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.

If you want a unique food experience in Japan, head to Sado Island in Niigata. Right along the beautiful Sawada Coast, you’ll find SEISUKE Next Door, a reservation-only restaurant offering something you won’t find anywhere else — Wa Hakko French (= Japanese Fermentation French) cuisine, which blends Japanese fermented flavors like miso and soy sauce with French-inspired dishes made from Sado’s fresh local ingredients. The restaurant’s large windows look out over the ocean, offering beautiful coastline views. Visit at sunset for an unforgettable, romantic dinner. And for the perfect getaway, book a stay at the villa next door to soak up the island’s nature, gourmet dining, and laid-back vibes.

Looking for a one-of-a-kind stay in Japan? Gyokurinji, a temple lodge on Sado Island in Niigata Prefecture, offers a unique chance to experience monastic life while staying in a traditional Japanese house. Part of the temple where the head priest resides offers a guest space, giving you the feeling of a homestay in a real temple. Guests can join morning prayers, try sutra copying, and take part in various activities at their own pace. There are also opportunities to connect with the local community, making your stay even more enriching. Surrounded by Sado’s beautiful nature, this is the perfect place to refresh your mind and body. If you’re looking for an immersive cultural experience, Gyokurinji is the place to be!

Looking for a unique way to reach one of Japan’s hidden gems? Hop on a ferry from Niigata and cross the Sea of Japan to Sado Island. This remote island is known for its untouched nature, fresh seafood, and rich cultural history. Once a major gold and silver mining site, the Aikawa Gold and Silver Mine is now part of the UNESCO World Heritage ‘Sado Gold Mines,’ and the island still preserves the charm of old Japan. Sado Kisen, the main ferry service, operates two routes from Niigata with two types of boats: the car ferry and the high-speed jetfoil. The car ferry lets you relax on deck, soak in ocean views, and even bring your car or bike along for easy travel around the island. The jetfoil, on the other hand, takes just over an hour, making it perfect for those short on time. You can even mix and match—take the ferry to Sado, then return quickly on the jetfoil. It’s an ideal trip for travelers looking to go beyond the usual sightseeing and experience a deeper side of Japan.

Located in the Sea of Japan, Sado Island offers breathtaking coastal views. Perched on a hill along its west coast, SADO RESORT HOTEL AZUMA is a seaside resort with incredible ocean scenery and stunning sunsets right from your room. The hotel is surrounded by a vast Japanese garden, with a direct path leading down to the shore—perfect for a seaside stroll or fun water activities. Don’t forget to snap a photo on the iconic white swing, a favorite Instagram spot! After a day of adventure, relax in the hotel’s soothing hot spring and unwind in style.

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.

Located on Sado Island’s Kasugazaki coast, HOTEL OOSADO is a resort where every room offers stunning ocean views. From your window, you can enjoy views of the Sea of Japan and Doyu no Warito, a dramatic mountain split created by gold mining. At sunset, the scene becomes breathtakingly beautiful, like something from a movie. The hotel features seasonal dishes made with fresh local ingredients and natural hot springs, allowing you to relax both mind and body. Inside the hotel, you'll find art and decorations inspired by Sado’s nature and traditions, so even on rainy days or during the colder seasons, you can still enjoy the island’s charm indoors. It’s more than just a place to stay — it’s a resort where you can truly feel the spirit of Sado.

Perched between Sado’s scenic mountains and the deep blue Sea of Japan, ist - Sado is more than just a campsite—it’s a multi-experience outdoor retreat. Here, you can enjoy camping, relax in a sauna, and sip locally brewed Sado craft beer. Open from April to the end of November, ist - Sado welcomes all campers, from beginners looking for a stress-free stay to those who prefer a hassle-free, fully-equipped camping experience. Surrounded by breathtaking nature, watching the sunset here will surely be an unforgettable experience. Just a heads-up—ist - Sado is a bit far from Sado’s main ports, so renting a car is highly recommended. And if you're planning a visit during peak season, be sure to book online early!

Nestled on Niigata’s Sado Island, HOSTEL perch is a stylish accommodation transformed from a 70-year-old traditional inn. Just a direct bus ride from the ferry port, it boasts a convenient location with a bus stop right nearby and the coastline only a 4-minute walk away. The hostel features a full-fledged sauna, a café & bar serving craft beer, and a comfortable coworking space—perfect for both sightseeing and remote work. Plus, the area is packed with local eateries where you can savor Sado’s cuisine while mingling with the friendly locals!