Understand

Once a remote land of exile for political dissidents, including even a dethroned monarch and a Buddhist monk, Sado has a dramatic history. Yet today, it offers a delightful summer getaway with its rocky coasts, verdant hills, and charming fishing ports. Despite its intriguing past, this idyllic island is home to just over 60,000 permanent residents. Shaped like an anvil, the largest town, Rytsu, rests in the eastern gap, while Ogi graces the southern coast. In the north lies Aikawa, the former gold-mining town that witnessed a boom during the Edo era. The island's mountainous geography, filled with the Sado and Ko-sado mountain ranges, creates a breathtaking natural backdrop. The central plain, known as Kuninaka, flourishes with vibrant rice fields and a more thriving population. While Sado has been inhabited for centuries, a significant portion of the island remains untouched and uninhabited, especially beyond the central plain. Winter brings its challenges, with heavy snow making road access to the northeastern part of the island difficult. However, the island's remoteness and its captivating landscapes make it a fascinating destination. It offers a glimpse into the traditional and rural Japan that many travelers long to experience.

Map & Climate

Popular Foods

Sushi: Sushi is a traditional Japanese dish consisting of vinegared rice served with various toppings, typically fish or seafood. The rice is usually accompanied by a small piece of nori (seaweed) and sometimes features a dab of wasabi, pickled ginger, or soy sauce. There are many variations, including nigiri (hand-pressed sushi), maki (rolled sushi), and sashimi (slices of raw fish).

Ramen: Ramen is a widely popular soup dish in Japan that includes Chinese-style wheat noodles served in a meat or fish-based broth. It is often garnished with ingredients such as pork, dried seaweed, menma (fermented soybean paste), scallions, and miso paste. The dish can be found in various styles, including tonkotsu (pork bone broth), shoyu (soy sauce broth), and miso.

Tempura: Tempura is a deep-fried dish where seafood, vegetables, or mushrooms are battered and then cooked in hot oil. The light, crispy batter turns golden brown and creates a contrast with the soft textures of the ingredients inside. Traditional tempura elements include shrimp, sweet potato, pumpkin, spinach, and green beans. It is typically served with a dipping sauce made from soy sauce, Mirin, and dashi.

Historical Appearance

Traditional Male Clothing

Traditional Female Clothing