HOME > Japan’s Local Treasures > Private Ama Diver Experience and Dinner
Get to meet one of Shima’s iconic ama divers and enjoy a dinner of freshly caught seafood on a private beach
Mie Prefecture
Get to know the tradition of the female ama divers of Shima City in Mie Prefecture, who have been fishing and diving off the coast for over 2,000 years, receiving the designation as an important intangible folk cultural property.
As of 2024, there are around 200 active ama, who are 65 years old on average. The Shima region is one of a handful keeping the tradition alive.
Participants will join their own ama “butler,” who will accompany them to the sea to witness traditional basket fishing. Marvel at the resilience and endurance of these divers who fish below the waves without oxygen tanks. Guests will then be escorted back to a private beach, where a top-class chef will prepare an exquisite original dish incorporating the day’s fresh catch.
This premium experience is luxurious from start to finish, featuring an intimate dining space on a private beach complete with service staff and the hospitality of the ama butler. The main chef who will skillfully prepare the seafood harvested by the ama diver was formerly the executive chef at a Michelin starred restaurant in Shima City. Depending on availability, another famous local chef who specializes in Japanese and Western cuisine may take his place.
How to get there
Ama Hut Satoumian: From Nagoya Station, walk 5 minutes to Kintetsu Nagoya Station, then take the Kintetsu Limited Express train to Ugata Station (about 2 hours 10 minutes). From there, the hut is a 1-hour bus ride away.
Kashikojima Port: From Nagoya Station, walk 5 minutes to Kintetsu Nagoya Station, then take the Kintetsu Limited Express train to Kashikojima Station (around 2 hours). The port is a short walk from the station.
2279 Koshika, Shima-cho, Shima-shi, Mie-ken
Shinmei, Ago-cho, Shima-shi, Mie-ken
