5 Must-Do's in Downtown Toba
- Mar 3
- 2 min read
Updated: Mar 6
If you are staying in or passing through the center of Toba, these five spots cover the town’s maritime history, local food, and the best vantage points for seeing the coastline.
This is the birthplace of the cultured pearl industry. The island features a museum of antique pearl jewellery and displays on how pearls are formed, a building dedicated to the work of Kokichi Mikimoto, a restaurant, and a jewellery store, but a major draw is the Ama divers. You can watch demonstrations of how these traditional female divers used to help with pearl production back around the turn of the 20th century. Their classic white outfitshave been central to the town's identity for generations. This is usually the only way to see ama actually diving because the real diving isn't on display anywhere.
As one of the largest aquariums in Japan, this facility is divided into twelve zones. It is particularly known for being the only place in the country where you can see a dugong. It provides a comprehensive look at the marine life of the Ise-Shima region and beyond. Crowds often form around popular tanks, like the sea otters, so don't be surprised if you have to queue to get up close.
Located on a hill overlooking the harbor, the ruins of Toba Castle offer the best panoramic view in the city center. Once the base for the Kuki "Suigun" (navy), the site now consists mostly of stone wall foundations and a park, but it remains the best spot to see the islands and boat traffic from above. There aren't any building ruins, but there is a free app for smartphones to view the castle using augmented reality.
4. Local Food and Ise Udon
Toba’s food culture is defined by its proximity to the sea, but Ise Udon is the essential regional dish. These noodles are notably thicker and softer than standard udon, served in a dark, slightly sweet soy-based sauce. For those looking for more, the town is also famous for its seasonal oysters and spiny lobster.
5. Coffee at Musea
After walking through the town or the aquarium, Musea is a reliable local spot for a break. It’s a modern cafe located near the waterfront with a solid reputation for its coffee and desserts. It’s a quiet place to sit and watch the activity in the port before heading back to the station or your hotel.
