The History of Ama and Pearls　　　Pearl Divers in Shima

Why are the Ama of Shima, Mie Prefecture, known as “Pearl Divers”?
This exclusive two-day program invites you to uncover the fascinating history of the Ama and their deep connection to the sea. Meet the women who have dived for generations, and discover the secrets behind Shima’s world-famous pearls.

You’ll learn about the deep connection between pearls and the Ama—a story known only to the elders of a long-established pearl shop. Witness real Ama diver as they gracefully plunge into the sea, experience pearl farming firsthand, and savor freshly grilled seafood prepared by the divers themselves.

Private boat cruise to a floating bar, where you can enjoy beautiful sea views and hear stories from a local elder.

You can listen to the elder’s stories while enjoying the beautiful view of the sea.

Watch Ama divers up close as they dive into the waters.

Optional: Dive together with the Ama (available from April to November).

Visit a pearl farm

Pearl extraction experience

Enjoy lunch at a traditional Ama hut, prepared with local seafood.

Try on an authentic Ama diving costume.

Visit Yokoyama Observatory for a panoramic view of Ago Bay.

Overview

Availability	All year round （Some dates may be unavailable.）
Capacity	2 to 5 guests
Boarding Location	Entrada Kashikojima 752-21 Shinmei,Ago-cho,Shima-city,Mie,Japan （Approx. 2-minute walk from Kashikojima Station）
Price	JPY 100,000 / per person (Minimum of 2 participants required)
Inclusions	・English-speaking guide ・Story session with a local elder ・Private boat charter ・Ama diving observation (optional participation) ・Pearl extraction & accessory-making experience ・Private vehicle for transportation ・Lunch at an Ama hut ・Insurance & consumption tax
Notes	・Please fill out the reservation form with your preferred date and number of participants. ・Requests may not be accommodated depending on availability. ・The tour may be canceled due to weather. A decision will be made by 5:00 p.m. the day before the tour. Sudden cancellations may occur due to unexpected weather changes.
Cancellation Policy	・2–5 days before: 50% refund ・1day or less before: No refund
Operator	IST Co., Ltd Mie Prefecture Travel Agency License No. 3-363 (Governor of Mie Prefecture)

Schedule

Day 1	15:30　Meet at Entrada Kashikojima 　　　Transfer to a private bar for a special talk by the local elder. 17:00　Return to Entrada Kashikojima and dismiss.
Day 2	9:30　Meet at Entrada Kashikojima 　　Take a small boat to watch—or even join—the Ama divers as they work in the sea. 　　Experience a hands-on pearl extraction and accessory-making workshop. 　　Enjoy lunch at a traditional Ama hut, featuring freshly grilled seafood. 　　Visit Yokoyama Observatory for panoramic views of Ago Bay. 16:30　Tour concludes at Kashikojima Station.