【Kashikojima】A Seaside Paradise Where Unseen Wonders Await

A Journey of Blue Waters and Shimmering Light: Kashikojima Espana Cruise

No trip to Kashikojima is complete without experiencing the Kashikojima Espana Cruise.

The Kashikojima Espana Cruise is a popular sightseeing cruise that takes visitors on a scenic voyage through the beautiful waters of Ago Bay in Shima City, Mie Prefecture. The Esperanza, meaning “hope” in Spanish, is a three-masted sailing ship modeled after the carrack vessels of Spain’s Age of Exploration. It offers a 50-minute cruise through the calm waters of the bay.

As the ship glides along, passengers are treated to the stunning, intricate coastline of the ria-style bay, dotted with islands of varying sizes. The scenery, viewed from the ship, resembles a breathtaking painting that changes with the seasons and time of day. Ago Bay is also famous for pearl farming, and visitors can see floating pearl rafts while experiencing the deep connection between the region’s natural beauty and its rich cultural heritage.

The ship’s first and second floors offer comfortable seating with panoramic views of the sea. The vessel is equipped with air conditioning and heating, ensuring a pleasant journey in any season, even on rainy days. The third floor features an observation deck, where visitors can enjoy a spectacular 360-degree view of the bay.

This cruise is highly recommended for families, couples, and friends looking to create unforgettable memories. When visiting Kashikojima, be sure to embark on this unique and scenic adventure.

Touch, Learn, and Connect With the World: Summit Memorial Hall “Samieru”

The Ise-Shima Summit Memorial Hall “Samieru” was established to commemorate the significance of the 2016 G7 Ise-Shima Summit, preserving its history for future generations. This facility provides valuable insights into the summit’s role, as well as the charm of the host region and the behind-the-scenes workings of international conferences.

Inside the museum, visitors can see authentic artifacts used during the summit, along with exhibits detailing the journey from Japan’s bid to host the event to its successful realization. One of the highlights is a section dedicated to the historical moments when world leaders came together to address global issues. The display includes the actual roundtable where discussions took place, as well as the guestbook signed by the G7 leaders, recreating the atmosphere of the summit with remarkable realism.

For a more interactive experience, the hall also features quiz-based exhibits, making learning engaging for both adults and children. Additionally, the exhibition showcases Mie Prefecture’s rich natural and cultural heritage, which played a key role in welcoming international leaders.

This museum blends a global perspective with local pride, making it a must-visit destination for those interested in history, diplomacy, and cultural exchange. Take a journey through time at “Samieru” and explore the themes of peace and cooperation that continue to shape our world today.

A Place Where Scenic Beauty Meets Culinary Excellence: Shima Kanko Hotel

Shima Kanko Hotel has been a symbol of hospitality since its opening in 1951, welcoming distinguished guests from Japan and abroad. In 2016, it gained international recognition as the venue for the Ise-Shima G7 Summit, further cementing its reputation as a premier luxury hotel. The hotel features two distinct wings: The Classic and The Bay Suite, both offering exquisite comfort and exceptional service.

One of the hotel’s most renowned highlights is its French seafood cuisine, which showcases the seasonal bounty of the region. At La Mer The Classic, guests can indulge in gourmet dishes featuring Ise lobster, abalone, and Matsusaka beef, each meticulously prepared to bring out the best flavors of Ise-Shima’s rich culinary heritage. Dining while watching the sunset over Ago Bay is an unforgettable experience that lingers in the hearts of many visitors.

The hotel also offers spectacular views of Ago Bay from its guest rooms and common areas, providing a serene and picturesque retreat. Additionally, an in-house gallery showcases art and historical pieces, further enhancing the refined and elegant atmosphere of the hotel.

Whether celebrating a special occasion or simply indulging in a luxurious getaway, Shima Kanko Hotel offers an unparalleled experience of elegance and relaxation.

Savor the Bounty of the Sea: The Exquisite Flavors of Ise-Shima

The culinary scene in Ise-Shima is a paradise for food lovers, featuring a diverse array of delicacies born from the region’s rich natural environment and abundant seas. Among them, four standout ingredients define the area’s gourmet reputation.

The first is Ise lobster, a namesake delicacy of Ise-Shima. Known for its plump texture and sweet flavor, this luxurious ingredient is best enjoyed raw as sashimi, grilled, or in a lavish hot pot dish.

The second is Anori fugu, a premium tiger pufferfish harvested from the nutrient-rich waters of Ise Bay. This winter delicacy is prized for its firm texture and refined umami flavor, making thinly sliced fugu sashimi (tessa) and deep-fried fugu highly recommended dishes.

The third is Matoya oysters, a famous brand of oysters cultivated in the pristine waters of Matoya Bay. Dubbed “the milk of the sea,” these oysters are creamy, rich, and intensely flavorful, best enjoyed raw or as deep-fried oyster cutlets.

Lastly, Matsusaka beef, a source of pride for all of Mie Prefecture, is celebrated for its exceptionally tender texture and marbled richness. Whether served as sukiyaki or a perfectly seared steak, this world-class wagyu offers an unparalleled dining experience.

Local chefs skillfully prepare these exceptional ingredients, creating dishes that highlight the harmony of flavors unique to Ise-Shima’s seasonal offerings. Each meal is designed to be a culinary journey, best savored in the heart of this vibrant coastal region.

For an unforgettable gourmet adventure, immerse yourself in the exceptional flavors of Ise-Shima and indulge in the very best of Japan’s seafood and wagyu traditions.