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There are an array of things to do in Japan, with Shima sharing quite a few of those!
In Shima, the world is your oyster and the pearl is waiting to be discovered.
From the pristine beaches to the bustling markets, the city offers a plethora of experiences that will tantalize your senses and leave you awestruck.
So put on your explorer’s hat and get ready to embark on a journey of a lifetime in the beautiful and enchanting Shima.
Without further ado listed below are some of the most fun things to do in Shima:
1. Ise Jingu
Ise Jingu is a Shinto shrine complex located in the city of Ise in Mie Prefecture, Japan. It is considered the most sacred Shinto shrine in Japan.
What to see or do: Visitors can explore the two main shrines, Naiku and Geku, which are both beautifully adorned with traditional Japanese architecture. Naiku houses the sacred mirror of Amaterasu, the sun goddess and ancestral deity of the Japanese imperial family.
Geku, on the other hand, is dedicated to Toyouke, the Shinto goddess of agriculture and industry.
Don’t miss: Don’t miss the opportunity to learn about Shinto beliefs and rituals at the shrine’s museum.
Visitors can also attend ceremonies, such as the Shikinen Sengu, which involves the transfer of important objects from the old shrine buildings to new ones every 20 years.
Insider travel tips: – It is best to visit during weekdays to avoid crowds.
2. Meoto Iwa
Meoto Iwa, also known as the Wedded Rocks, are two sacred rocks located in the sea off the coast of Futami in Shima City, Japan.
What to see or do: Visitors can view the rocks from the shore or hire a small boat to take them closer for a better view.
The rocks are considered a symbol of the Shinto belief in the unity of husband and wife, and many couples come to pray for a happy marriage at the nearby Futami Okitama Shrine.
Don’t miss: The sunset view of the rocks, which is said to be particularly beautiful.
Insider travel tips: Visit in the early morning or late afternoon to avoid the crowds. Also, don’t forget to try the local specialty of Ise-ebi (lobster) while in the area.
3. Toba Aquarium
Toba Aquarium is a popular destination located in the city of Toba, in the Mie Prefecture of Japan.
What to see or do: Visitors can see a wide variety of marine life including dolphins, sea turtles, penguins, otters, and many more.
The aquarium offers various interactive experiences like feeding shows, dolphin shows, and the opportunity to touch and interact with some of the creatures.
Don’t miss: The giant 30 meter-long Kuroshio Tank is the main attraction, which recreates the environment of the Kuroshio current, that flows between Japan and Taiwan.
It houses a wide variety of fish species including different kinds of sharks, rays, and other larger marine creatures.
Insider travel tips: – Get there early to avoid the crowds and enjoy the shows and attractions without having to wait in long lines.
4. Shima Spain Village
A Spanish-themed amusement park in Shima, Japan.
What to see or do: Enjoy various attractions including roller coasters, a ferris wheel, a water park, and a flamenco show.
Don’t miss: The replica of the Sagrada Familia church in Barcelona and the nightly parade with dancers in traditional Spanish costumes.
Insider travel tips: Don’t forget to try some of the Spanish-style food available, including paella and churros.
If you visit during the summer, be sure to bring sunscreen and a hat as the park can get quite hot.
5. Shima Marineland
Shima Marineland is an amusement park and aquarium located in Mie Prefecture, Japan.
What to see or do: Visitors can enjoy a variety of marine life exhibits, watch dolphin and sea lion shows, and even swim with dolphins. The park also features thrilling amusement rides, including a roller coaster and a ferris wheel.
Don’t miss: The dolphin and sea lion shows are a must-see, and visitors should also take a stroll through the underwater tunnel to see the colorful fish up close.
Insider travel tips: During peak season, the park can get crowded, so plan to arrive early or later in the day. If you’re interested in swimming with the dolphins, be sure to book in advance.
6. Ago Bay
Ago Bay is a picturesque bay in Japan’s Mie Prefecture, known for its crystal-clear waters, numerous small islands, and delicious seafood.
What to see or do: – Take a scenic boat tour around the bay and enjoy the stunning views of the surrounding scenery.
Don’t miss: – The beautiful rocky coastline, dotted with small islands and home to a variety of wildlife.
Insider travel tips: – Visit in the fall or winter when the crowds are smaller and the seafood is at its best.
7. Futami Okitama Shrine
Futami Okitama Shrine is a stunning Shinto shrine located in the city of Shima, Japan. It is known for its unique torii gate that stands in the sea, and its beautiful rock formations.
What to see or do: Visitors to Futami Okitama Shrine can admire the beautiful view of the sea and the torii gate, as well as the awe-inspiring Meoto Iwa, two rocks that are joined together by a sacred rope.
There is also a small museum on the shrine grounds that explains the history and significance of the shrine.
Don’t miss: Don’t miss the chance to take a photo of the torii gate, which is one of the most photographed sights in Japan.
It looks especially beautiful during sunrise and sunset. Also, don’t miss the chance to toss a lucky ball through the sacred rope that connects the Meoto Iwa.
Insider travel tips: – Visit in the morning to avoid crowds and get better lighting for photos.
8. Izawanomiya
Izawanomiya is a Shinto shrine located in the city of Shima in Mie Prefecture, Japan. It is known for its beautiful ocean views and vibrant festivals.
What to see or do: Take a leisurely stroll around the shrine grounds and soak in the stunning scenery of the surrounding natural beauty. Witness the annual spring festival where the shrine’s deity is paraded through the city streets on a portable shrine.
Don’t miss: Be sure to check out the dramatic cliffs and rock formations that surround the shrine, which offer stunning vistas of the jagged coastline and the blue expanse of the Pacific Ocean.
Insider travel tips: Visit Izawanomiya during the popular suigō-sai (water festival) held every July to experience traditional Japanese music and dance performances, as well as a dazzling fireworks display.
But be warned, the festival draws huge crowds, so be prepared for heavy foot traffic and limited parking options.
9. Shima Mediterranean Village
Shima Mediterranean Village is a luxurious resort located on the southern coast of Iran, overlooking the Persian Gulf.
What to see or do: Enjoy the stunning private beach, go swimming or snorkeling in crystal clear waters, and play beach volleyball. The resort offers a range of water sports activities such as jet skiing, banana boating, and kayaking.
Take a dip in the outdoor swimming pool or relax in the sauna and Jacuzzi. There is also an onsite restaurant serving up delicious international and local cuisine.
Don’t miss: Don’t miss the traditional Persian tea house located on top of the hill, offering breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape. Take a stroll around the lush gardens filled with palm trees and exotic plants.
Don’t forget to catch the beautiful sunset over the Persian Gulf.
Insider travel tips: Book your stay in advance as the resort tends to get busy during peak season. Be mindful of local customs, dress appropriately, and respect the local culture.
Take bug repellent as the area can have mosquitoes during certain times of the year.
10. Shima Parkland
Shima Parkland is a serene public park stretching over 17 acres of land in Sabah, Malaysia.
What to see or do: The park offers visitors a variety of activities, from picnicking and bird-watching to cycling and jogging. With its lush greenery and well-maintained trails, it’s the perfect spot for nature lovers to enjoy a peaceful stroll.
Don’t miss: One of the park’s main attractions is the suspension bridge that offers stunning views of the surrounding forest and the gently flowing stream below.
Visitors can also explore the various gardens that showcase different types of flora and fauna.
Insider travel tips: – Visit early in the morning or late afternoon to avoid the heat of the day.
11. Toba Sea-Folk Museum
Toba Sea-Folk Museum is a museum in Shima, Japan, dedicated to showcasing the traditional lifestyle of the local fishing communities.
What to see or do: Experience the lifestyle of Toba Sea-Folk through detailed exhibits depicting the culture, traditional fishery methods, tools, and maritime history. The museum gives visitors an immersive experience and insight into the lives of the fishers in ancient times.
Don’t miss: The highlight of the museum is the outdoor exhibit, which features a full-scale reproduction of a traditional fishing village.
Explore the houses and boats, and marvel at the exhibits showcasing various fishing techniques, including Ama women divers who can dive without oxygen tanks.
Insider travel tips: – For a unique experience, you can try Ama diving or join the fishing tour to learn how to catch fish with the traditional methods.
12. Kashikojima Island
A small island located off the coast of Shima city in Japan.
What to see or do: Kashikojima Island is best known for its beautiful beaches and scenic landscapes. Take a stroll along the white sandy beaches or go for a refreshing swim in the crystal clear waters.
The island is also home to several historic shrines and temples, including the Kashikojima Shrine, which is believed to have been built in the 6th century.
Don’t miss: The Kashikojima Island Light House is a must-see attraction. Climb to the top of the lighthouse for panoramic views of the island and the surrounding sea.
Another must-see attraction is the Ago Bay, which is known for its stunning sunsets and delicious seafood.
Insider travel tips: If you’re a seafood lover, make sure to try the local specialty, Ise-ebi (spiny lobster). You can also take a boat tour around the island to see its beautiful coastline and marine life.
And lastly, if you’re planning to visit during the summer season, be sure to catch the fireworks display over the Ago Bay.
13. Shima Natural Park
A scenic natural park located in Ise-Shima, Japan, known for its picturesque landscape and rich biodiversity.
What to see or do: Visitors can take a leisurely stroll along the park’s lush hiking trails, which offer panoramic views of the surrounding mountains and ocean.
There are also several picnic areas, playgrounds, and campsites for visitors to enjoy, as well as an on-site museum that showcases the park’s history and ecology.
Don’t miss: The park’s iconic suspension bridge, which offers stunning views of the surrounding landscape and is a popular spot for photography.
Insider travel tips: Plan your visit in the autumn months to witness the park’s vibrant fall foliage. Bring snacks and water, as there are limited food options within the park.
Consider staying overnight in one of the park’s campsites to fully immerse yourself in nature and experience the stunning night sky.
14. Harubayashi Forest Park
A stunning forest park located near the coast in the city of Shima, Japan.
What to see or do: Enjoy a leisurely stroll through the well-maintained forest trails while enjoying the beautiful flora and fauna. The park offers several hiking trails that vary in difficulty and make for a perfect adventure for nature enthusiasts.
Don’t miss out on visiting the observation deck that offers stunning views of Ago Bay.
Insider travel tips: Make sure to carry a camera to capture the beautiful scenic views. Wear comfortable walking shoes, sunscreen, and bug spray as the hiking can get long and tiring.
Visit the park early in the morning or during the off-season to avoid large crowds. The park offers free entry, making it affordable for all.
15. Matoya Bay Bridge
Matoya Bay Bridge is a picturesque suspension bridge in Shima, Japan, spanning over Matoya Bay.
What to see or do: Visitors can walk, bike or drive across the bridge for breathtaking views of the bay and its surroundings. The bridge is especially beautiful during sunset and in the evening, when it is lit up with mesmerizing LED lights.
Don’t miss: Don’t miss the opportunity to take stunning photos of this iconic bridge, both during the day and at night. Another must-see is the sunset, as it paints the sky in a stunning mix of oranges, pinks and purples.
Insider travel tips: – If you’re travelling by car, plan your visit according to sunset time and arrive a bit early to secure a good parking spot.