Things To Do
in Shima
Shima is a picturesque coastal town located in Mie Prefecture, Japan. It is known for its beautiful beaches, lush greenery, and hot springs. The town is also famous for its fresh seafood, particularly its delicious oysters.
Shima is a popular tourist destination for those looking to relax and enjoy the natural beauty of Japan.
- "Arigatou" - Thank you
- "Sumimasen" - Excuse me / I'm sorry
- "Konnichiwa" - Hello / Good afternoon
- "Eigo o hanasemasu ka?" - Do you speak English?
- "Oishii" - Delicious
Prices
- 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $60 - $150
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $10 - $30
- ☕ Coffee: $3 - $5
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $2 - $5
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $40 - $80
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $30 - $60
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a relaxing stroll along Shima's pristine beaches. Enjoy the sound of the waves and the fresh ocean air.
Have lunch at a local seafood restaurant and then head to Gozaisho Mountain for a short hike and breathtaking views. Take your time to explore the area and snap some pictures.
Finish your day with a sunset view at the beach. Enjoy a picnic dinner while watching the colors of the sky change.
Wake up early and get ready for a day of hiking. Head to the Ise-Shima National Park to enjoy the serene nature trails.
After your hike, visit the local museum to learn about the area’s natural history. Take a leisurely lunch at a nearby café.
Wrap up your day with a traditional Japanese meal at a top-rated restaurant. Reflect on your adventures while enjoying the local flavors.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Beautiful natural scenery, including stunning coastlines and mountains.
- Rich cultural heritage with historical sites and traditions.
- Delicious local seafood and traditional Japanese cuisine.
- Low population density, offering a peaceful and relaxed atmosphere.
- Opportunities for outdoor activities such as hiking, fishing, and diving.
- Limited access to urban amenities and services compared to larger cities.
- Potential language barrier for non-Japanese speakers.
- Harsh weather conditions during certain seasons, including typhoons.
- Limited public transportation options, making travel more challenging.
- Smaller job market with fewer employment opportunities in certain fields.
Best Activities in Shima
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
A beautiful national park with scenic coastlines, islands, and hiking trails.
Explore the coastal roads and countryside by bike for a leisurely and scenic experience.
Visit the birthplace of cultured pearls and learn about pearl cultivation in a beautiful island setting.
Places to Visit in Shima
Visit one of these nice places.
A beautiful park offering stunning views of Ago Bay and its surrounding islands.
A great place to capture aerial views of Shima and its coastal surroundings.
An area with charming architecture and picturesque views perfect for photography.
Food in Shima
Shima Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Ise Ebi is a local specialty known for its sweet and succulent meat. It can be enjoyed grilled, steamed, or in a variety of dishes. For the freshest Ise Ebi, head to the seafood markets or specialty restaurants along the coast.
Must-Try!
Matsusaka beef is highly prized for its exceptional marbling and delicate flavor. Indulge in this premium beef in yakiniku (grilled meat) restaurants or teppanyaki establishments where it is expertly prepared and served.
Tekonezushi is a local style of sushi featuring marinated raw fish served atop vinegar-seasoned rice. It's a must-try delicacy in Shima, and can be found at traditional sushiya (sushi restaurants) and izakayas.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Visit Ise Nasu no Hataage Market for a vibrant display of fresh seafood, local vegetables, and specialty food products. You can sample grilled seafood on skewers, takoyaki (octopus balls), and other street food delights within the market area.
Toba Seafood Street is a lively district offering a variety of stalls and small eateries serving fresh seafood dishes. Try the local oysters, grilled fish, and unique seafood snacks while exploring the bustling street food scene.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
In Shima, it is customary to bow as a sign of respect when greeting someone, especially when meeting someone for the first time.
It is important to remove shoes before entering a home or certain traditional settings in Shima as a sign of respect for the cleanliness of the indoor space.
In Shima, people tend to maintain a respectful distance from others, especially when engaging in conversation or interaction, and it is important to be mindful of personal space boundaries.
Safety
Tipping in Shima
Ensure a smooth experience
In Japan, tipping is not a common practice and is often seen as unnecessary. In fact, it may even be considered rude in some situations. Service charges are usually included in the bill at hotels and restaurants, so there is typically no need to tip.
In Shima, Japan, cash is widely used for most transactions, and credit cards are not as commonly accepted as in some other countries. It's advisable to carry enough cash, especially when visiting smaller establishments or more rural areas. However, major hotels, department stores, and international restaurants are likely to accept credit cards.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Best time to visit Shima, Japan for cherry blossom viewing and mild temperatures. Expect crowds during cherry blossom season.
Best time for beach activities and water sports. Expect hot and humid weather.
Best time for fall foliage with beautiful colors. Expect pleasant temperatures and less crowded tourist spots.
Best time for enjoying hot springs and winter illuminations. Expect cold temperatures and possible snowfall.
Shima at Night
Hiking in Shima
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A beautiful national park featuring stunning coastal views, diverse wildlife, and a network of hiking trails that cater to all skill levels.
While primarily known for its pearl cultivation, the surrounding areas offer scenic trails with views of the ocean and rich flora.
A historical site with hiking trails leading to the castle ruins, providing a mix of culture and nature as well as beautiful views of the city.
Adjacent to the aquarium, there are various coastal paths that allow hikers to enjoy sea views and unique marine ecosystems.
Offers hiking trails with panoramic views of the surrounding mountains and valleys, suitable for more adventurous hikers.
Aiports
How to reach Shima by plane.
The main international airport serving the Chubu region, located on an artificial island in Ise Bay, approximately 40 kilometers from Shima.
An international airport located on an island in Osaka Bay, about 150 kilometers from Shima, serving the greater Osaka area.
Also known as Komaki Airport, it is closer to Nagoya and serves mainly domestic flights but is approximately 60 kilometers from Shima.
A domestic airport located in Osaka, it is about 150 kilometers from Shima but serves some international flights and is closer to the urban center.
While not an airport, this train line connects to Kansai International Airport and is an option for travelers heading to the airport from Shima area.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The predominant ethnic group in Shima, representing the majority of the population.
Includes a small number of expatriates and foreign residents from various countries.
A historically indigenous group in Japan, though their presence in Shima is very limited.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Football is a widely popular sport in Shima, with local clubs and schools participating in various leagues.
Baseball has a strong following in Shima, as many youth participate in teams throughout the region.
Basketball is also popular among students and community teams, with many facilities available for practice and play.
Due to its coastal location, Shima is known for surfing, attracting enthusiasts to its waves.
Traditional sports such as sumo and kendo have cultural significance and are practiced in local communities.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Shima.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
While seafood plays a prominent role in Shima's cuisine, many restaurants and cafes offer vegetarian and vegan dishes featuring fresh local vegetables, tofu, and unique plant-based ingredients. Look for establishments that highlight these options on their menus or inquire with the staff for recommendations.
Individuals with gluten sensitivities can enjoy meals in Shima by seeking out eateries that cater to gluten-free diets. Some places may offer rice-based dishes, gluten-free noodle alternatives, and carefully prepared traditional Japanese cuisine that naturally avoids gluten-containing ingredients.