🗺️ Sado Kisen佐渡汽船

Sado Island is known as the largest remote island in the Sea of Japan. It boasts a rich natural environment recognized as the "Sado Geopark," and attractions like the gold mine ruins, which will be registered as a UNESCO World Heritage site in 2024, making it a popular tourist destination with many captivating spots. The main mode of transportation to this island, located just 32 kilometers from the Niigata mainland, is the regular ferry service operated by Sado Kisen. This ferry service began operations in 1913 and celebrated its 110th anniversary in 2023. There are numerous sailings on the main route between Niigata and Ryotsu, utilizing two types of vessels: car ferries and jetfoils. The car ferries, which can carry over 1,500 passengers, feature both second-class and first-class cabins, as well as deluxe cabins and suites that rival those of urban hotels. The jetfoil used on the route from Niigata to Ogi is a vessel that floats on the surface of the sea. It is computer-controlled for navigation, ensuring stability even in rough weather, with speeds reaching up to 80 kilometers per hour. While it travels quickly, its stability is excellent, and the travel time is less than half that of the car ferry. Passengers can choose the type of vessel based on their purpose and budget.

The shipping company connecting Niigata mainland and Sado Island has a history of over a hundred years. There are two routes: Niigata Port to Ryotsu Port and Naoetsu Port to Ogi Port. On the Niigata Port to Ryotsu route, there are two options available: a car ferry with outstanding capacity and a high-speed jetfoil.