Mikimoto Pearl Island, positioned in Toba Bay, Mie Prefecture, Japan, is a lush, verdant island famous for being the primary region where Kokichi Mikimoto successfully cultivated pearls in 1893. Since its establishment to the public in 1951, the island has attracted several visitors from Japan and abroad.
The island spanning about 7,000 tsubo (5.72 acres), is home to sights that include the Kokichi Mikimoto Memorial Hall, which affords complete insights into pearls and honors Kokichi Mikimoto, often hailed as the King of Pearls. Additionally, Pearl Plaza offers a variety of shops and eating places. Visitors can also witness conventional diving demonstrations through female divers dressed in traditional white isogi apparel.
Map of Mikimoto Pearl Island
| Name | Mikimoto Pearl Island (Japanese: ミキモト真珠島) |
| Country | Japan |
| Prefecture | Mie |
| Coordinates | 34.48359950644517, 136.84660185623954 |
| Area | 14.81 km2 (5.72 sq mi) |
| Time zone | UTC +9 |
| Population | 0 |
| Airport | N/A |
History of Mikimoto Pearl Island
In 1893, Kokichi Mikimoto efficiently cultivated pearls for the first time in the world on Aijima Island, marking the beginning of his pearl farming company on the island.
In 1919, Toba Town received the rights to reclaim and use the waters around Aijima from the Imperial Steamship Company. In 1927, Toba Town repurchased Aijima from the Imperial Steamship Company.
In 1929, Toba Town bought Aijima another time, this time to Kokichi Mikimoto, who then began a proper aquaculture commercial enterprise. In 1951, "Mikimoto Pearl Island" become opened as a leisure facility. By 1971, the entire island was controlled by the "Mikimoto Pearl Island Co., Ltd." and the island was officially renamed "Mikimoto Pearl Island," a name it retains these days.
The island hosts the "Pearl Museum," in which traffic can research the whole thing about pearls, the "Kokichi Mikimoto Memorial Hall," which info Mikimoto's lifestyles, and the "Pearl Plaza," a purchasing and eating place that attracts site visitors from around the world.
Things to Do on Mikimoto Pearl Island
The "Pearl Museum" is where one can research everything about pearls
You can explore pearls from numerous perspectives, including records, art, craftsmanship, chemistry, and industry. There are also interactive exhibits wherein you can hold a shell to sense its weight, in addition to photograph spots that make you feel like you are on a farming raft!
The top-notch collection of pearl earrings
On the second floor of the Pearl Museum, diverse earrings and crafts featuring pearls are displayed. The artistry and craftsmanship of the portions made with an abundance of stunning pearls are really breathtaking. The famous every so often trade, so all through your subsequent go-to, you may stumble upon some portions for the primary time.
Hearing the isobue music live moved me deeply!
At Mikimoto Pearl Island, you can witness demonstrations of the ama divers at work. "Isobue" is the whistling sound made by the ama divers when they surface to rest. The first time I heard the isobue in person, I was touched by its pure beauty. The "Isobue of the Ama Divers of Ise-Shima" has been selected as one of the "100 Soundscapes of Japan"!
Kokichi Mikimoto's Passion for Pearls
At the Kokichi Mikimoto Memorial Hall, you can delve into the life of Kokichi Mikimoto. The restoration of his birthplace, "Awako," and the preservation of the Ebisu statue are also featured. Learning about his extraordinary life journey made me appreciate the value of pearls anew.
Enjoy a Leisurely Stroll Around the Island! Coastal Japanese Garden
The coastal Japanese garden and "Tama-no-Miya" are also popular attractions. It is said that Tama-no-Miya bestows blessings such as good fortune in love and longevity. Taking a stroll around the island is truly delightful!
