Mikimoto Pearl Island

Mikimoto Pearl Island (ミキモト真珠島) is a tourist attraction owned and operated by Mikimoto, located in Toba City, Mie Prefecture, Japan. The island is dedicated to pearls and the history of pearl cultivation.

The island is named after Kokichi Mikimoto, who is credited with inventing the technique for culturing pearls in the early 20th century. The Pearl Museum on the island showcases the history of pearl cultivation, the life of Kokichi Mikimoto, and the different types of pearls. The Mikimoto Kokichi Memorial Hall provides a deeper look into the life and achievements of the “Pearl King.”

Visitors can also watch demonstrations of pearl cultivation, showcasing the traditional techniques used by Ama divers, and learn about the intricate process of creating pearls. While Ama divers are no longer necessary for modern pearl farming, their demonstrations offer a glimpse into the history and cultural significance of their profession. The island has several shops that sell pearl jewelry and other pearl-related products, as well as restaurants and cafes where visitors can enjoy local cuisine.

Other attractions on the island include a pearl-harvesting experience corner and an observation deck offering panoramic views of the surrounding area. Mikimoto Pearl Island is a must-visit destination for those interested in learning about the history and beauty of pearls.

Getting there

Access by Train

• About 5 minutes on foot from Toba Station
• From Ise-shi Station to Toba Station:
  • JR Line: About 15 minutes, 240 yen
  • Kintetsu Line: About 15 minutes, 390 yen

Travel time from major cities:

• From Osaka: About 2 hours by Kintetsu Limited Express
• From Kyoto: About 2 hours 15 minutes by Kintetsu Limited Express
• From Nagoya: About 1 hour 30 minutes by JR or Kintetsu
• From Tokyo: About 1 hour 50 minutes by Shinkansen to Nagoya, then about 1 hour 30 minutes by JR or Kintetsu

Access by Car

• From Osaka area: About 3 hours
• From Kyoto area: About 2 hours
• From Nagoya area: About 2 hours