Shima Travel Guide

A comprehensive travel guide to Shima, including places to visit, hiking/biking routes, food and drink scene, where to stay, local culture and customs, and logistics.


Introduction to Shima

Japan’s Shima Peninsula is located in the Mie Prefecture of Kansai, on the eastern coastline of the country. It is a beautiful area known for its numerous islands and nature preserves.

List of Places to Visit in Shima

Whether you are a cultural buff or enjoy soaking up nature, Shima has something for everyone. Here are some of the top places to visit:

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Ise Grand Shrine: The Ise Grand Shrine is one of the most important Shinto shrines in Japan, dedicated to the sun goddess Amaterasu. It is surrounded by towering cedar trees and is a must-see for anyone interested in Japanese culture.
  • Oharai-machi: Oharai-machi is a traditional shopping street near the Ise Grand Shrine. It is full of local handicrafts, souvenirs, and street food.
  • Toba Aquarium: Toba Aquarium is one of Japan’s largest aquariums, with 12 sections containing over 25,000 marine creatures. It is also home to the popular “Dolphin Island” show.
  • Mikimoto Pearl Island: The Mikimoto Pearl Island is a museum dedicated to pearl farming in Japan. Visitors can learn about the history of pearl farming and watch demonstrations in the pearl workshop.
  • Shima Spain Village: Shima Spain Village is a theme park inspired by Spanish culture. It features numerous attractions and restaurants in a beautifully landscaped setting.

Natural Attractions of Shima: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Shima Nature School: Shima Nature School is a great place to learn about the local environment and participate in outdoor activities such as kayaking, hiking, and wildlife watching.
  • Mikimoto Pearl Island (again): In addition to the museum, visitors can also take a tour of the pearl oyster beds where the prized pearls are grown.
  • Shima Marine Land: Shima Marine Land is a popular aquarium located near the city of Toba. It features a variety of exhibits, including whale sharks and dolphins.
  • Toba Bay: Toba Bay is a stunning body of water that is home to numerous islands, including the pearl farming island of Toshijima.
  • Suzuka Quasi-National Park: Suzuka Quasi-National Park is a vast natural area that includes the Suzuka Mountains, the Nemu River, and the Ise Bay.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Shima

Shima is a great place to explore on foot or by bike. Here are some of the best routes:

  • The Ise-ji Trail: The Ise-ji Trail is a historic route that leads from the Ise Grand Shrine to the Kumano Kodo pilgrimage route. It is a great place to explore the countryside and visit a variety of historic sites.
  • The Tomo-no-Ura Loop: The Tomo-no-Ura Loop is a popular hiking route that takes visitors through a picturesque fishing village and along the rugged coastline of the Shima Peninsula.
  • Shima Nature School: Shima Nature School has a variety of hiking and biking trails that wind through the local forests and hills.
  • Kumano Kodo: Kumano Kodo is a series of pilgrimage routes that lead to the Kumano Sanzan shrines. The routes feature a variety of historic and cultural attractions, as well as scenic vistas.

Best Things to Do in Shima: Activities and Tours

Whether you are an adventure seeker or just looking to relax, Shima has plenty of activities and tours to choose from. Here are some of the best:

  • Fishing Tours: Shima is home to a thriving fishing industry, and visitors can participate in a variety of fishing tours, including sea bream and tuna.
  • Kayaking: Kayaking is a popular way to explore the local waterways, including the many small islands that dot the coastline.
  • Visiting the Islands: Speaking of islands, Shima is home to numerous small islands that are great for a day trip or overnight stay, including Toshijima and Kashikojima.
  • Whale Watching: Shima offers a variety of whale watching tours, where visitors can witness the majestic creatures up close.
  • Onsen: Shima is famous for its onsen, Japanese hot springs that offer numerous health benefits. Visitors can enjoy the natural hot springs at a variety of locations, including the Toba Grand Hotel and the Kagaya Hotel.

Week-Long Itinerary for Shima

Here is a sample itinerary for a week in Shima:

Day Activity
1 Visit the Ise Grand Shrine and Oharai-machi
2 Explore Toba Bay and Toba Aquarium
3 Hike the Ise-ji Trail and visit the ancient Kumano Kodo routes
4 Island hop to Toshijima and explore the island’s pearl farming industry
5 Participate in a fishing tour and enjoy a seafood feast
6 Relax at a local onsen or visit Shima Nature School
7 Reflect on your travels and enjoy local cuisine before departing

Food and Drink Scene of Shima

No trip to Shima is complete without sampling some of the local cuisine. Here are some must-try dishes and beverages:

Must-Try Dishes

  • Ise-ebi: Ise-ebi, or spiny lobster, is a local delicacy that is prepared in a variety of ways, including grilled and boiled.
  • Tekone-zushi: Tekone-zushi is a type of sushi that is made with marinated tuna and served over rice.
  • Matsusaka beef: Matsusaka beef is a type of Japanese Wagyu beef that is raised in the Mie Prefecture. It is known for its rich flavor and marbled texture.
  • Akafuku mochi: Akafuku mochi is a type of sweet sticky rice cake that is topped with sweet red bean paste.

Local Beverages

  • Sake: Sake is a traditional Japanese rice wine that is made in numerous varieties, including the local brews produced in the Mie Prefecture.
  • Umeshu: Umeshu is a type of plum liqueur made from local Japanese plums. It is sweet, sour, and served over ice.
  • Green tea: Shima is famous for its high-quality green tea, which can be found at numerous tea houses throughout the region.

Where to Stay in Shima: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Shima has a variety of lodging options to suit every budget and preference. Here are some of the best:

  • Toba Kokusai Hotel: Toba Kokusai Hotel is a large hotel complex that features numerous restaurants, an onsen, and magnificent ocean views.
  • Urashima Taro: Urashima Taro is a traditional Japanese inn that has been in operation for over 100 years. It features a variety of room types and a private beach.
  • Ise Pearl Pier Hotel: Ise Pearl Pier Hotel is a modern, boutique-style hotel that is located near Toba Bay. It features a restaurant and a rooftop terrace.
  • Toba Grand Hotel: Toba Grand Hotel is a luxurious, 5-star hotel that features numerous hot spring baths, a pool, and several restaurants.

What to Buy in Shima: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Shima is famous for its high-quality seafood, green tea, and pearls. Visitors should consider bringing home some of these local products as gifts or souvenirs. Shima also has numerous local handicrafts, including pottery and textiles, that make great gifts.

Local Culture and Customs of Shima

Shima is a region steeped in cultural and religious history. Visitors should respect local customs, including wearing appropriate attire when visiting religious sites, and removing shoes before entering homes and some restaurants. Tipping is not customary in Japan, and visitors should always be polite and respectful in their interactions with locals.

Best Time to Visit Shima

Shima is a year-round destination, with each season offering something unique. However, the best time to visit is in the spring and fall, when the weather is mild and the crowds are smaller.

Do’s and Don’ts of Shima

Do:

  • Respect local customs and traditions.
  • Try local cuisine and products.
  • Learn about the history and culture of the region.
  • Be polite and respectful in your interactions with locals.

Don’t:

  • Trespass on private property.
  • Be rude or disrespectful to locals.
  • Litter or damage natural areas.
  • Ignore local customs or traditions.

Safety and Health

Safety in Shima

Shima is a very safe area, with very low levels of crime. However, visitors should still take the usual precautions, including being aware of their surroundings, not leaving valuables unattended, and using common sense when traveling alone at night.

Health in Shima

Shima is generally a very healthy region, with a high life expectancy and low rates of disease. Visitors should take care to stay hydrated, wear appropriate clothing to protect against the sun, and seek medical attention if needed.

Getting to Shima: Transportation Options and Logistics

Shima is easily accessible from major cities in Japan. Here are some transportation options:

Airports Near Shima

  • Chubu Centrair International Airport (NGO): Chubu Centrair International Airport is located in Nagoya and is the closest airport to Shima.
  • Kansai International Airport (KIX): Kansai International Airport is located in Osaka and is a major international gateway to Japan.

Bus Stations Near Shima

  • Ise-shi Station: Ise-shi Station is the closest bus station to the Ise Grand Shrine and provides bus connections throughout the region.
  • Toba Station: Toba Station is located near Toba Bay and provides connections to numerous destinations throughout Shima.

Other Options

  • Train: Shima is accessible by train, with connections available from major cities such as Nagoya and Osaka.
  • Taxi: Taxis are readily available throughout Shima, and are a convenient way to get around for short trips or when traveling in a group.

How to Get Around in Shima

Shima is a compact area that is easily explored on foot, by bike, or by car. Public transportation options include buses, taxis, and trains.

Where to Go Next from Shima: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

If you have time after exploring Shima, be sure to check out these nearby destinations:

  • Ise City: Ise City is located just north of Shima and is home to numerous cultural attractions, including the Naiku and Geku shrines.
  • Matsusaka City: Matsusaka City is located to the west of Shima and is famous for its beef and traditional textiles.
  • Nara: Nara is located to the northwest of Shima and is known for its many historic temples and shrines.

Conclusion

Shima is a beautiful region of Japan that offers visitors an opportunity to explore the country’s rich history, culture, and natural beauty. Whether you are interested in hiking, biking, or simply relaxing at an onsen, Shima has something for everyone. We hope this travel guide has been helpful in planning your trip to Shima.

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