An island floating in Toba Bay, the birthplace of pearl cultivation.

Ainoshima is a small island in Toba Bay with a circumference of about 1 kilometer. It is known as the birthplace of pearl cultivation, where Kokichi Mikimoto successfully cultivated pearls for the first time in the world in 1893. Since 1951, it has been open to the public as "Mikimoto Pearl Island," and has welcomed many travelers as a tourist facility that conveys the sea and pearl culture of Ise-Shima.
The island's biggest attraction is the demonstration by female divers clad in white diving suits. It's a rare opportunity to experience firsthand the diving techniques of these divers who supported the success of pearl cultivation. The "Pearl Museum" exhibits the history of pearl cultivation methods, antique jewelry made with natural pearls, and art and craft works using cultured pearls. At the "Mikimoto Kokichi Memorial Museum," you can trace the life of Mikimoto Kokichi, known as the "Pearl King." At the adjacent "Pearl Plaza," you can enjoy shopping and Food. Be sure to try the unique dishes only available on this pearl island, such as original menu items made with Akoya oyster adductor muscles. The island also features "Tama no Miya," which has watched over the island, "Negai no Ido," where you can write your wishes on Akoya oyster shells and throw them in, an observation deck overlooking Toba Bay, and natural forests where you can see wild birds, making it a perfect spot for a stroll.

・〒517-8511 1-7-1 Toba Toba-shi Prefecture
・View website
・5-minute walk from JR Toba Station and Toba Station
・12km (15 minutes) from Ise IC on the Ise Expressway via the Ise-Futami-Toba Line and National Route 42.