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This route connects Niigata Port and Sado Island’s Ryotsu Port. The ferries “Tokiwamaru” and “Okesamaru” operate on this route by Sado Kisen.
In this article, we will introduce the onboard facilities of Tokiwamaru, along with recommendations on how to spend your time and what spots to check out during the ferry ride.
For details on Okesamaru, see the link below.
Read more about Okesamaru
Tokiwamaru is a car ferry that operates between Niigata and Sado Island, connecting Niigata Port and Ryotsu Port. The one-way trip takes 2 hours and 30 minutes. The ferry is operated by Sado Kisen.
| Item | Details |
|---|---|
| Maximum Passenger Capacity | 1,461 people |
| Vehicle Loading Capacity | 28 large buses or 168 cars |
| Gross Tonnage | 5,380 tons |
| Cruising Speed | 19.1 knots |
| Length | 125 meters |
| Width | 21.8 meters |
| Main Engine Type | Diesel |
| Date of Construction | March 2014 |
The car ferries running between Niigata Port and Ryotsu Port are Tokiwamaru and another ferry, ”Okesamaru.” Compared to Okesamaru, which was built in 1993, Tokiwamaru is a newer ferry, constructed in 2014.
Tokiwamaru has five decks. The first deck is the vehicle deck, and passengers can stay on decks 3 through 5. Decks 3 and 4 are mainly for public areas, while deck 5 serves as an observation lounge.
Tokiwamaru Deck Layout [PDF] - Sado Kisen
Upon boarding from the Sado Kisen Terminal, you’ll arrive at the entrance hall on deck 3. Unlike Okesamaru, Tokiwamaru’s entrance hall is not open-air but is designed with practicality in mind.
The entrance hall is the central hub of Tokiwamaru. All common facilities, such as the dining area and decks, are located around this hall, making it easy to navigate the ferry once you’re aboard.
The second-class cabin is located on decks 3 or 4.
The second-class cabin is a large room with carpeted floors. Like Okesamaru, there are no partitions, so passengers share open spaces. Compared to Okesamaru, Tokiwamaru’s second-class cabins are spread out in different areas.
Second-class cabin on deck 4
Second-class cabin on deck 3
The first-class cabin is located on decks 4 and 5. Especially on deck 5, you’ll find reclining chairs that offer a comfortable and luxurious ferry experience. The spacious seating arrangements ensure privacy and relaxation.
There are also televisions in the cabin, so you can stay entertained during the journey.
At the rear of decks 3 and 4, there is an event plaza. It’s an open area where food and drinks are allowed. You can spend time here instead of the cabin, as it’s a communal space.
If you’re traveling with pets, Tokiwamaru offers a pet corner on the event plaza on deck 4. Here, you can let your pet out of its cage and spend time together (please keep your pet on a leash).
The smoking area is also located on deck 4, in the event plaza.
The dining area is located on deck 3.
The menu selection is similar to Okesamaru, with ramen and the famous Sado Island Curry being popular items. Meals are purchased through a ticket vending machine.
Light snacks and sweets are also available for purchase, making it convenient for those craving a quick bite.
If you’re planning to eat on board, we recommend the Sado Island Curry, a specialty of Sado Kisen. The rice is shaped like Sado Island, making for a delightful and visually fun meal.
Deck 5 features an observation lounge.
The lounge is spacious and comfortable, located at the front of the ferry, providing a great view.
A ship’s wheel is displayed, allowing you to imagine steering the ferry while sailing. Full speed ahead!
If you’re taking Tokiwamaru, we highly recommend the table seating on deck 4, located along the sides of the second-class cabin.
Sitting here, you can enjoy breathtaking views of the Sea of Japan while sailing, making it the most recommended spot on the ferry.
Enjoy the luxury of a comfortable seat with air conditioning while gazing at the beautiful scenery. As a communal area, anyone can use it.
At the rear of Tokiwamaru, there’s an open deck. The rear deck on deck 5 is especially spacious and offers a great sense of freedom since it’s on the roof.
Feel the vastness of the sky embracing you—this is the true pleasure of a ferry ride. Seagulls often fly alongside the ship.
If the weather is clear, you’ll have a spectacular view of the Sea of Japan. The endless blue ocean and refreshing breeze will leave you feeling rejuvenated.
Both Okesamaru and Tokiwamaru, which operate between Niigata and Sado Island, offer a unique activity: playing with seagulls!
Head to the dining area to purchase the snack “Kappa Ebisen,” and you can feed the seagulls from the deck, attracting a crowd of seagulls to play with.
The best spot to enjoy this is the side deck on deck 3. The seagulls seem to prefer flying alongside the side deck rather than the rear deck, making it easier for them to approach.
The seagulls seem to know they’re going to be fed, as they line up patiently, waiting for their treats.
The “Kappa Ebisen” is available for purchase at the dining area.
The first deck serves as the vehicle deck, where passengers traveling with cars can store their vehicles.
The only way to reach Sado Island is by ferry from Niigata. Make the most of your time on board Tokiwamaru for a pleasant and enjoyable journey by following some key tips.
How you spend the 2.5 hours is up to you. Rest in the cabins, enjoy the beautiful scenery, or have fun playing with the seagulls.
Since it’s a ferry ride, make sure to enjoy the experiences unique to Sado Kisen and the Niigata-Sado route.
Whether heading to Sado Island or returning to Niigata, may your ferry journey add a colorful chapter to your Sado trip.
