Drive Sado Island with Ease – Sado Kisen Car Rental Right off the Ferry

Ever dreamed of a road trip on one of Japan’s remote islands? Sado Island, off the coast of Niigata, is perfect for a free-spirited drive. The island is about 280 km around, and while buses and taxis exist, they’re limited. If you want to explore at your own pace, renting a car is the way to go. With Sado Kisen Car Rental, you can pick up your car right at the ferry terminals—no hassle, no detours. Walk off the ferry at Ryotsu or Ogi Port and you’re ready to hit the road. You can rent on the spot, but cars are limited, so booking ahead is safer—especially during Japanese holidays and summer. Options range from compact cars to 8-seater vans, but the most popular? The sporty Mazda Roadster. Nothing beats cruising the coast with the sea breeze on your face.

Sado Kisen Car Rental at Ryotsu and Ogi Ports
Local Tip: Don’t Miss Ōnogame
Returning Your Car: Things to Remember
Stay Safe and Enjoy the Scenic Drive

Sado Kisen Car Rental at Ryotsu and Ogi Ports

Pick up your car right at Sado’s two main ferry gateways: Ryotsu Port and Ogi Port (open from late March to mid-November). Step off the ferry and start driving. Just make sure you have the required documents—these vary by country, so check before your trip.

Local Tip: Don’t Miss Ōnogame

Ask the locals and they’ll point you to Ōnogame, a massive rock jutting out into the Sea of Japan. In early summer, the area turns gold with about 500,000 Tobishima daylilies—in Japan, they’re found only here and on Tobishima in Yamagata. The sight of this golden carpet against the ocean is breathtaking and an absolute must-see if you’re visiting in late May through early June.

Returning Your Car: Things to Remember

When it’s time to return the car, stick to the basics: be on time and bring it back with a full tank of the correct gas for your car. One more tip—make sure you leave a phone number that works in Japan. Staff may need to reach you in case of any issues.

Stay Safe and Enjoy the Scenic Drive

Sado’s beauty can be distracting. Many drivers get too caught up in the views and end up clipping guardrails. Instead, pull over at safe spots to soak it all in. Keep safety first, and you’ll have an unforgettable road trip around Sado Island.

About the Writer

Sayaka Yano

Living in Hokkaido and a mother of two. I have been fascinated by Japanese culture since childhood, and even now, just seeing a castle makes me happy. I never miss movies or period dramas featuring ninjas! Japan is still full of wonderful regions and unique cultures that are not yet well known. I will share these hidden charms of Japan in a clear and enjoyable way.

Information

Address	Ryotsu Port: 353 Ryotsu Minato, Sado City, Niigata Prefecture 　Ogi Port: 1950 Ogi-machi, Sado City, Niigata Prefecture
Website	https://www.sadokisen.co.jp/rentacar/
Opening Hours	Ryotsu Port Store: 8:00 AM - 6:40 PM (Open year-round, 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM during the New Year holidays) Ogi Port Store: 9:00 AM - 5:10 PM (Open late March - mid-November, closed during the winter)
Reservations	Reservations required via the official website

Manners to Follow

Be on time (and let the staff know if you’ll be late)
　　No alcohol for drivers

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