Welcome to Ryotsu Port, also known as “Tsu,” meaning port. In the past, this area was called Ryotsu because of its two ports, connected by a wooden bridge. At the foot of the bridge, you’ll find the Murasame no Matsu tree, said to have been planted during the Edo period by an official from a nearby police station.
Originally, Ogi was the gateway to Sado, but with the opening of the port in the Meiji period, Ryotsu’s port became bustling and a customs office was placed there. Many ships flocked to Ryotsu in the winter not only because of its deeper waters but also because of its calm waters, making it an ideal refuge from the northwest winds.
The area around Ryotsu Port is known as “Camellia Port,” flourishing in the winter just like the camellia that blooms during that season. The mountains to the north block the northwest winds, creating a bright landscape and a fertile plain.
As you explore, you’ll see rafts for cultivating oysters floating on the lake, showcasing the ongoing changes in this beautiful area. It may be that this ancient pine tree has been witnessing all these changes up to the present day.