A region known for its beautiful sea and abundant marine products. The entire city is situated within the Ise-Shima National Park, blessed with a mild climate and characterized by rich natural landscapes.

This area holds historical significance as the place where Mikimoto Kokichi achieved the world's first successful pearl cultivation. The history and culture of 'Ama,' women who dive into the sea to harvest marine delicacies through free diving, deeply permeate the region.

Ama fishing, a rare technique dating back around 2000 years, is thriving in Toba, where approximately half of the nation's Ama actively engage in this practice. Toba is often referred to as the 'Town where you can meet Ama,' highlighting its unique connection to this traditional occupation.

Moreover, numerous shrines and temples, revered by the Ama, contribute to the deep historical significance of the intimate relationship between the sea and the local culture.

Experience Ama Divers and the Birthplace of Cultured Pearls at the: 'Mikimoto Shinju Island'

Embark on an extraordinary experience where you can witness Ama divers in action right at the birthplace of cultured pearls, the site where the world's first cultured pearl was cultivated. Observing Ama divers in their traditional white diving attire, skillfully free-diving for treasures, is a sight rarely seen elsewhere.

The island also features attractions such as the Pearl Museum, where you can learn about the origins of pearls, the Mikimoto Kokichi Memorial Hall that introduces the life of Mikimoto Kokichi, the pioneer behind successful pearl cultivation, and Pearl Plaza, a shop dedicated to pearl sales.

Immerse yourself fully in the world of pearls and Ama divers that this region proudly showcases.

Experience a Special Moment to Discover the:
'Ama Diver Culture at Hachimankamado'

Here, you can not only savor the fresh seafood harvested by Ama divers in Ise-Shima but also engage with them in person. Ama Diver Huts are places where Ama divers warm up by the hearth and take breaks after their dives. It's an opportunity to hear their stories directly while enjoying freshly grilled seafood.

After the meal, you can take commemorative photos wearing an Ama diver's attire and immerse yourself in Ama culture by dancing the local 'Aisatsu-Ondo' dance with the Ama divers. Why not spend a special time experiencing the unique blend of food and Ama diver culture that Toba, Mie takes pride in?

The 2000-Year-Old Spiritual Homeland of the Japanese Heart: 'Ise Jingu'

In the neighboring city of Toba, there is the Ise Grand Shrine, affectionately known as 'O-Ise-san.' It is a sacred place dedicated to the Shinto deity 'Amaterasu Omikami,' the ancestral deity of the Japanese people. Serving as the central shrine among approximately 80,000 across the country, it attracts numerous visitors from around the world. With a history spanning 2000 years, it is revered as the highest-ranking shrine in Japan and often referred to as the spiritual homeland of the Japanese, prompting the saying 'at least once in a lifetime, make a pilgrimage to Ise.'

Traditionally, the pilgrimage involves first visiting the Outer Shrine and then proceeding to the Inner Shrine. The scenery of the gravel-lined approach, surrounded by towering trees in a lush precinct with sunlight streaming through, truly imparts a sense of having entered a sacred realm.

Experience the breathtaking scenery akin to a work of art with the expansive view of the beautiful coastline at the:
'Yokoyama Observation Deck'

Perched in Shima City, this observation deck offers a panoramic view of the stunning scenery of the famous Ago Bay, renowned for its ria coast. Located within the Ise-Shima National Park, the landscape is a masterpiece with over 60 islands creating a beautiful coastline.

The unique topography gives rise to this artistic spectacle, providing a luxurious moment to indulge in. Widely featured on travel websites, guidebooks, and social media, this place attracts many visitors eager to capture its beauty in photographs and memories. Come and experience the majestic scenery that changes with the seasons and time, offering a soothing balm for the soul.

This time, we introduced the Ise-Shima and Toba area located in the southeastern part of Mie Prefecture. Why not savor the history, natural landscapes, sacred spots, and truly valuable experiences that have been nurtured alongside the beautiful sea in this region, which Japan takes pride in?