Mikimoto Pearl Island, just offshore in Toba, was where Kokichi Mikimoto first invented his process to culture pearls. Later he turned the island into a showpiece that has seen many famous visitors from all over the world. It includes a museum of pearl culturing, an exhibition of antique jewelry featuring pearls, a jewelry store, book store and skin care store, and Ama diving displays. The well manicured grounds also make it a pleasant place to stroll around and enjoy the sea views.
- 1 min read
The Birthplace of Cultured Pearls
Kokichi Mikimoto's Pearl Island in Toba

By Cathy Cawood
Community writer

Statue of Kokichi Mikimoto

View of Mikimoto Pearl Island from nearby

A manicured pine beside the island's sign

Visitors walk along this road to approach the museum

The Pearl Museum building

View from the island

Floats for oyster nets can be seen on the water around the island

Ama diving displays are viewed from this structure

Book shop

A dry garden of raked sand surrounds a stone as round as a pearl
Join the discussion
Olga
10 years ago
Mikimoto-san combines well with the blue sky and green pines!
1 comment in total
Book your trip
Find a nearby hotel
Explore some of the best nearby hotels and deals for the perfect place to stay in Japan.
Top Articles
-
1
70 Nations, One Amazing Meal
Osaka - Sponsored -
2
25 Authentic Activities in Minobu
Yamanashi - Sponsored -
3
Tokyo Auto Salon 2026 Japan Car Tour: Cars, Culture & The Open Road
Chiba -
4
PokéPark Kanto Set to Open in Spring 2026
Tokyo -
5
Miyoko Schinner: Japan Vegan Tour 2026
Food -
6
Enjoy Toba: More Than Just a Seaside Retreat
Mie - Sponsored -
7
Watching Noh in Tokyo
Tokyo -
8
I’m Donut?: Japan’s Viral Donut Sensation
Culture -
9
Umamusume: Pretty Derby
Culture -
10
Azumino, Japan’s Peaceful Highland Getaway
Nagano - Sponsored
-
1
Gion Matsuri
Kyoto -
2
Guide to Bringing Medicines Into Japan
Planning -
3
July Grand Sumo Tournament (Nagoya)
Aichi -
4
Tenjin Matsuri
Osaka -
5
The Ultimate Guide to Thrifting in Tokyo
Shopping -
6
Your Name: Real-Life Locations in Tokyo
Tokyo -
7
Kamakura Fireworks
Kanagawa -
8
Yodogawa Fireworks Festival
Osaka -
9
Edogawa Fireworks Festival
Tokyo -
10
Shitamachi Tanabata Matsuri
Tokyo