Niigata's Sado Island has firmly landed on the global travel radar in recent years, in big part thanks to the UNESCO World Heritage listing of the island's historic gold mines in 2024. This global recognition is continuing in 2025, with the addition of NIPPONIA Sado Aikawa Kanayamacho on TIME magazine’s “World’s Greatest Places” list. Highlighted in the coveted Places to Stay category, this boutique accommodation spot blends history, sustainability, and immersive local experiences.
Located in Aikawa, a town with a rich 400-year history shaped by gold mining, the inn breathes new life into its historic streetscape. Rather than treating the area as a static tourist spot, NIPPONIA has transformed it into a “town hotel," a concept that seamlessly connects visitors with local restaurants, artisans, and cultural landmarks. Guests aren’t seen as just passing through—they’re invited to immerse themselves in Sado Island’s unique heritage, vibrant community, and natural surroundings.
TIME magazine praised the inn’s commitment to sustainable tourism and thoughtful collaboration with the local community. This accolade is part of a broader effort by the Sado Tourism Exchange Organization and other regional stakeholders to position Sado Island as a leading destination for high-quality, meaningful travel.
Excitingly, NIPPONIA Sado Aikawa Kanayamacho is set to expand its offerings in May 2025. The former office of Oyamazumi Shrine, originally built in 1605 to pray for the prosperity of the island’s mines, is being transformed into additional guest rooms—further enriching the historical charm of a stay here.
With its blend of cultural immersion, historic preservation, and sustainable tourism, it’s not a surprise that this Sado Island gem has earned worldwide attention. For travelers seeking something beyond the ordinary, NIPPONIA Sado Aikawa Kanayamacho offers an unforgettable window into Japan’s living history.
For more information or to make a booking, please visit the official website.
