Sawane Preschool
Acceptable age range
| Start date | Date of birth |
|---|---|
| Apr 2026 – Mar 2027 | 2020/4/2〜2023/4/1 |
| Apr 2027 – Mar 2028 | 2021/4/2〜2024/4/1 |
- Rich sensibility shaped by nature and tradition
- World Heritage island where culture and nature live in harmony
Testimonials and Voice of Families
Learning Through Nature: From Hong Kong to Sado Island, a Journey Full of Life Lessons
I took my elementary school daughter with me for a preschool exchange program. We fully enjoyed a week of living on the island we had always dreamed of.
Access
Take the train to Tokyo Station, then board the Joetsu Shinkansen to Niigata Station (approximately 2–2.5 hours).
From Niigata Airport (KIJ), take a shuttle bus to Niigata Station (approximately 25 minutes). From Niigata Station, take a bus or taxi to Niigata Port (approximately 15 minutes). Board a Jetfoil (60 minutes) or Car Ferry (150 minutes) to Ryotsu Port on Sado Island. The Preschool is an approximately 40-minute drive or bus ride from Ryotsu Port.
From Tokyo Station, take the Joetsu Shinkansen to Niigata Station (approximately 2 hours). From Niigata Station, take a local bus or taxi to Niigata Port (approximately 15 minutes). Board a Jetfoil (60 minutes) or Car Ferry (150 minutes) to Ryotsu Port on Sado Island. The Preschool is an approximately 40-minute drive or bus ride from Ryotsu Port.
Take a bus or taxi to Niigata Port (approximately 15 minutes). Board a Jetfoil (60 minutes) or Car Ferry (150 minutes) to Ryotsu Port on Sado Island. The Preschool is an approximately 40-minute drive or bus ride from Ryotsu Port.
Features of the Preschool
Situated between lush mountains and the sea, this facility uses the island's abundant landscape as an everyday playground. Students enjoy refreshing walks to the nearby beach to collect shells and observe marine life. Through these seaside adventures and joyful mud play, young learners deeply connect with nature.
Children at this preschool design their own daily routines, deciding each morning whether to explore outdoors or create indoors. This flexible approach nurtures their decision-making skills and allows genuine passions to organically blossom.
Engaging directly with local farmers and dedicated chefs, kids experience the entire journey of their meals from soil to plate. This hands-on food education fosters a deep appreciation for nature's bounty and the vital importance of nutrition.
The program intentionally removes age barriers, encouraging toddlers and older kids to seamlessly mingle and collaborate. Young learners develop profound empathy and social adaptability as they naturally teach and learn from one another throughout the day.
A Day of the Children
Enjoy Sado's fresh air in the spacious playground
Starting the day by asking, "What will we do?"
Creating original toys from natural materials found outside
Climbing trees is a favorite everyday activity
Enjoying indoor creative play with wooden Kapla blocks
Greeting friendly neighborhood grandmas
Accommodation
Le Bleu Sado Sawane
2
min8
minAccommodation Type
Whole building rental
Capacity
5 people
Kitchen
Private Kitchen
Bedroom
Bed, Futon
Bathroom
Bathtub Available
Laundry
Washing Machine
Features
Coworking Space, Walkable to Preschool, Within 15-Min Drive to Preschool
Work Environment
Wi-Fi Available / Separate Workspace for Couples Available / Coworking Space Available
Kajimachi House
7
minAccommodation Type
Whole building rental
Capacity
5 people
Kitchen
Private Kitchen
Bedroom
Futon
Bathroom
Bathtub Available
Laundry
Washing Machine
Features
Baby-Friendly, Within 15-Min Drive to Preschool
Work Environment
Wi-Fi Available / Separate Workspace for Couples Available / Coworking Space Available
Sado Furyu nagomi C
4
minNo floor plan available
Accommodation Type
Whole building rental
Capacity
6 people
Kitchen
Private Kitchen
Bedroom
Bed
Bathroom
Shower Booth Only
Laundry
-
Features
Walkable to Preschool, Within 15-Min Drive to Preschool
Work Environment
Wi-Fi Available / Separate Workspace for Couples Available / Coworking Space Available
Destination
1402-1 SAWANE-IKARI, SADO CITY, NIIGATA, NIIGATA
Toki Forest Park
Sado is the only place in Japan where the protected crested ibis (Toki) lives. Families can safely observe these beautiful, rare birds up close and learn about local conservation efforts.
Official SiteTarai Bune (Tub Boat) Rides at Ogi Port
Enjoy a peaceful ride in a traditional wooden tub boat on crystal-clear waters. It is a unique, deeply cultural experience that children and parents will remember forever.
Official SiteKitazawa Flotation Plant Ruins
Often called the "Machu Picchu of the East," these grand industrial ruins were once used to process ore from the Sado Gold Mine. The contrast between the weathered concrete structures and the reclaiming greenery creates a mystical, breathtaking landscape.
Official SiteSado’s Pristine Night Sky
Sado is a sanctuary for stargazing, thanks to its pristine nature and minimal light pollution. From coastal shores to quiet mountains, the Milky Way and shooting stars are often visible to the naked eye.
Fresh Sado Sushi
Savor top-tier sushi featuring seasonal catches from Sado’s pristine coastal waters. Each piece is masterfully crafted by skilled chefs to showcase the island's authentic flavors. It is the perfect destination for families to experience the true taste of Sado.
Official SiteMarine activities
Sado Island’s crystal-clear waters are the perfect stage for popular activities like SUP and sea kayaking. From calm, gentle bays to dramatic coastlines, the island offers diverse courses that showcase its stunning natural beauty.
Official SiteSado’s Natural Hot Springs (Onsen)
With around 25 hot spring spots scattered across the island, families can discover unique baths nestled in the mountains or overlooking the sea. Many of these day-trip onsens are paired with delicious local cuisine, providing a soul-soothing experience.
Official SiteSado Gold Mine (Sado Kinzan)
As a site designated for World Cultural Heritage, this historic mine offers an immersive look into Japan’s Edo period. Families can walk through well-preserved tunnels and see animatronic displays that bring history to life.
Official SiteSample Itinerary
【The Adventure & Wildlife Course】Start your weekend with a sea kayaking or SUP session in Sado’s crystal-clear bays, where even small children can feel the rhythm of the ocean. In the afternoon, visit Toki Forest Park to see the rare Crested Ibis up close, followed by a sunset walk along the coast. It’s a perfect mix of physical activity and heartwarming encounters with nature.
【The Living History & Heritage Course】Step back in time and explore Sado’s rich cultural legacy. Begin with an underground adventure at the Sado Gold Mine, where the cool tunnels feel like a hidden fortress. For lunch, enjoy local specialty sushi followed by a visit to the Kitazawa Flotation Plant, the "Machu Picchu of the East."
【The Slow Island Life & Wellness Course】Enjoy cycling along beach, relaxing with fresh air and an panoramic ocean view. In the afternoon, visit one of Sado’s 25 natural hot springs to soak away any fatigue while surrounded by mountains or sea. Finish the day under a blanket of stars, reflecting on the small wonders found in the island’s shrines and forests.