Japan on the beach side: Sadogashima 佐渡島
280 kilometers of splendid coastline
A priori, the island of Sado ( Sadogashima in Japanese) located in the northwest of Japan, off the coast of the prefecture of Niigata, does not evoke seaside pleasures. Be aware, however, that if you visit the island in summer, you can enjoy summer heat and especially its crystal clear waters traversed by warm currents, its magnificent almost deserted beaches and its lovely coves.
We offer a beach tour from the small port town of Ogi in the southwest of the island up the west coast and then back down south via the east coast. A road circles the island along its beautiful shores. Officially, like everywhere else in the archipelago, only supervised beaches are open for swimming. But nothing (nor anyone!) prevents you from slipping with delight into the clear waters of this paradise island.
Happiness lies in the west
Ogi is famous for its stunning rugged coastline . There is no fine sandy beach but coves or small rocky beaches where it is good to cool off. Very close to Ogi, it is possible to go diving or kayaking in the Kotoura caves , in particular that of Ryuodo nicknamed "The blue cave of Sado", bathed by emerald waters which sparkle in the sun. Going up to the west, after passing Cape Sawazaki , which offers a splendid view of the coast, 4 kilometers of white sand form the longest beach in Sado: Sobama. Free toilets and camping ground are located on the beach. After Sobama, the beaches of Karutopia (sometimes spelled Cultopia ) and Tsubakio prolong the pleasures of water.
In Mano Bay , Shinmachi and Sawata beaches are popular with summer visitors for their calm, shallow waters, making them ideal spots for family swimming. Paid showers are installed on the beach. Sawata Beach is close to restaurants, hotels and the Kubota Free Campground, sheltered in a small pine wood. In the town of Sawata is the school and the dive shop Dive Shop & School which offers diving courses for all levels.
- See also: Diving in Japan
Beyond Mano Bay, the magnificently steep coast of Nanaura offers itself to the amazed eyes of travellers. The more adventurous will certainly find a small corner between the rocks where to take a dip. The water is crystal clear everywhere and so tempting... Onsen (hot springs) also line the road.
Further north, Tassha beach stretches along the village of the same name. A small rocky cavity in the sea is a delight for explorers. From Tassha extends the splendid bay of Senkaku with its steep coast formed by five small bays bordered by cliffs. You can visit them by boat or better, by glass bottom boat to admire the aquatic fauna. Just at the end of the bay, the crystal clear waters of the pebbly Nyuzaki Beach , about 1 kilometer long, are perfect for snorkeling, fishing or just admiring the scenery. A free campsite is available to visitors.
Tassha Beach, Sadogashima
IoT
Just after, the coast of Sotokaifu also commands admiration. The beaches located at the bottom of the cliffs are difficult to access, if not impossible, but the landscape is sufficient in itself. And then, swimming is never far away. Just at the extreme north of the island, the two rocks of Futatsugame , whose name means "the two turtles" because of their rounded shape evoking this animal, shelter a pretty beach with ultra-clear waters in a dream setting. Futatsugame Beach was chosen as one of Japan's Top 100 Beaches for Swimming and was awarded 2 stars by the Michelin Green Guide. Here too there is a camping ground.
Nyuzaki Beach, Sadogashima
IoT
And also in the East
Past Cape Hajikizaki, at the extreme north of the island, stretches the east coast. Less suitable for swimming, it is no less picturesque and the coastal road runs along quiet villages and small fishing ports with old-fashioned charm. You have to go down to Hirasawa or Sumiyoshi, in Ryotsu Bay , to find equipped beaches.
Further south, Maehama Bay charms the view with its rocky coastline. There are pretty little beaches in a picturesque setting. The pebble beach of Suizu in the Akagame Kazashima Nagisa park is dominated by the two huge rocks "Kazashima Benten" and "Akagameiwa ("the rock of the red turtle") and is a delight for snorkeling enthusiasts. a camping ground.
To the south, Matsugasaki and Tada then Mushiroba are small quiet beaches on the edge of villages. Jogahama , on the other hand, is a 150 meter wide white sandbar with crystal clear waters. Right next door, the "Sunrise Jogahama" hotel opens its thermal baths to visitors.
- To go further: The island of Sado
Address, timetable & access
Address
Timetable
Ryotsu port is connected to Niigata port by ferries (2h30) or hydrofoil (1h). The port of Ogi is connected to that of Naoetsu (near the city of Niigata) by the Sado Kisen ferries (except from November to February). One to three ferries per day, 2h30 journey.
