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Located in the Sea of Japan, 45 km off of Niigata, Sado island is the perfect destination for its nature and beautiful mountains. But Sado is also known as a cultural and historical destination, where you can discover beautiful sites.
Historical Sites to See in Sado Island
Kitazawa Flotation Plant, and its atypical architecture
Located near Aikawa town, the Kitazawa flotation plant (北沢浮遊選鉱場) has a set of facilities (such as a power plant) that have contributed to the modernization of the mines. In the past, silver and gold were produced in the area, and the flotation plant managed to process over 50,000 tons of mines per month. Now this plant is no longer used and nature has reclaimed some of the structures at the farm.
Myosenji Temple and Its Pagoda
Myosenji temple (妙宣寺), built by a disciple of the Buddhist monk Nirichen, is located near the towns of Mano and Sawata, the former cultural and political capital of Sado Island. This temple has a beautiful Sanmon Gate (山門) and a wooden five-story pagoda, absolutely beautiful! It is the only one in Niigata Prefecture!
Rengebuji Temple and Hydrangeas
Rengebuji temple（蓮華峰寺) was founded by Kukai (Kobo Taishi, who is a founder of Shingon Buddhism) around 806. This temple is one of top 3 temples built as a Shingon holy place of Buddhism, with Kongoji temple in Wakayama and Murouji temple in Nara. The site is magnificent because all the buildings are immersed in dense green forests. I imagine that the hydrangeas that bloom in July give even more beauty to the site!
Sado Official Tourist Infomation
Need more information? You can find up to date information about Sado Island’s history, sightseeing locations, accommodations, food, and transportation here.
Original article by : Estelle
Translated by: Aika Ikeda
