Serenity, privacy and authenticity await you in a quiet corner of Japan that is only a 3.5 hour drive south from Kyoto, and perfect to include in a spring or summer itinerary.

After soaking up the history and culture of Kyoto, you’ll wake up a world away from the bustling streets, ready to explore a coastline that is steeped in traditions and offers plenty of unique attractions.

The wild and rugged coastline and the neighbouring Ise Shima National Park gives way to the sheltered waters of Ago Bay, the heart of Japanese pearl production. These fertile protected waters interspersed with craggy islands and inlets provide the perfect environment for abundant seafood, and offer a rich heritage ready to be explored.

Here are just some of the unique experiences we can arrange during your stay in and around Ise-shima:

Your suggested tailor-made itinerary:

Arrive in Ise Shima after a morning exploring the ancient Imperial capital of Nara and check into your luxurious hotel.

Overnight accommodation at the wonderful Amanemu, a luxury boutique hotel onsen resort set in the forested hills above Ago Bay.
You’ll enjoy a full-day guided tour with a local expert guide visiting the Shinmei Shrine, which has been an important centre of worship for the local community since ancient times.
You’ll visit Osaka-kamado to meet local Ama (female shellfish divers) who will host a delicious shellfish lunch in one of their traditional fishing huts.
After lunch, you’ll visit the Mikimoto Pearl Island where you can learn about the story of pearl production and visit the fascinating museum.
Overnight back at Amanemu: enjoy private onsen spa experience followed by a delicious meal in the hotel’s award-winning restaurant.
On the second day, your private guide will accompany you to Goza Beach, one of the most active Ama diving and fishing locations.
You’ll visit Shiobotoke, a rare spiritual sanctuary located in the sea, followed by a visit to Shinju-no-Sato in Ago Bay, where you will have the opportunity to work with local artisans to create your own pearl jewellery or accessory which will serve as the perfect memento of
your stay.
After your workshop, you will be taken by private boat charter to Masaki Island (jewel island) in the heart of Ago Bay, where you will be welcomed at an exclusive boutique property Moku-Iseshima, where master sushi chef Yuichi Hori will treat you to a delicious private lunch at his celebrated restaurant Yataka-zen.