Shima | Life of the Ama Divers: Ama Hut Seafood Feast, Pearl Harvesting & a 3-Day, 2-Night Ise-Shima Journey 056
Itinerary Details
Living Cultural Heritage: The World of the Ama
Ama are traditional Japanese female free divers who have practiced breath-hold fishing for centuries, using simple tools and techniques passed down through generations. In Ise-Shima, visit an authentic Ama hut, where you can sit around a crackling charcoal fire, watch the Ama prepare freshly caught seafood, and hear stories about their lives and relationship with the sea. This intimate encounter offers a glimpse into a way of life built around living in harmony with nature.
From Oyster to Pearl: Discover the Art of Pearl Cultivation
Shima is one of the world’s historic centers of cultured pearl production. At Pearl Beauty Tree, learn about the process of pearl cultivation and try extracting a pearl from an oyster yourself with guidance from a professional. Combined with a visit to Mikimoto Pearl Island, where you can learn about the history and craftsmanship of cultured pearls, this hands-on experience reveals how the treasures of the sea are transformed into beautiful pearls.
Itinerary
Day 1: The Legend of Pearls & the People of the Sea
Mikimoto Pearl Island & Ishigami Shrine
Meet at Mikimoto Pearl Island and discover the history of cultured pearl production while learning about the craftsmanship behind these famous Japanese pearls. You can also witness a traditional Ama diving demonstration. Afterwards, visit Ishigami Shrine, locally known as “Ishigami-san,” a beloved place of worship where women have long come to pray for their wishes and good fortune.
Sea Museum & Hotel Stay
Visit a marine museum to explore the traditional tools, knowledge, and everyday lives of communities who have long depended on the sea. In the evening, check in to your hotel and enjoy a seasonal Japanese kaiseki dinner featuring local ingredients.
Day 2: Shima's Landscapes & the Treasures of the Sea
Yokoyama Observatory & Pearl Harvesting Experience
Head to Yokoyama Observatory for panoramic views over the intricate Rias coastline of Ise-Shima, where countless islands and inlets create a distinctive landscape. Afterwards, enjoy a hands-on pearl harvesting experience and discover the unique pearl hidden inside an oyster. You can turn your pearl into a one-of-a-kind keepsake to remember your journey.
Satoumi-an, Ama Hut & Spanish Cruise
Enjoy a charcoal-grilled seafood lunch at an authentic Ama hut and spend time talking with the Ama about their work and life on the sea. Afterwards, board a Spanish-style sightseeing boat from Kashikojima and cruise through Shima Bay. Pass oyster and pearl cultivation rafts while taking in the dramatic coastline from the water and seeing Ise-Shima from a completely different perspective.
Important Information & Cancellation Policy
Important
Information &
Cancellation Policy
Important Notes
- Ingredients served at the Ama hut are subject to seasonal availability. Abalone and Ise lobster are available at an additional cost and must be purchased separately.
- The sea cruise is subject to weather and wave conditions. If the cruise is cancelled due to unsafe conditions, an alternative experience of equivalent value will be provided.
- As this is a food-focused cultural experience, guests with seafood allergies should consult with us before booking.
Cancellation Policy
- Once a reservation is made, a 5% system cancellation fee will be charged if the reservation is cancelled due to personal reasons
- 14–8 days before departure: 20%
- 7–2 days before departure: 30%
- 1 day before departure: 50%
- On the day / No-show: 100%
