Sado Island used to be a refuge for political dissidents, now part of the island has proclaimed itself the independed state of the Alcohol Republic (Arukōru Kyōwakoku).

The island has a huge festival culture with traditional dances such as Tsuburosashi (pictured) a fertility dance with phallic symbols and suggestive moves.

It would be a crime not to sample any of the 7 sake breweries on the island when you are here.