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When visiting Sado Island, most tourists rely on the Ryotsu Port Terminal, the starting and ending point of a journey around the island, and a key spot that can make or break the success of your Sado trip. However, it’s not just a ferry and high-speed boat terminal—it’s packed with the charms of the island itself!
From shopping areas featuring Sado’s finest sake and specialties to casual dining spots and hidden ocean-view rest areas, knowing your way around this terminal can significantly enhance your experience.
Facilities may vary depending on the time, especially for those taking the earliest or last ferries, so take note. This article provides a thorough guide from facility use to helpful tips, so you can make the most of Ryotsu Port Terminal and enjoy a smooth journey on Sado Island!
Ryotsu Port Terminal is a ferry terminal in the Ryotsu district of Sado City, Niigata Prefecture. It serves as the main gateway between Sado Island and Niigata’s mainland, catering to tourists and locals alike. Sado Kisen ferries and high-speed boats (jetfoils) operate here, offering transport for cars, motorcycles, and bicycles.
The main floor of Ryotsu Port Terminal is on the 2nd floor. Here, you’ll find the ticket counter, boarding gates for ferries and high-speed boats, and a wide variety of shops and dining options.
The lobby offers waiting areas with benches where you can relax until your ferry departs.
You’ll also find restrooms, a nursing room, and a smoking area in this lobby.
Tickets can be purchased at either the ticket window or vending machines. If you’d like assistance with your tickets, head to the counter; otherwise, the vending machines are a quicker option.
Near the high-speed boat (jetfoil) gate is the information center. If you have any questions about ferry operations or need help purchasing tickets, stop by for assistance.
Next to the car ferry gate is the dining area “Shiosai.”
Image source: Shipboard Restaurants & Terminal Shops | Official Sado Kisen Website
This restaurant features a stand-up style common to Japanese “stand-up soba” places, though there are also counter seats.
The menu includes a variety of options such as ramen, soba, udon, rice bowls, curry, and snacks. Drinks like draft beer and highballs are also available.
Popular choices include ramen, udon, and soba featuring Sado Island seaweed. If you missed out on Sado’s specialties, you can catch up here!
Operating Hours: 11:00 am〜7:30 pm
Next to the car ferry gate is a convenience store.
This shop sells snacks like rice balls and sandwiches, as well as a range of Sado Island souvenirs from sweets and specialties to local sake. It opens early in the morning, so it’s perfect for those arriving at the terminal early.
On the 2nd floor, just outside the lobby, is a shopping street filled with souvenir shops. This is your go-to spot for Sado souvenirs, as a variety of gift stores are lined up here.
From Sado Island’s specialties and sweets to local sake, you’ll find almost everything here. If you’re looking to buy souvenirs at the end of your trip, arrive at the terminal at least an hour early for a relaxed shopping experience.
These shops open at 8:00 am, so plan ahead if you want to visit before the first ferry departs.
If you’re waiting for the ferry and want a quiet place, there’s a hidden spot next to the car ferry gate.
Many people don’t notice, but there’s a passage to the left of the gate that leads to a seating area with tables and chairs, offering an ocean view and plenty of natural light.
The 1st floor of Ryotsu Port Terminal features two eateries, the Sado Kisen rental car counter, a taxi stand, and a bus terminal. You can access it from the 2nd floor by escalator.
Rental Car & Taxi Stand
Bus Terminal
There’s a cozy café here called maSanicoffee that’s perfect for passing time until your ferry departs.
With a stylish interior and comfy sofas, this café serves delicious coffee and opens at 6:30 am, making it a great breakfast option.
Read more about maSanicoffee
The Ryotsu Terminal gift shop street has the largest selection on the island, but it’s not open in time for the first ferry. For travelers exploring Sado by car, it’s a great place to pick up souvenirs before departing.
There are several parking options near Ryotsu Port Terminal, operated by Sado Kisen, Sado City, and even the roadside station.
Parking options range from completely free to time-limited free parking, so choose based on your needs and proximity to Ryotsu Port Terminal.
Check out the parking guide below for details on parking near Ryotsu Port Terminal.
Read more about Ryotsu Port Terminal Parking Options
Ryotsu Port Terminal is the gateway to Sado Island and also the place where your journey ends. It’s here that you first feel the excitement of arriving and the nostalgia when leaving, both watched over by the terminal.
Especially while waiting for the ferry back, enjoying the ocean view with a coffee from maSanicoffee, or selecting some last-minute souvenirs, lets you reflect on the places you’ve visited and the people you’ve met.
Whether it’s a traditional Sado breakfast, local sake, or fresh seafood, Ryotsu Port Terminal is a place to savor the island’s charms.
To make the most of this terminal as the start and end of your journey, arrive early to avoid missing out on everything it offers. Follow the latest updates on Sado Kisen’s website or social media, as ferry schedules can change due to weather.
May your trip to Sado Island be filled with wonderful memories.
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