“The museum is dedicated to showcasing the history of pearl cultivation in Japan and worldwide, exhibiting a wide variety of pearls, including some of the most valuable pearls in the world.”
Mikimoto Pearl Island is where Kokichi Mikimoto first successfully cultivated pearls in 1893. The museum is devoted to the history of pearl cultivation in Japan and worldwide, exhibiting pearls of various types, including the world’s most valuable. Displays cover pearl cultivation from ancient times to modern techniques, highlighting the cultural importance of pearls in Japan.
Visitors can watch live demonstrations by traditional Ama female divers, see historic diving equipment, and learn modern pearl farming techniques. The museum’s collection includes jewelry worn by celebrities and royalty, including the 2000 Pearl, the world’s largest cultured round pearl, and the Mikimoto Crown with over 10,000 pearls.
Interactive experiences include virtual pearl diving and workshops where visitors can make their own pearl jewelry. The Mikimoto Pearl Museum is a fascinating destination for anyone interested in pearls, Japanese culture, or the history of pearl cultivation.
How to Get There
- From Toba Station, take a ferry to Mikimoto Pearl Island; the trip takes about 5 minutes from Toba Port.
Travel Tips
- Allow 1–2 hours to fully enjoy the museum and Ama demonstrations. Summers can be hot, so bring water and a hat.
Admission fee:
- Adults: ¥1,650
- Children (Age 6–15 / Elementary & Junior High School): ¥820
Entrance includes access to all island facilities such as the Pearl Museum, Kokichi Mikimoto Memorial Hall, and the Ama diving demonstration.
Discounts:
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Group discounts for 20 or more people
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Combination tickets (e.g., Toba Marumie Passport: Mikimoto Pearl Island, Toba Aquarium, Toba Bay Tour & Dolphin Island) offer savings compared to individual tickets
Opening time:
- Generally 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM (closing times may vary seasonally, sometimes 4:30 or 5:30 PM)
Closed for three consecutive days starting from the second Tuesday of December