What to know
During the Edo Period, Sado Island was Japan's top producer of gold and silver. Because of its strategic importance, the Tokugawa Shogunate controlled the island directly.
The Sado Magistrate's Office (Sado Bugyōsho) was the island's administrative hub, housing both government offices and gold production facilities. A magistrate appointed by the shogun oversaw the mines, public administration, and judicial matters.
The buildings of the Sado Bugyosho were repeatedly destroyed by fire and rebuilt. Most recently, several structures—including the government offices, the magistrate's residence, a refinery, and a storage facility—were fully reconstructed and opened to the public in 2000, marking the 400th anniversary of the gold mine.
The Sado Bugyosho is located in Aikawa Town on the northwestern coast of the island. From Ryotsu Port, it is about a 45-minute drive via Sawata. Alternatively, take the Main Line bus from Ryotsu to Aikawa (one hour, 860 yen, 1-2 buses per hour).
How to get to and around Sado Island
Visitor information
Practical details to check before planning this stop.
- Hours
- 8:30 to 17:00 (entry until 16:30)
- Closed
- December 29 to January 3
- Admission
- 500 yen (~$3.2)
- English name
- Original name
- Sado Bugyosho
Verify details before visiting. Currency conversion is indicative and may vary over time.