05 Jun 2023

Tub Boat riding on Sado Island's authentic Tarai Bune

  Japan truly is a diverse country of many surprises. Our visit to Sado Island was well off-the-beaten-track and an exceptional day of expedition travel.

  It started with a relaxed morning and a bit of education from Moshe on The Floral Zones of the World followed by John on The Life of a Geisha. An early lunch was followed by a quick Zodiac shuttle to the dock at Ogi. Then the fun started.

  In the warm sunshine we were greeted by a colourful and enthusiastic welcoming committee leading immediately to the Tarai Bune Tub Boat ride. Traditionally, huge miso tubs were converted to boats to harvest seafood from shallow waters. Not being 'boats' they were tax free - and it was a treat to be ferried around the harbour in them. The skill of the paddlers, as well as their smiles, was appreciated.

  A walk along the stark lava shoreline ended at the historic ship-building village of Shukunegi. The local museum gave us a rare and fascinating insight into historic Japan, as did the village of narrow alleyways with buildings made from ship's planks.

  The highlight of the day was a lesson in Japanese taiko/drums from the world famous Kodo drummers. Everyone got their own drum and the instructors led us through the basics before setting us loose to set our own rhythm. There was a chance to play the huge, beautiful bass drums crafted from a single huge tree trunk and root. Boom! Boom! Boom! After the lesson the instructors took to the drums to display their skill. The awe-inspiring display of flute and drumming was unforgettable.

  They then followed us back to the dock for more drumming, dancing, waving, and genuine pleasure that Heritage Adventurer had visited Sado. It was hard to leave with so much true affection generated on both sides.

   Our evening recap and another scrumptious diner followed, leaving us excited for how the voyage can possibly keep getting better.

Image (c) by: S.Tranmer