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The representative scenery of Sado Island in Niigata Prefecture is the Ogibune boat. The Ogibune boat was developed during the Meiji era along the rocky shores of Ogi for the collection of sea snails, abalone, and kelp. It is smaller than a small boat, allowing for free and easy maneuverability.
The Ogibune boat is made of cedar and bamboo, measuring 180 cm in length, 140 cm in width, and 55 cm in depth, with an oval shape. The boat is surprisingly stable, making it difficult to capsize even with a female boatman and three adults on board. The speed of the Ogibune boat is approximately 3 kilometers per hour, and a round trip takes about 10 minutes. It is primarily operated by a female boatman, but if you're willing to try, you can also take on the challenge yourself.
The Ogibune boat is still a practical fishing tool used today, and if you're lucky, you might see one in action catching seafood. Additionally, the location where Chihiro rides the wooden boat in the Studio Ghibli film "Spirited Away" is said to be here.
