Sado is an island in the Sea of Japan, off the shores of Niigata Prefecture. Readily accessible by Jetfoil or ferry. We boarded the slower 2 hour ferry, the less expensive and quite relaxing route. We did upgrade to First Class, round trip for 2 was ¥15,880 = USD$109/2.
The ship had a fully loaded snack bar and limited restaurant facility. We brown bagged our own picnic from home and had the entire cabin to ourselves.
We easily picked up our Toyota Rent-a-Car upon landing, and reveled in the drive through small townships and gorgeous emerald Rice Paddies at every turn. Lunch at a restaurant without an English name, thanks to the hotel concierage for making the reservation for the restaurant and the car rental for us.
A large pool with Flounder, Abalone, Bivalves and more greeted us upon entry. Tatami floor seating only. Woe is me.
The seafood was fresh. Very fresh, and very Affordable.
Rustic presentation. No fancy cuts or butane torches were used for this meal.
- KaisenDon Jyo (Premium): ¥2,600, USD$17.96
- KaisenDon Nami (Standard): ¥1,800, USD$12.43
Two bowls overflowing with Fresh Fish, Bivalves, Ikura, Crustaceans…++ No listings of seafood readily available, we just eagerly enjoyed.
Some Miso Soup and adult beverages made for a perfect meal and experience.
The restaurant was packed when we arrived a bit before 1pm, but most of the other patrons had finished and returned to work by the time we finished. Great view of Niigata across the water.
The restaurant is part of a Ryokan, the nightly rates available as low as ¥11,000. The staff was cordial and hospitable.
Comfortably fed, we hopped in our rod to explore this lovely island.
