What this area is like
The Sado Island Gold Mines are a World Heritage site with mine tunnels to explore. Kodo, the taiko drum group, is based here, and in Ogi you can ride a tub boat.
Plan your visit
Jetfoils and car ferries run from Niigata Port to Ryotsu; buses on the island are infrequent, so consider a rental car.
Choose your next step
Places to see in this area
Sado Gold Mine
Edo-period mine tunnels, part of the Sado Island Gold Mines World Heritage site, with figures showing how miners worked.
- Access
- From Ryotsu Port, Sado Kotsu bus bound for Sado Kinzan (about 60 minutes).
- Hours
- April–October 8:00–17:30; November–March 8:30–17:00. Open daily.
- Fee
- Standard course adults ¥1,500, children ¥750; guided and MR courses cost more.
- Address
- 1305 Shimo-Aikawa, Sado, Niigata
The tunnels stay around 10°C, so bring a layer even in summer.
How to plan your time here
- Jetfoil from Niigata to Ryotsu takes about 1 hour 10 minutes; car ferries about 2 hours 30 minutes.
- Stay at least one night; a rental car makes the gold mine, Ogi’s tub boats and the coast easy.
Information checked 26 October 2026. Plans are JapaLens editorial suggestions, not on-site reviews. Hours and fees can change; check the official page before you go.