Plan a CruiseToba, situated at the southern entrance to Ise Bay, is a popular tourist destination primarily known as the birthplace of cultured pearls. The cruise dock is conveniently located within walking distance of the town center, making local exploration straightforward. From Toba, you can also access several nearby islands, including Toshijima, Sugashima, and the more remote Kamishima, via local ferry services.
Getting Around from the Port
The cruise dock is within walking distance of Toba town, allowing for easy exploration on foot.
For wider exploration of the Ise, Futami, and Toba areas, the CAN Bus offers unlimited travel. A 1-day pass costs ¥1000 for adults and ¥500 for children, while a 2-day pass is ¥1600 for adults and ¥800 for children.
When using a taxi, note that the left rear door is opened and closed remotely by the driver; you should not attempt to operate it yourself. Tipping taxi drivers is not expected and can be considered impolite, as service is included in the fare. If you do not speak Japanese or your destination is not a well-known landmark, it is highly recommended to provide the driver with the precise address written on paper or pointed out on a map, as the Japanese address system can be complex.
Attractions and Activities
- Mikimoto Pearl Island: Located a short distance from the port, this theme park celebrates Toba's historical connection to cultured pearls. Here, Kokichi Mikimoto achieved the world's first successful cultured pearl in 1893. Explore the Pearl Museum to learn about the cultivation process and admire jewelry, visit the Mikimoto Kokichi Memorial Hall, and enjoy shopping and dining at Pearl Plaza. Don't miss the demonstrations by "ama," the traditional female pearl divers.
- Toba Aquarium: As one of the largest aquariums globally, Toba Aquarium is divided into 12 distinct zones, showcasing approximately 850 species of aquatic life. It's recognized for its successful breeding programs, including the world's first captive-bred dugong pair, the first captive-born Indian porpoise, and the second generation of sea otters in Japan. Visitors can also enjoy engaging sea lion shows at the performance studio.
- Ise Jingu Shrine (Ise): A profoundly significant spiritual site in Japan, often simply referred to as "Jingu." It comprises 125 shrines, including the main Toyouke Daijingu (Geku) and Kotai Jingu (Naiku). Traditionally, visitors begin their journey at Geku. Ise is reachable from Toba via the CAN Bus, making it a feasible day trip.
- Oharai-machi / Okage-yokocho (Ise): Located next to Ise Jingu's Naiku, Oharai-machi is a vibrant 800-meter street along the Isuzu River. This area, which prospered as a cathedral town, is lined with souvenir shops, traditional confectioneries, restaurants, and inns, offering a charming atmosphere for visitors.
- Futami: Known for its breathtaking beauty, which led to its name meaning "looking twice." Futami's landmark is the Meotoiwa (Wedded Rocks), and it was historically a town where visitors purified themselves before visiting Ise Jingu. This area is also accessible using the CAN Bus.
- Nearby Islands: For a change of scenery, consider taking a local ferry to the nearby islands of Toshijima or Sugashima. Kamishima is a smaller, more remote island option.
Dining & Shopping
Toba town, being within walking distance of the dock, offers various local eateries and souvenir shops. For a wider array of options, Oharai-machi / Okage-yokocho near Ise Jingu features an 800-meter street abundant with traditional confectioneries, restaurants, and souvenir shops. On Mikimoto Pearl Island, Pearl Plaza provides opportunities for dining and shopping, particularly for pearl-related items.
General shop opening hours in Japan are typically from 10:00 or 10:30 AM to 7:30 or 8:00 PM daily, including most national holidays (with the exception of New Year's). Some specialty shops may close on Sundays or national holidays, and department stores might have irregular closing days.
Safety
When using taxis, be aware that the driver remotely operates the left rear door; do not attempt to open or close it yourself. Additionally, tipping is not customary in Japan and is generally considered rude.
Currency and Language
The local currency is the Japanese Yen (¥), with notes in denominations of ¥10,000, ¥5,000, and ¥1,000, and coins in ¥500, ¥100, ¥50, ¥10, ¥5, and ¥1.
While major credit cards are widely accepted in many stores and restaurants in larger urban areas, Japan remains largely a cash-based society. It's advisable to carry sufficient cash, especially if you plan to visit more rural areas, as some establishments may not accept credit cards. ATMs that accept overseas cards are available at post offices and various other locations.
Tipping is not customary in Japan and is generally considered rude, as service charges are typically included in prices.
Language: Japanese is the official language. While English proficiency varies, especially outside of major tourist areas, having destination addresses written down or marked on a map can be very helpful, particularly when communicating with taxi drivers.