Experience the Traditional Culture of Sado in the Historic Kanazawaya Ryokan, a Former Red-Light District Landmark

We are pleased to offer a special day-trip program where you can immerse yourself in the unique traditional culture of Sado, held at Kanazawaya Ryokan—a historical building in Sado City that once flourished as part of a red-light district. This exclusive experience includes performances and hands-on activities featuring Sado’s traditional folk songs and Ozashiki dance, a viewing and puppet operation workshop of the locally beloved “Noroma Ningyō” puppet show in the Sado dialect, and a tea ceremony hosted by the inn’s iconic proprietress.

You'll enjoy a special moment where Sado's performing arts, local dialect, and heartfelt hospitality all come together. Guests are also invited to explore the building’s scenic surroundings overlooking Lake Kamo and view the collection of antique artworks displayed throughout the ryokan.

Plan A: Saturday, November 8 – Sado Folk Song and Ozashiki  Experience

This program features performances by Sanae Toki, a local dancer from Sado, who will showcase folk songs passed down across the island, including "Sado Okesa," "Aikawa Ondo," and "Ryotsu Jinku." Through these songs and dances—each rooted in the lifestyles and natural features of different regions—you’ll gain a deep appreciation for the diverse culture of Sado and the stories of its people.

The venue, Kanazawaya Ryokan, is a former red-light district establishment steeped in history. Alongside the performances, enjoy a traditional tea service hosted by the ryokan’s renowned proprietress, offering you a warm and welcoming taste of Sado's unique omotenashi (hospitality).

■ Schedule on the Day

18:00 – Meet at Kanazawaya Ryokan / Guided tour of the building

(Introduction to the site's historical and architectural highlights)

18:30 – Sado Folk Song Performance & Commentary

・Sado Okesa (Ryotsu area)

・Aikawa Ondo (Aikawa gold mine town culture)

・Ryotsu Jinku (background and lyrics)

...and more

Each piece will be introduced with historical and cultural context, followed by live performance.

19:40 – Hospitality by the Proprietress:

Matcha (green tea) and Japanese sweets served, followed by storytelling time

20:00 – Program ends / Dismissal

 

■ Performer

Sanae Toki – Dancer from Sado City

Certified instructor of the Kotobuki-ryu school of Japanese dance

Licensed Sado Okesa teacher

 

■ Participation Fee (Tax included)

・Standard Plan: ¥5,000 per person(Includes matcha, participation fee, and insurance)

・Plan with Interpreter Guide: ¥15,000 per person(Includes matcha, participation fee, and insurance)

 

Note: Meals are not provided. Please bring your own food if needed.

 

■ Reservations & Participation Requirements

・Advance reservation required (at least 3 days before the event)

・Minimum participants: 2 people

・Maximum capacity: approx. 10 people

 

Plan B: Sunday, November 9 – Noroma Ningyō Puppet Show Experience Program

The “Noroma Ningyō” puppet theater, a traditional performing art passed down in Sado, features simple handmade puppets and storytelling in the Sado dialect. These heartfelt plays are filled with humor, local flavor, and life lessons, offering a warm portrayal of human nature and community spirit.
In this program, you'll not only watch a live performance of the Noroma Ningyō, but also have the rare opportunity to try operating the puppets yourself under expert guidance.
The venue is the historic Kanazawaya Ryokan, a former red-light district building rich with cultural heritage. After the show, enjoy matcha green tea served by the ryokan’s iconic proprietress, and experience the unique hospitality that Sado is known for.

■ Schedule on the Day

18:00 – Meet at Kanazawaya Ryokan / Guided tour of the building

(Introduction to the history and architectural highlights of this former red-light district structure)

18:30 – Noroma Ningyō Puppet Show & Commentary

・The performance title will be revealed on the day

・Try your hand at operating the puppets

・Brief introduction to the Sado dialect and its role in the show

19:40 – Hospitality by the Proprietress:

Matcha (green tea) and traditional Japanese sweets served, followed by a storytelling session

20:00 – Program ends / Dismissal

 

■ Performer

Shinseiza – Traditional puppet theater troupe based in Sado

 

■ Participation Fee (Tax included)

・Standard Plan: ¥5,000 per person

(Includes matcha, puppet experience, and insurance)

・Plan with Interpreter Guide: ¥15,000 per person

(Includes matcha, puppet experience, and insurance)

Note: Meals are not provided. Please bring your own food if needed.

 

■ Reservations & Participation Requirements

・Advance reservation required (at least 3 days in advance)

・Minimum participants: 2 people

・Maximum capacity: approx. 10 people

How to Join Each Program (Now Accepting Reservations)

 

Reservations

・By Phone: 050-3317-0734 (Available 10:00–17:00)

・By Email:

Please write "Kanazawaya Ryokan Experience Reservation" in the subject line.

In the body of the email, include the following information:

・Desired program

・Your name

・Number of participants

・Contact information

・Your place of residence

・Any questions or comments

 

Tickets

・Available at: TAACHI (53-1 Iri, Ryotsu, Sado City)

・E-tickets: Coming soon