimum Rider Height: 159cm (5’2”) – Maximum 178cm (5’8”) Saddle Height: 80-99cm Battery: On flat land with one full charge and set to ‘Auto’ mode – can travel 57km (35.4 miles) Basic Charge (up to 2 hours): 2,000 yen Each Additional Hour: 500 yen 24-hour Rental: 4,500 yen Charge to return bike to another location: 1500 yen Battery Exchange: 500 yen Helmet: 500 yen Fuel up at Oni CafeOni-kinWith our ride all set, let’s make a quick pit stop to a local cafe. ‘Oni Cafe’ is aptly named after Sado Island’s famous ‘Oni-daiko,’ a tradition combining traditional Japanese drumming and dance. The cafe owner, Yukari-san, is a big oni-daiko lover, and you can try her specialty ‘Oni-kin,’ a sweet-filled pastry in the shape of Sado Island and an oni mask! The masks might look scary… but Oni are actually considered hero-like reincarnations of the gods on Sado island. The pastries are really tasty with a cup of fresh coffee too! Rice field Cruising & Sado Island WildlifeWatching spotThis route takes us through the back roads with hills and picturesque views of small villages, rice fields and Sado’s Osado Mountain range in the distance. You might even be greeted with the occasional surprise appearance of a mischievous tanuki (Japanese raccoon dog). Don’t forget to keep an eye on the sky – you don’t want to miss spotting the Sado Island toki birds (Japanese crested ibis) flying above! Visit Seisuiji Temple and Myosenji TempleSeisuiji TempleTake a moment to visit Seisuiji Temple (free entrance), which feels like a forest sanctuary. Established in 808, this is Sado’s oldest temple. At the time, the emperor took pity on the people of Sado who couldn’t travel to Kyoto to make pilgrimages to Kiyomizu-dera, and he ordered a miniature version be constructed on Sado – Seisuiji!Myosenji TempleContinue along the route across the island until you reach Myosenji Temple (free entrance). Established in 1278 by a monk of the Nichiren sect of Buddhism who accompanied Emperor Juntoku when he was exiled to Sado Island. People say Myosenji’s construction is modeled on the Toshogu Shrine in Nikko. Take a walk around the grounds and soak in the peaceful atmosphere – you might even find you have the entire place to yourself!Aikawa Area – Exploring the Sado Gold Mine RelicsSado is famous for it’s gold mining past. The discovery of gold on the island had a huge impact on the culture of the island, as it brought people from all walks of life and all different regions from across the Japanese archipelago, who each brought their own unique traditions and dialects to the island. Sado became a sort of ‘melting pot’ of culture due to the gold rush! Kirarium SadoWe’ll start by heading to Kirarium Sado. This information center/museum is the gateway to Sado’s cultural heritage. It’s also a bike rental station, so if you’re low on battery charge, this is the time to swap out our e-bike battery for a fresh one (500 yen charge). If your battery is still good, you can opt to swap it the next morning (the info center opens at 8:30).Sado Gold MineFirst, dive into gold mine history by viewing the exhibition (300 yen entrance fee), then head up the hill to the Sado Gold Mine. Choose between exploring the Edo-period tunnels in the Sodayu Mine (older history) or Meiji-period tunnels in the Doyu Mine (modern mining history). Entrance is 1000 yen for either, or 1500 yen to see both tunnels. Last entry is 17:00 (or 16:30 from Nov-March). *Note the gold mine facilities will be closed for renovations from January 6, 2023 – March 15, 2023!The Sado BugyoshoKitazawa Flotation PlantHistoric Kyomachi StreetAfter exploring the mines, head back down the hill, pass through Historic Kyomachi Street, stop by The Sado Bugyosho (Old Commissioner’s Office), and finally end up at the Kitazawa Flotation Plant. These ruins are a relic of the mine’s modern history, but they’ve gained popularity in recent years for the aesthetic similarity to the Ghibli Film Laputa (Castle in the Sky). There’s also a cafe here – Kitazawa Terrace - so stop by for a bite to eat before heading to your hotel.Evening in Aikawa Overnight stay in a historic gold rush town. Some hotels offer shuttles to the Kitazawa Flotation Plant which is lit up at night, and a few higher-end spots offer private onsen baths with ocean views. Be sure to book to have your dinner/breakfast in the hotel to enjoy a variety of fresh locally-sourced Sado foods.Day Two: Aikawa to Ogi(approx 50km/30 miles cycling)View Route on Google Maps: CruisingDay two promises us an exhilarating 50km ride from Aikawa to Ogi, with great coastal views of Sado Island's beaches. There’s a lot of things to see, so get an early start if you want to be able to hit all the spots below!But before setting off, check your e-bike battery and if necessary swap it for a fresh one at Kirarium Sado Information Center (opens 8:30, pay a 500 yen fee to swap for a new battery). Then, off to our first spot of the day!Nanaura coast views at MeotoiwaMeotoiwaPeople say this geological formation composed of two large rocks looks like a couple, giving it its name Meotoiwa which literally means “couple rocks.” This scenic spot, a symbol of the Nanaura coast, is said to bring luck in finding a partner!Souvenirs for Sake lovers at Obata Shuzo Sake BreweryObata Shuzo Sake BreweryAfter a loop around the Nanaura coastline, we head to Obata Shuzo Sake Brewery where you can pick up a few of Sado’s most popular sakes - perfect souvenirs for your trip home! There’s even a sake that it’s served in Air France’s first class cabins… fancy!Tea time at Shimafumi CafeShimafumi CaféCycle along the coast, pass the jinmeiwa (whaddya know – that oddly-shaped rock looks like a human head!), and head up the hill. Time to catch your breath at Shimafumi Cafe, a hidden gem overlooking Mano bay. Refuel with delicious breads and hot coffee while soaking in the panoramic views of the bay. Sobama BeachSobama BeachFrom Shimafumi, its a 20km push to Ogi! Cycle across the hills, or head down and pass Sobama Beach. This long sandy coastline might even entice you to jump in and go for a　swim! Showers are available at Sobama Campground, depending on the season.Visit Kisaki ShrineKisaki ShrineAfter reaching Ogi area and heading down the hill, make a visit to the old Kisaki shrine. Sado Magistrate Nagayasu Okubo ordered the shrine to be built in 1609 to pray for the prosperity of the gold and silver mines. All the gold mined on Sado was actually stored here in this shrine before being exported to the mainland from Ogi Port.Explore Shukunegi VillageShukunegi VillageIt’s a short 15-20 minute ride over to Shukunegi village. This small village of clustered houses has a rich maritime history and was a thriving port during the Edo Period (1603-1868). It’s a pretty unique atmosphere, something very special to Sado Island, so you can’t miss it! This village served as a stopover point for the Kitamaebune, or Edo-era trading vessels. You can really tell this was a town of shipbuilders by exploring its streets and seeing the unique and masterful architecture of its houses (entrance to the village is a suggested 100 yen donation). There’s also Ogi Folk Museum where you can explore the inside of a life-size replica of a 19th century Sengoku ship!Lunch in ShukunegiAt Shukunegi, you have several options for lunch. Try the hand-cut soba noodles at Yoshikawa-tei, at the entrance of the village, or treat yourself to something refined with a course lunch at the French-fusion restaurant Anaguchitei (inside of a beautiful old residence/garden). You can even go for pizza in Shukunegi at Yamashita Cafe.Take a Ride on a TaraibuneTaraibuneTaraibune are wooden tub-boats traditionally used for fishing in shallow waters. You can take a ride on the taraibune at three different places: here in Shukunegi, at Yajima Kyojima or at Ogi Port. It’s a great opportunity to experience an iconic Sado tradition! Here at Shukunegi, the taraibune are called hangiri. There are several different lengths of rides you can choose from (A course, B course, etc) and if you’re lucky, Asti the cute taraibune-riding German shepard might even be around!Adventure on the Shukunegi Caves TrailAfter your taraibune ride – look over the bay. Do you see what looks like the entrance to a cave? This is the Shukunegi caves trail! Walk through the tunnel and through to the other side, you’ll find a landscape that looks like another world – or maybe mars! This open, flat, and rocky area used to be used as a place to gather sea salt, seaweed, and repair ships. The ground is definitely uneven, so watch your step!Yajima KyojimaYajima KyojimaOn your way back to Ogi port, stop by Yajima Kyojima. One of the most famous scenic spots on Sado, two small islands connected by a bright red bridge float above emerald-green waters. There are quite a few legends about this beautiful place. One story says that a disciple of Nichiren shipwrecked here and spent an entire night reciting sutra. You might notice a stone monument on the path – ‘Omitsu no Hi.’ This monument is to a tragic folk story of a girl from Sado who fell in love with a man from the mainland and lost her life traveling back and forth to the mainland by taraibune! We don’t recommend trying to cross the sea to the mainland, but definitely try the taraibune rides here where you can explore the inner bay and snap some sweet photos for instagram.Optional: Feel the rhythm at TatakoukanTatakoukanAdd a musical note to your Sado Island adventure! Did you know KODO, the internationally-acclaimed taiko drumming group, is based on Sado Island? They run Tataoukan, a center where visitors can experience taiko drumming with KODO instructors. The taiko drumming experience requires a reservation in advance, and its a bit of a climb up the hill to get here, but its definitely worth it! This is a fun, thrilling experience that will get you feeling the rhythmic beats of KODO's taiko drums. Evening Ferry from Ogi Port (17:20 – 20:00)Ogi portCongratulations! If you’ve made it this far, you traveled along the old gold route! In the olden days, gold was mined in Aikawa, and then carried to Ogi where it was shipped off to the mainland. Are you feeling golden?! Wrap up your cycling journey by returning your e-bikes at the tourism information center in Ogi. Take a stroll around the Ogi town, and pop into a local restaurant for a bite to eat before catching the 17:20 ferry back to the mainland.Overnight Stay in NaoetsuArriving in Naoetsu at 20:00, its time to recharge for your journey onward, wherever that might be. From Naoetsu, you have options to travel to Toyama and Kanazawa, or to Nagano’s northern alps. You can also on on the Hokuriku Shinkansen back to Tokyo from here.Tell us about your Visit!Sado Island might not be as well a known destination to visit in Japan as the big-names Kyoto, Osaka, Nara, etc. but, the island is a quirky gem, with a certain charm as a place where nature, tradition, and culture coalesce. Did you tackle the entire 100kms on Sado Island, or did you make your own adventure? What did you discover during your trip? We’d love to hear about it! Join the community over on Facebook or Instagram, or simply leave us a Google Review on Maps. Sado will be waiting for your next visit! Until then, may your travels be filled with more off-the-beaten-track adventures on two wheels. Bon voyage, fellow traveler! 

SADO NIIGATA PASS

This pass is available to all JR EAST/JR RAIL PASS holders. See here for more details.