Watch Female Divers in White Wetsuits Perform Traditional Diving. The Gleaming Exhibits at the Pearl Museum Too
About this spot
The island where Mikimoto Kokichi successfully cultivated pearls for the first time in the world in 1893, known as the "birthplace of pearls" and a symbol of Toba. The entire small island, accessible by bridge just across from Toba Station, is a museum. The main highlight is the traditional breath-hold diving performed by female divers in white wetsuits. Watching them dive from a boat into the sea and emerge, placing their catch in buckets—the traditional technique up close—will captivate the children. At the Pearl Museum, you can easily learn how pearls form, and be enchanted by numerous lavish works of art adorned with pearls. At the Kokichi Mikimoto Memorial Hall, you can trace the life of the founder known as the "Pearl King." A spot brimming with Toba's essence where you can experience the story of the sea and pearls.
Tips
About 5 minutes walk from Toba Station; access the island via a dedicated bridge. Female diver performances occur several times daily, so checking the next performance time when entering and then viewing the Pearl Museum is efficient. The pathways on the island are well-maintained and accessible with a stroller. The shop is enjoyable even just to browse, so it's good to allow a bit of extra time.
Best time to visit
Approximately 1 hour required. Visiting the island in early afternoon, timed with a female diver performance, is recommended.
Access & map
〒517-0011 Toba, Mie Prefecture, Toba 1-chome 7, Pearl Island
Model course featuring this spot
Toba Aquarium and Mikimoto Pearl Island - A Full Day by the Seaside
Mie
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