Gold mines, offbeat events, theater and spirited taiko drumming on a former island of exile
Sado Island is well known as the “island of exile” or the “island of gold”, and for being deeply connected with historical figures, tradition and ancient culture. It’s one of the largest Japanese islands, located 32km off the coast of the Niigata Prefecture and even with so much to offer its visitors, it remains to be one of Japan’s best off-the-beaten-path destinations.
Sado's onsen (hot spring) is another attraction, as is the award-winning sake produced from the rice grown on the island. Cycling, camping, and water sports are popular, and you can even pan for gold here. In essence, it’s a recognized Geopark that boasts stunning coastlines, pristine forests, charming villages, majestic mountains, cascading rice paddies, splendid natural wonders, temples and shrines galore, and so much more.
Sado's onsen (hot spring) is another attraction, as is the award-winning sake produced from the rice grown on the island. Cycling, camping, and water sports are popular, and you can even pan for gold here. In essence, it’s a recognized Geopark that boasts stunning coastlines, pristine forests, charming villages, majestic mountains, cascading rice paddies, splendid natural wonders, temples and shrines galore, and so much more.
