Mie: Mikimoto Pearl Island and the Birth of Cultured Pearls
Description
Discover the enchanting story of pearls on this guided walking tour in Toba, the birthplace of cultured pearls. Visit Mikimoto Pearl Island, where Kokichi Mikimoto's dedication led to the creation of the first cultured pearls in 1893. Walk across the elegant Pearl Bridge and explore the Mikimoto Pearl Museum, showcasing the art of pearl cultivation. Witness the traditional ama divers as they harvest shells by hand, connecting nature with human resilience. This immersive experience offers insight into Japan's pearl industry and celebrates the craftsmanship behind Mikimoto jewelry. - Guided tour through Toba’s pearl history and culture - Visit Mikimoto Pearl Island and the Pearl Museum - Observe traditional ama divers and their harvesting techniques - Learn about the evolution of pearls and Kokichi Mikimoto's legacy
Tour Options
Itinerary
Mikimoto Pearl Island in Toba is the birthplace of the world’s first cultured pearls, created by Kokichi Mikimoto in 1893. The island celebrates his vision through exhibits on pearl cultivation, the artistry of jewelry design, and the pioneering spirit that transformed Japan into a leader of global craftsmanship. Visitors can explore the Pearl Museum, watch live ama diving demonstrations, and admire dazzling creations that combine science, tradition, and beauty. Surrounded by the sea, Mikimoto Pearl Island offers a unique opportunity to experience where innovation and natural elegance meet.
Highlights
What's included
Traveller Ratings
Important Information
- Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
- Public transportation options are available nearby
- Suitable for all physical fitness levels
- This tour is a group tour, where one guide will accompany multiple groups of participants.
Reviews(3)
Great introduction to Toba! It was extremely helpful for a museum with only so much explained in english.
I visited Mikimoto pearl island with family as a day trip from Osaka. We took the Kenetsu train from Namba station which took just under 2 hours to Toba station.The island is 10 minutes walk from the station and connected to the mainland by a covered walkway. It is only a small island with the pearl museum, shop, resturant,memorial hall and beautifully kept gardens.The museum gave a history of how the cultured seawater pearl industry started and grew. It has a unique collection of beautiful jewellrey and peices shown at international fairs. there are demonstations of pearl diving by the AMA women divers who used to dive for the Acoya pearl oysters before it became a commercail enterpise. The entrance fee is Yen 1650. It is well worth visiting if you have an interest in pearl jewellery or just by the science of pearl culture.
Our guide was so nice and so enthusiastic about explaining the history and knowledge of the pearl museum and the divers.
