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Niigata and Sado Island. These two areas, facing the Sea of Japan, are connected by their rich natural beauty and deep history. The bridge between them is the Niigata Port Sado Kisen Ferry Terminal. From here, many travelers embark on their journey to Sado.
However, before starting this new adventure, you first need to reach the ferry terminal from your departure point. Knowing how to get to the Sado Kisen Ferry Terminal from Niigata Station or Niigata Airport is the first step to a smooth trip.
This article will provide a detailed guide on how to reach the Sado Kisen Ferry Terminal from Niigata Station, the gateway to Niigata, and Niigata Airport, the door to your Sado Island adventure. Whether by bus, taxi, or walking, find the best option for your travel style.
There are three public transportation options to reach the Sado Kisen Terminal from Niigata Station.
| Mode of Transportation | Duration | Cost | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Bus | Approx. 15 mins | 260 yen | Most efficient |
| Taxi | Approx. 10 mins | 1,000–1,500 yen | Fastest |
| Walking | 30–40 mins | Free | Cheapest, with a chance to stop by Bandai Bridge |
The most efficient way to get from Niigata Station to Niigata Port Sado Kisen Terminal is by bus. It’s affordable and quick.
Niigata Kotsu’s Sado Kisen Line will get you there in about 15 minutes for 260 yen.
The Sado Kisen Line departs from platform 17 at Niigata Station Bus Terminal, located under the elevated tracks at Niigata Station.
Niigata Station Bus Terminal Map [PDF]
Both cash and IC cards are accepted for payment. Buses depart every 10 to 15 minutes, making it a convenient option.
Sado Kisen Line Bus Timetable from Niigata Station
You can board either the Pier Bandai or Sado Kisen bus, both of which stop at the Sado Kisen Terminal.
The bus stop is called “Sado Kisen,” and it stops right in front of the entrance to the Niigata Port Sado Kisen Terminal.
While the bus stops at several stations, a taxi will take you straight to your destination without any stops, saving you time.
A taxi ride from Niigata Station to the Sado Kisen Terminal takes about 10 minutes and costs between 1,000 and 1,500 yen.
You can also walk from Niigata Station to the Sado Kisen Terminal. The distance is 2.4 km, and it takes about 30 to 40 minutes.
The route is mostly flat and paved, making it easy to walk. If you want to see the Bandai Bridge, a tourist spot in Niigata, you might enjoy walking. However, it could be tough with heavy luggage or in the heat of summer.
To get to the Sado Kisen Terminal from Niigata Airport, take the Sado Kisen Liner (Mini Liner), a direct bus service that connects Niigata Airport and the Sado Kisen Terminal.
Source: Sado Kisen Liner | Niigata Airport
It takes about 25 minutes and costs 700 yen. The bus stop is located right outside the domestic arrivals area.
Source: Sado Kisen Liner | Niigata Airport
To summarize the key features of each transportation option:
Choose the best option based on your schedule and preferences.
Once you arrive at the Sado Kisen Ferry Terminal, make sure to allow enough time for boarding procedures. Especially during peak seasons, it’s best to arrive at least an hour before departure. Even if you’re short on time, be sure to complete the boarding process no later than 30 minutes before the ferry departs.
Keep in mind that ferries won’t wait if public transportation is delayed, and missing a ferry can significantly disrupt your travel plans since only a few ferries run per day. Be sure to choose reliable transportation and give yourself plenty of time.
For information on the facilities at Niigata Port Sado Kisen Terminal, including how to spend your time while waiting to board, refer to the guide below.
Read more about Niigata Port Sado Kisen Terminal
We hope your trip to Sado Island is a memorable one!
Sado Island: The stunning view of Onogame and Tobishima Kanzō
