Island life in Japan reveals a unique side of Japanese culture.

Sado Island is located off the west coast of Niigata and is one of Japan’s largest Islands. Over the years it has become a melting pot of religions and cultures as exiles from all over the country made it their home, and now offers tourists a fascinating insight into Japan’s rich history. One such tradition is the use of Tarai Bune boats, the shallow bottom small ‘tubs’ that were perfect for fishermen to navigate the small coves of the island and today take tourists on guided tours from Ogi Port.

Come to Sado Island for unique outdoor activities, the exciting and culturally rich festivities of the Earth Celebration, or to explore a deeper side of Japan’s historical legend. The Old Aikawa Detention House is a stark reminder of the Sado’s history of exile, and the Sado Rekishi Densetsukan (Sado History Museum) also provides a wealth of information of the island’s storied past. Visitors to Sado will be rewarded with new and compelling perspectives on all that Japan has to offer – whether traveling for cultural and historical discovery, or simply adventure.