Toba Iseshima Customized Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide

Experience the spirit of Toba on a relaxed 6-hour journey blending ocean culture, sacred scenery, and traditional town life. Surrounded by Mie’s beautiful coastline, Toba has long been shaped by its deep connection to the sea. On this walking tour, explore the town’s maritime heritage, learn the story of Japan’s cultured pearls, and discover the traditions of the remarkable Ama female divers who have free-dived for centuries. Stroll along the harbor, enjoy scenic coastal views, and visit places that reflect both innovation and tradition — from the birthplace of pearl cultivation to museums preserving fishing community life. The journey continues to the sacred shoreline near Meoto Iwa, where two rocks joined by a rope symbolize harmony and good fortune. Nearby, wander through the nostalgic streets of Okage Yokocho, lined with traditional architecture and local flavors. Perfect for travelers seeking authentic seaside culture at a comfortable pace, entirely on foot.

1. 1

   Toba

   1 hour

   Toba Aquarium The facility is one of the world's most significant aquariums that houses the dugong, which became the model for the mermaid legend. With approximately 1,200 species, the aquarium is number one in Japan in the number of species exhibited. Recommended are the daily sea lion and walrus shows and the Project Exhibition featuring bizarre sea creatures!

2. 2

   Mikimoto Pearl Island

   1 hour

   Learn about the history of pearl cultivation pioneered by Mikimoto Kokichi and explore the Pearl Museum. Enjoy a live demonstration by traditional Ama divers, showcasing their remarkable free-diving skills.

3. 3

   Toba Sea-Folk Museum

   30 min

   It is the only Toba Sea-folk Museum in Japan that preserves and displays over 57,000 real-life exhibits and documents. There are powerful three-dimensional exhibits where you can learn deep-rooted connection of sea and people. In addition, the aesthetic facility has won various award.

4. 4

   Toba

   2 hours

   There are many Ama Huts in Toba. Enjoy a unique cultural experience at a traditional Ama hut. Savor freshly grilled seafood prepared by local Ama divers while listening to stories about their centuries-old diving traditions.

5. 5

   Futami Okitama Shrine

   30 min

   The shrine is famous for a pair of large and small rocks located side by side in the sea, known as Wedded rock (Meoto-iwa). The rocks serve as a torii gate to visitors offering prayers to the sunrise and to a sacred rock 700 meters offshore from Meoto-iwa. Many visitors come to pray to the sunrise especially on the Summer Solistice when the sun rises right in the middle of the rocks. Since ancient times the waters of Futamiura, as this section of the sea is called, has been the scene of misogi, a ritual immersion performed prior to visiting Ise Jingu. Inside Futami Okitama jinja there are many figurines representing frogs, which are considered auspicious symbols associated with the shrine.

6. 6

   Stop 6

   30 min

   The Wedded Rocks rise up by the shore along the main approach to Futami Okitama Shrine, a torii gate that greets the sunrise. Once a year around the summer equinox, the sun rises from between Wedded Rocks, making for a true sight to behold. Elsewhere within the grounds of this coastal shrine you'll find several statues of frogs, the auspicious animal said to be a messenger of the gods.

7. 7

   Okage Yokocho

   30 min

   Oharai-machi is a prosperous town in front of the torii gate of the Ise Jingu Inner Shrine. The stone-paved street, which stretches about 800 meters along the Isuzu River, is filled with historical buildings and a retro atmosphere typical of Oise-san. The streets are lined with many souvenir stores and restaurants, and you can enjoy walking around the town after visiting the shrine. If you go through the Seko alley from Oharai-machi street, you will come to the riverside of the Isuzu River. A stroll along the Isuzu River while gazing at its clear waters is also recommended.

• Wheelchair accessible
• Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
• Service animals allowed
• Public transportation options are available nearby
• Transportation options are wheelchair accessible
• All areas and surfaces are wheelchair accessible

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.