There is something about ferries that puts you in a frame of mind to think back in time.
The ride from mainland Niigata Prefecture to Sado Island stretches two hours or more, during which time the shore you left and the one you are anticipating are quite likely never in view at the same time.
The modern hydrofoil could get you there in an hour. An airplane, even less. But the ferry journey brings to mind older journeys and the effort it must have taken to make the crossing without motorized transport.