Happy TravellerWelcome to Toba, a picturesque city located on the northeastern tip of Shima Peninsula in far eastern Mie Prefecture, Japan. With an estimated population of 17,741 in 8328 households and a population density of 170 persons per km², Toba is a small but vibrant city that offers a unique blend of natural beauty, rich history, and cultural heritage. The entire city area is within the borders of the Ise-Shima National Park, making it a perfect destination for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts. In this travel guide, we will take you on a journey through Toba’s top attractions, local cuisine, and cultural experiences that will make your trip unforgettable.
Geography:
Toba is located on the northeastern tip of Shima Peninsula in far eastern Mie Prefecture, facing Ise Bay of the Pacific Ocean to the north and east. The area is famous for oysters and for cultured pearls. Toba administers numerous islands in the Ise Bay, the most important of which are Kamishima, Kozukumi Island, Ōzukumi-jima, Sugashima, Tōshijima, Sakatejima, and Mitsujima.
Climate:
Toba has a Humid subtropical climate (Köppen Cfa) characterized by warm summers and cool winters with light to no snowfall. The average annual temperature in Toba is 15.6 °C (60.1 °F). The average annual rainfall is 2,428.5 mm (95.61 in) with September as the wettest month. The temperatures are highest on average in August, at around 26.9 °C (80.4 °F), and lowest in January, at around 5.2 °C (41.4 °F).
Attractions:
Toba is home to a variety of attractions that cater to all interests. Here are some of the top attractions that you should not miss:
Mikimoto Pearl Island: This island is named after Kokichi Mikimoto, the inventor of cultured pearls. Visitors can learn about the history of pearl cultivation and watch demonstrations of pearl harvesting. The island also has a museum and a shop where you can buy pearl jewelry.
Toba Aquarium: This is one of the largest aquariums in Japan and is home to a wide variety of marine life, including dolphins, sea lions, and penguins. The aquarium also has a section dedicated to the local marine life of Ise Bay.
Toba Castle: This castle was built in the Sengoku period by Kuki Yoshitaka, a dominant ruler who controlled the local seacoasts. The castle was later used as the center for Toba Domain under the Tokugawa shogunate. Today, only the ruins of the castle remain, but visitors can enjoy the panoramic views of the city from the top of the hill.
Toba Sea-Folk Museum: This museum showcases the local fishing culture and history of Toba. Visitors can see traditional fishing boats, nets, and tools used by the local fishermen. The museum also has a section dedicated to the ama divers, who are female divers that collect seafood without using any breathing equipment.
Local Cuisine:
Toba is famous for its seafood, especially oysters and abalone. Here are some of the must-try dishes that you should not miss:
Ise-ebi: This is a type of spiny lobster that is caught in the waters around Toba. It is usually served grilled or boiled and is a delicacy in the region.
Tekone-zushi: This is a type of sushi that is made with bonito fish and marinated in soy sauce. It is a popular snack in Toba and is often sold at local markets.
Ama-zake: This is a sweet, non-alcoholic drink made from fermented rice. It is a traditional drink in Toba and is often served hot during the winter months.
Cultural Experiences:
Toba is a city that is rich in cultural heritage and offers a variety of experiences that allow visitors to immerse themselves in the local culture. Here are some of the top cultural experiences that you should not miss:
Ama Diving: Ama diving is a traditional fishing method that is unique to Toba. Female divers, known as ama, collect seafood without using any breathing equipment. Visitors can watch the ama divers in action and even try diving themselves.
Ise-Shima Cycling Road: This is a scenic cycling route that runs along the coast of Ise Bay. The route offers stunning views of the ocean and the surrounding mountains and is a great way to explore the natural beauty of Toba.
Toba Fire Festival: This festival is held every year on the first Saturday of February and is a celebration of the local fishing culture. The festival features a parade of traditional fishing boats, fireworks, and a bonfire.
In conclusion, Toba is a hidden gem that offers a unique blend of natural beauty, rich history, and cultural heritage. Whether you are a nature lover, a foodie, or a culture enthusiast, Toba has something to offer for everyone. So, pack your bags and get ready to explore this enchanting destination that should be on every traveler’s bucket list.
