Ryōtsu 両津

Published on : 16/03/2018
by : I.D.O.

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Welcome to Sado

Ryôtsu connects the city of Niigata to the east coast of Sado Island (Sadogashima) in an hour by airboat or two and a half hours by ferry. Previously the largest and busiest town on the island, Ryōtsu is now an integral part of Sado town. Discover this remote corner of Japan whose scenic beauty, cultural richness and deliciously old-fashioned side make it an exceptional destination.

Ryôtsu is the main gateway to Sado Island and is a good starting point for visiting the island. It is from there that the buses leave (although few in number and at limited times) or that you can rent a car to explore the city. The Ebisu district is the most lively place, you will find many restaurants and cheap hotels there. The traditional ryokan and more luxurious hotels are found on the edge of Lake Kamo-ko.

Kamo Lake

This lake was originally a freshwater lake but today it contains seawater since the construction of a canal in 1903. Oyster farming is practiced there. Its eastern shore is home to Shiizaki Park from where you will have a beautiful view of the lake, with Mount Kimpoku reflected in its waters.

To read: The island of Sado

Around Ryotsu

Mount Donden

With its 900 meters in height , Mount Donden is one of the most popular hiking destinations on the island. From its summit, you have a splendid view of Ryôtsu Bay, Lake Kamo and the surrounding rice fields, but also, weather permitting, of the main island of Honshu. In summer, the summit is covered with wild flowers and it is possible to camp there.

Practical information: The mount is a 20-minute drive from Ryotsu, at the entrance to the hiking trail.

Toki-no-mori Koen

It is a park dedicated to the Japanese crested ibis ( toki) , the symbol bird of Sado . The Japanese ibis had completely disappeared from the island in 2003, but species from China have been reintroduced and since 2008 they have been flying freely in the skies of Sado. The park is home to the “ Sado Japanese Crested Ibis Conservation Center ” and the “ Toki Exhibition Hall ” where you can learn all about these rare birds and the conservation efforts being made in Sadogashima.

Practical information: The park is located about 20 minutes by bus from Ryôtsu. It is open daily from 8:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. from March to November. It is closed on Mondays (non-holidays) from December to February.

Un groupe de toki, oiseaux de Sadogashima — A group of toki, birds of Sadogashima
Hechima-chan

Ryotsu Onsen

Ryôtsu Onsen includes two hot spring resorts . The seaside resort of Sumiyoshi is also a seaside resort. Its spring waters are particularly recommended against neuralgia, rheumatism and fatigue. Shiizaki station in Suwa Park is more recent. It offers a nice view of Lake Kamo and the mountains.

Practical information: Sumiyoshi Onsen and Shiizaki Onsen are located 15 and 10 minutes by bus from Ryôtsu.

Not to be missed: Ryôtsu Ebisu matsuri

Every year on June 15 and 16, the Ryotsu Ebisu matsuri festival is held at the Suwa Shinto shrine which houses the deity of the Ebisu district. During these two days, you can watch performances of Ondeko , the local name for oni-daiko, the dance of the drums of the devil, especially performed by children on the second day of the festival. This particular drum show in Sado has been passed down from generation to generation for more than 500 years. Lion dance ( Shihimai ), mikoshi parade (portable shrine) , Otomemai ("girls' dance"), concerts and performances of Ryôtsu Jinku (Ryôtsu folk dances and songs) allow you to appreciate the local culture.

Also discover: Sadogashima Earth Festival