Onogame, Sado Travel Guide

4.4 (446)

Discover Onogame: Sado Island's iconic monolith with stunning coastal views, vibrant flora, and serene hiking trails. A natural masterpiece.

Onogame is a 167-meter tall monolithic rock formation on Sado Island, Japan, known for its turtle-like shape and stunning coastal views. It's a popular tourist spot offering hiking trails and panoramic scenery, especially when the Tobishima Kanzou flowers bloom in late May to early June.

A brief summary to Onogame

Negai, Sado, Negai, Niigata, 952-3203, JP
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From Eve

Know before you go

Hi, I'm Eve. Here are a few practical things to know before exploring Onogame.

Wear comfortable hiking shoes to fully enjoy the trails around Onogame.
Visit during late May to early June to witness the blooming Tobishima Kanzou flowers.
Bring a camera to capture the stunning coastal views and vibrant sunsets.
Check the bus schedule in advance, as services may not be frequent.

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Explore Onogame on the Map

A handpicked selection of must-see spots near Onogame, mapped for you.

Getting There

Public Transport

From Ryotsu Port, take the Niigata Kotsu Sado Uchikaifu Line bus towards Onogame. The bus ride takes approximately 70 minutes. Alight at the 'Onogame' bus stop, which is a short walk from the site. As of April 1, 2024, advance reservations are required by 5:00 p.m. on the previous day for the "Uchikaifu Line" on Saturdays, Sundays, and holidays. Check the Niigata Kotsu Sado website for the most up-to-date schedules and reservation information. Bus fare is calculated based on distance, with a minimum fare of ¥210.
Car

From Ryotsu Port, drive along Route 45 towards the northern part of Sado Island. Follow the signs for Onogame. The drive takes approximately 50 minutes. Parking is available near Onogame. Parking is free for both standard and large vehicles. Be aware that roads on Sado Island can be narrow with many tunnels.

Discover more about Onogame

Onogame, a majestic monolith on Sado Island's northern coast, stands 167 meters tall, resembling a giant turtle emerging from the sea. This natural wonder, also called Ono Game, has earned two stars in the Michelin Green Guide for its uniquely beautiful scenery.The rock's name, derived from its turtle-like appearance, also connects to the Japanese word 'kami' (god), signifying its sacred presence. A stone lantern at the summit enshrines a dragon god, ensuring sailors' safety. Hiking trails offer accessible exploration with rewarding views. Adventurous hikers can reach the summit in about 15 minutes, enjoying panoramic views of Sado's sea and sky.From late May to early June, Onogame transforms into a golden paradise with the blooming of Tobishima Kanzou flowers. These yellow day lilies create a magical landscape, attracting photographers and nature enthusiasts. The annual Sado Kanzo Festival, held on the second Sunday of June, celebrates this natural spectacle with traditional performances.Beyond its visual appeal, Onogame holds cultural significance with local legends and historical tales. Nearby, Sai-no-Kawara, a cave filled with Jizo statues, provides a serene yet eerie experience, connecting visitors to the island's spiritual side.