Japan

Icons of Sado Island

Immerse yourself in the cultural icons of Sado Island.

4 hours | Sado Island

Highlights:

• Learn to play the ‘Taiko’, a traditional drum native to Japan.
• Visit the picturesque Shukunegi Fishing Village.
• Ride in a traditional tub boat known locally as a Tarai Bune.

What to Expect:

Depart for the Sado Island Taiko Centre (Tatakokan) to learn to play the ‘Taiko’. It’s loud, it’s powerful and it’s super fun – plus no prior experience is needed. Taiko is a sacred practice introduced to Japan from China during the Yamato period during the fifth and sixth centuries, and a great way to experience the local culture first hand. Continue to the Chojaga Bridge for a quick photo opportunity before reaching Shukunegi Village. Developed in the 17th century, this picturesque fishing village was home to shipbuilders who built their houses using shipbuilding styles & techniques, affording them a rather unique look. The area has been preserved and strolling the narrow alleys gives a feeling of nostalgia. Leaving the time-capsuled village, depart for a ride in a traditional vessel called a Tarai Bune. Originating in the Meiji Period for fishing shellfish, these tub boats are better suited for the rocky waters of the heavily indented coastline. You may even have an opportunity to try your hand at piloting this unique vessel.

Artisanal Niigata

Gain a greater understanding of the traditional skills of Niigata.

7 hours | Niigata

Highlights:

• Learn the age-old techniques behind Japanese metalwork.
• Go behind-the-scenes of a Japanese knife factory.
• Discover the traditional process behind making sake.

What to Expect:

Famous for its metalcrafts, the Tsubame-Sanjo area was developed during the Edo Period for producing Wakugi (Japanese nail). Following a scenic drive from the port, visit local artisans and learn about time-honoured metalwork skills passed from generation to generation. Leave with a greater understanding and appreciation of the history of the tradition and artisanal skills, before heading to the Tojiro Open Factory, best known for its knife manufacturing. During the visit to this open factory, discover the history and techniques of Tojiro and further understand why Japanese knives are world-renowned. After lunch, make your way to a local sake brewery. Niigata Prefecture is home to more than 90 sake breweries and is famous for its high quality, making it the ideal place to not only learn the process of sake making but also how to pair sake with different foods. Taste a wide variety of fresh sake and purchase your favourite, if you so desire, before transferring back to the port.