Blessed with vivid blue seas and lush greenery, Toba is a coastal city located in Ise Shima National Park in eastern Mie Prefecture. This city—as well as adjacent cities, Ise and Shima—is a part of the Ise Shima region, which is renowned for its breathtaking nature, rich cultural heritage, and spiritual significance. In fact, Ise Jingu Shrine in Ise is regarded as the “Soul of Japan” since it enshrines deities central to Shinto. In addition to Ise Jingu, the region is dotted with numerous shrines and temples that harmonize with the environment.
The bountiful ocean has also played a huge role in bolstering Ise Shima’s development, supporting its globally-renowned pearl industry and Ama culture. Ama divers are free-diving women who use traditional fishing techniques to source seafood. Today, the seaside splendor also plays host to numerous outdoor activities, such as sea kayaking and snorkeling. Naturally, Toba is abundant in fresh seafood, including Japanese spiny lobster (Ise ebi), oysters, and abalone. High-grade Matsusaka Beef and Ise udon, a historic dish once eaten by pilgrims visiting Ise Jingu, are also must-tries.
Kamenoi Hotel Toba serves as a luxurious and convenient base for sightseeing in Ise Shima. This stylish accommodation was recently renovated in 2022 and features unparalleled seafood, rejuvenating hot springs, diverse room types, and meaningful activities that connect guests to the region.
What can I do in and around Toba?
Toba and the greater Ise Shima region are home to numerous sightseeing destinations, experiences, and dishes that showcase the area’s legacy.
Sightseeing
At the heart of Ise Shima sightseeing is Ise Jingu, an over 2,000-year-old shrine. This impressive complex houses 125 Shinto shrines and performs over 1,500 rituals annually. The complex’s most important—and Japan’s most sacred—shrine is Naiku (Inner Shrine), which enshrines Shinto’s revered deity, the Sun Goddess. Before you visit Naiku, it is customary to first visit Geku (Outer Shrine). Geku enshrines the Shinto deity for food, housing, and clothing. Incredibly, Naiku, Geku, and other important structures are ritually reconstructed every 20 years, making the shrine virtually eternal. During the Edo period (1603–1868), visiting Ise Jingu became a major trend among common people. This pilgrimage, known as O-Ise Mairi, was a once-in-a-lifetime event that every Japanese person dreamed of experiencing.
Leading to Naiku is Oharai Machi, a roughly one-kilometer-long street lined with traditional-style buildings, shops, and restaurants—some of which have been serving visitors for centuries. The street is popular for its Ise udon, Akafuku Mochi (rice cakes topped with sweet bean paste), Tekone sushi (a traditional fisherman’s dish from Ise Shima), and an array of souvenirs.
If you move closer to the ocean, you will find Futami Okitama Shrine and Meoto Iwa (wedded rocks). The two sacred rocks are connected by a shimenawa rope, which separates the earthly and spiritual realms, and are regarded as symbols of marital harmony and matchmaking. During summer, you can even watch the sun rise between the two rocks. The nearby Futami Okitama Shrine has a charming atmosphere filled with lucky frog statues.
Located farther inland on Mt. Aomine’s 336-meter summit is Aonominesan Shofukuji Temple. This secluded temple offers stunning views of Ise Bay and is known as a guardian of the sea. The mountain’s quiet nature creates a peaceful temple visit.
Women will not want to miss Shinmei Shrine, where a deity named Ishigami-san grants one wish for each woman. The shrine is a popular spot for both local Ama and women from all over Japan. Be sure to pick up the shrine’s signature amulet, which features a star and grid marks, for good luck.
Experiences and activities
Without a doubt, Ago Bay is one of Ise Shima’s most iconic sights. The stunningly blue waters are dotted with over 60 lush islets and framed by uniquely shaped coastlines. Unsurprisingly, the area is a hotspot for ocean activities. Embark on a sea kayaking adventure, witness the underwater world through snorkeling, or join a memorable SUP (stand-up paddleboard) experience. Towards the end of day, the bay becomes a famous sunset spot where orange skies shimmer on the gently rippling tide. You can admire the scenery from the shoreline or join a dreamy sunset cruise.
Thanks to its nutrient-rich waters, Ago Bay is central to many of Ise Shima’s industries, namely fishing and pearl cultivation. In fact, Ise Shima was the first place in the world to successfully cultivate pearls and is globally recognized for its high-quality pearls. At Mikimoto Pearl Island, located in Toba Bay, and Ise-Shima Pearl Museum, you can create your own accessories using the area’s premium pearls. Mikoto Pearl Island also displays information about the history and culture of Ise Shima pearls and hosts diving demonstrations that showcase how the Ama used to harvest pearls. Just a five-minute walk from Mikimoto Pearl Island, Toba Aquarium is an impressive facility that houses the largest number of species in Japan. Here, you can meet adorable sea otters up close, along with a dazzling variety of marine life.
Speaking of the Ama, these free-diving women are an integral part of Ise Shima’s heritage and have a history that dates back over 3,000 years. Presently, Toba has the highest population of Ama in Japan. Ama Hut “Hachiman Kamado,” resting along Matoya Bay, sheds light on this long-established world, allowing you to converse with the Ama, eat charcoal-grilled shellfish, and wear traditional Ama attire. Through Kamenoi Hotel Toba’s website, you can book this experience with an interpreter.
If you are interested in cleansing your mind and body in nature, participate in a waterfall meditation (taki-gyo) at Shirataki Daimyojin. This type of meditation includes standing under a waterfall and praying—an act that symbolizes washing away idle thoughts, discipling the mind, and connecting with nature.
Cuisine
Toba is renowned for its fresh seafood, with delicacies like Ise ebi (spiny Japanese lobster), abalone, Uramura oysters, and Tekone sushi. In addition to its blessings from the sea, Toba is also famous for its Matsusaka beef—a premium Japanese wagyu—and Ise udon.
- Japanese spiny lobster: known for its sweet, tender meat. It is often enjoyed raw (sashimi), grilled (onigawara-yaki), or boiled.
- Abalone: a type of marine mollusk known for its delicate sweetness and briny flavor. You can enjoy it raw, steamed, or grilled.
- Uramura oysters: a locally-harvested type of oyster that is in season during winter. During oyster season, oyster huts in Toba offer “all-you-can-eat” menus. People often enjoy the oysters grilled or steamed.
- Tekone sushi: a local dish that originated in Ise Shima as a fisherman’s meal. Raw bonito or tuna is soaked in a soy sauce-based marinade and served over vinegared rice.
- Matsusaka beef: one of the top wagyu brands in Japan. It is known for its rich, creamy taste and melt-in-your-mouth texture. The meat is often enjoyed in a dish called shigure-ni—thinly-sliced beef simmered in a sweet and savory sauce.
- Ise udon: known for its fluffy, chewy, and thick noodles. It is served with a tamari soy sauce-based soup.
Shopping
Shopping in Toba would be incomplete without pearls. Numerous shops in the city sell pearl accessories (such as necklaces, earrings, bracelets, and rings), small items, and even cosmetics made with pearl powder. Stop by Mikimoto Pearl Island, Ise-Shima Pearl Museum, or other souvenir shops to find stunning pearl products. Kamenoi Hotel Toba also offers pearl accessories at its on-site store, so you can easily pick up memorable keepsakes at your accommodation.
Where can I stay in Toba?
Craft a peaceful lodging experience that reflects Ise Shima’s charms at Kamenoi Hotel Toba. This four-star hotel is only a short 10-minute drive from Toba Station and offers breathtaking views of Toba Bay from its lobby and guest rooms. Its offerings and Wa-modern design—a style that blends traditional Japanese aesthetics (wa) with modern elements—gently guide you into a state of wonderment and relaxation.
Guest rooms
Kamenoi Hotel Toba’s guest rooms combine modern designs, traditional Japanese aesthetics, and soothing color palettes to create comfortable spaces that reset the mind and body—perfect for relaxing after a day of exploring. The various room types can accommodate two to five guests and offer both Western beds and Japanese tatami bedding.
For a truly rejuvenating stay, consider booking a room with a private open-air bath. The pleasantly hot water and solitude will melt away any tension, and the ocean breeze will transport you to paradise. The hotel also has rooms with terraces that offer mesmerizing panoramas of Toba Bay and the cityscape.
The guest rooms are ideal for people of all ages, including families with young children, couples, and friends. Everyone can find a room type that seamlessly fits their needs.
Cuisine
Kamenoi Hotel Toba’s food offerings are a celebration of Ise Shima’s gastronomy. The hotel has two restaurants—a buffet-style restaurant (Miyabi) and a Japanese-style restaurant (Hana). Both eateries overlook Toba Bay and serve delectable dishes that highlight the region’s local delicacies.
Miyabi
Miyabi is a 90-minute, all-you-can-eat buffet-style restaurant stocked with roughly 50 dishes, both Western and Japanese. The buffet features a wide selection of seafood and mountain ingredients prepared by chefs in a live kitchen. Fill your plate with freshly fried tempura, Ise udon, Matsusaka hamburger steaks, and more. The buffet is an excellent option if you’re looking for a casual dining experience. Similarly, the breakfast buffet offers a range of delicious eats, including grilled fish, miso soup, bread, and egg dishes. You can even create your own seafood bowl!
Hana
Hana is an elegant restaurant that serves kaiseki—traditional, multi-course Japanese meals. The seasonally changing menus showcase Iseshima’s premium ingredients, such as Japanese spiny lobster, abalones, and Matsusaka beef. The restaurant’s limited number of guests and intimate space create a calm atmosphere perfect for dining on kaiseki. The artfully-plated dishes and luxurious flavors will take you on an unforgettable culinary journey.
Nighttime Dandan noodles
One of Kamenoi Hotel Group’s signature offerings is its complimentary, late-night Dandan noodles, available from 9–10:30pm. Each month, the hotel offers one of the following flavors: sichuan, black sesame, or white sesame. Enjoy a deliciously relaxing night.
Hot springs
Kamenoi Hotel Toba’s public baths are filled with natural hot spring water sourced from its private hot spring, Shioka no Yu, which is quite rare in Ise Shima. The water, which is also mixed with transported hot spring water, is gentle on the skin and said to help remedy muscle pain, joint stiffness, fatigue, and more.
The indoor bath has a bright, classic design and wide windows that flood the space with natural light. The newly added open-air bath rests under Toba’s wide sky, granting you views of bright midday blues, sunset hues, and starry nights. The encircling wooden enclosure provides privacy while still allowing the ocean breeze through.
Amenities and activities
Kamenoi Hotel Toba’s facilities ensure that you will have a pleasant stay. Pick up local products at the hotel store, such as Ise udon and Japanese spiny lobster rice crackers, sing the night away at karaoke, and enjoy 24-hour refreshments, including beverages and ice cream, at the numerous vending machines. The hotel also has a laundry corner and a smoking booth.
In terms of off-site experiences, Kamenoi Hotel Toba offers a variety of activities that connect you to Ise Shima’s local culture. You can join a food-centered walking tour in Toba, explore Toushijima Island, visit Ama Hut “Hachiman Kamado,” and more. Take your trip from great to extraordinary with these immersive offerings.
Three-day, two-night sample itinerary in Ise Shima
Please note that car travel is required for the below itinerary.
Day 1
- Morning: Travel to Iseshi Station via train (travel times vary depending on the departure point). After you arrive, store your luggage in the station's coin lockers or at the storage luggage facility beside the station to explore hands-free. If you’re interested, the facility also offers rental bicycles.
- Late morning to afternoon: Begin your trip with a visit to Ise Jingu’s Geku (Outer Shrine). Then, pick up your luggage, rent a car, and drive to Naiku (Inner Shrine). Geku and Naiku are approximately five kilometers apart, and on foot, it takes about one hour to walk between them. After exploring Naiku, wander through Oharaimachi and Okage Yokocho, where you can try tasty local snacks and peruse souvenir shops. The freshly made Akafuku Mochi is a must-try! Be sure to also sample the locally brewed draft beer and fried oyster skewers at Ise Kadoya Brewery. Next, drive to the hotel (check-in starts from 3pm).
- Evening/night: Enjoy a 90-minute, all-you-can-eat buffet dinner at the hotel, relax in your guest room, and unwind in the hotel’s hot spring baths.
Day 2 – Ama and pearl-focused day
- Early morning: Visit Futami Okitama Shrine (20-minute drive) to watch the sunrise with Meoto Iwa in the foreground. The famous sunrise—when the sun rises between Meoto Iwa—occurs about one week before to one week after the summer solstice.
- Morning: Return to Kamenoi Hotel Toba and have a light breakfast.
- Late morning/early afternoon: Drive to Ama Hut "Hachiman Kamado" (25–30 minutes), and enjoy a 75-minute meal experience with the Ama. After your meal, visit Shinmei Shrine (only a five-minute drive away), make a wish, and pick up a lucky amulet.
- Late Afternoon: Visit Mikimoto Pearl Island (25-minute drive) and learn about Ise Shima’s pearl industry. Be sure to catch an Ama demonstration, which occurs every hour from 9:30am to 4:30pm (except 12:30pm). If you desire, you can pick up a pearl souvenir at this facility.
- Evening/night: Return to the hotel (five-minute drive), enjoy a delicious kaiseki dinner, and unwind in the hot spring baths.
Day 2 (Alternative) – Nature-focused day
- Early morning: Visit Futami Okitama Shrine (20-minute drive) to watch the sunrise with Meoto Iwa in the foreground. The famous sunrise—when the sun rises between Meoto Iwa—occurs about one week before to one week after the summer solstice.
- Morning: Return to Kamenoi Hotel Toba and have breakfast.
- Afternoon: Drive to Ago Bay (35–40 minutes). Enjoy water sports (sea kayaking, snorkeling, SUP, etc.) and have local cuisine for lunch.
- Evening/night: Return to the hotel (35–40 minutes), enjoy a delicious kaiseki dinner, and unwind in the hot spring baths.
Day 3
- Morning: Enjoy breakfast at the hotel and check out.
- Late morning/afternoon: Return the rental car and depart from Iseshi Station.
Toba: Your gateway to Ise Shima
In Toba and the greater Ise Shima region, you can explore unique Japanese culture, cuisine, and nature born from the sea. While Ise Shima is the spiritual homeland of the Japanese people, it is not well known overseas and offers both cultural enlightenment and rejuvenation. Craft an adventure that best aligns with your desires, and immerse yourself in the soul of Japan.
