Toba

Toba, located in Mie Prefecture, is a charming coastal town with deep maritime and cultural roots. Nestled alongside Ise-Shima Bay, it is known for its tranquil scenery, its history tied to the sea, and for being the ideal base for exploring the region. One of Toba's main attractions is its connection to the legendary "ama," traditional female divers who collect shellfish and pearls without using oxygen tanks. This centuries-old tradition lives on, and in Toba, it is possible to visit ama villages or even share a meal with them as they tell their story. Additionally, Toba is home to the famous Mikimoto Pearl Museum, dedicated to Kokichi Mikimoto, a pioneer in the creation of cultured pearls. There, visitors can learn about the cultivation process, see displays of unique jewelry, and witness live demonstrations of ama divers at work. The city is also known for its excellent seafood cuisine, its boat tours around the bay, and its proximity to Ise Shrine, one of the most sacred Shinto sites in Japan.