In the landscape of Nagoya, a modern industrial city, few people would think of island-hopping tourism. However, the small islands scattered along the Ise Bay coast offer the most precious window into understanding the marine culture of the Chubu region. These islands have preserved a fishing village atmosphere utterly different from the busy container terminals of Nagoya Port, creating a unique journey that allows visitors to experience island serenity while observing the transformation of Japanese fisheries.
Cultural Contrast from Industrial Port City to Fishing Village Tranquility
As Japan's fourth-largest city, Nagoya's port serves as a crucial hub for global automobile exports. Yet, within less than an hour's boat ride from these modern docks, several small islands still maintain fishing traditions dating back to the Edo period. This juxtaposition of industry and tradition creates an exceptionally rare travel experience—one can visit the Toyota Commemorative Museum of Industry and Technology in the morning, and taste freshly caught octopus at a fishing port in the afternoon.
Recently affected by Japan-China relations, group tourists from China have significantly decreased, allowing these small islands to return to a purer fishing village appearance. Local fishermen have begun trying to directly face the individual tourist market, offering more personalized experiences.
Recommended Islands and Experiences
Hinagata Island: Ama Diving Traditions of the Octopus Kingdom
Address: 〒470-3504 Aichi Prefecture, Chita District, Minamichita Town, Hinagata Island
This small island with a circumference of approximately 5.5 km is famous for octopus fishing, and a small number of ama (traditional female divers) still practice their traditional free-diving fishing here. Unlike other tourist-oriented areas, the ama here are not performing for visitors but are genuine professional fishermen. During the annual Octopus Festival from June to September, visitors can witness the daily work of the ama and taste fresh octopus caught the same day. Most minsuku (traditional guesthouses) on the island are operated by retired fishermen, with one-night two-meal plans starting from ¥12,000, and dinner typically features octopus dishes local to the island.
Shino Island: Living Fossil of Ancient Salt-Making Techniques
Address: 〒470-3505 Aichi Prefecture, Chita District, Minamichita Town, Shino Island
Shino Island preserves the traditional method of salt-making, being one of the few places still using the Edo-period "Irihama-style" salt-making technique. This salt-making technology has been designated as an intangible cultural property of Aichi Prefecture, and visitors can participate in experiencing the salt-making process. The salt fields on the island take on a distinctive golden glow under the sunset, making it a hidden paradise for photography enthusiasts. Local fishermen also offer night fishing experiences using traditional fishing fire techniques to attract fish.
Saku Island: Fusion of Modern Art and Fishing Village Life
Address: 〒444-0416 Aichi Prefecture, Nishio City, Isshiki Town, Saku Island
This island has regained attention in recent years due to art festivals, but unlike well-known art islands such as Naoshima, the artistic works on Saku Island are more closely tied to the daily life of the fishing village. The "Black House" and colorful house clusters on the island were not built for tourism but are living spaces co-created by local residents and artists. The sight of fishing boats moored alongside art installations presents new possibilities for post-industrial era island communities.
Kaji Island: Sea Fishing and Dramatic Cliff Views
Address: 〒444-0701 Aichi Prefecture, Nishio City, Higashihazu Town, Kaji Island
This uninhabited island is known for its steep cliffs and abundant fish resources. Local fishermen offer charter services where visitors can experience real offshore fishing operations. Sea bream fishing in spring and autumn is the most popular experience, using traditional local fishing methods with a high success rate. There are no commercial facilities on the island, making it the best choice for experiencing a purely natural island environment.
Practical Information
How to Get There
From Nagoya Station, take the Meitetsu Kawae Line to Kawaeguchi Station (approximately 50 minutes), then transfer to a bus to Morosaki Port (approximately 20 minutes). Ferry services to each island:
- Hinagata Island: 6-8 daily departures, approximately 20 minutes one way, ¥690
- Shino Island: 5-7 daily departures, approximately 25 minutes one way, ¥780
- Saku Island: 3-4 daily departures, approximately 30 minutes one way, ¥830
Estimated Costs
- Transportation (Nagoya round trip): approximately ¥3,000-4,000
- Island accommodation: minsuku ¥8,000-15,000, upscale ryokan starting from ¥25,000
- Activities: ama experience ¥3,000, salt-making experience ¥2,000, chartered fishing boat starting from ¥15,000 (shared by 4-6 people)
Operating Hours
Ferry services typically run from 6:30 AM to 6:00 PM, with fewer services in winter. It is recommended to confirm ferry schedules in advance, especially for the last boat of the day on your return journey.
Travel Tips
Due to limited tourism infrastructure on these islands, it is recommended to plan a 1-2 day itinerary and stay overnight on the island for a deeper experience. Spring (April-May) and autumn (September-November) are the best seasons, with pleasant weather and the most abundant seafood. Although winter is cold, you can enjoy winter-exclusive seafood such as oysters.
Bring warm clothing and windproof jackets, as sea winds are strong with significant temperature differences. If planning to participate in fishing activities, it is recommended to wear non-slip footwear. ATMs and convenience stores are scarce on the islands, so it is recommended to prepare cash in advance.
Affected by recent international circumstances, foreign tourists to these islands are relatively few, making it a great opportunity to experience local culture. When communicating with local fishermen, they often share ocean knowledge passed down through generations of their families, which is often more valuable than any travel guide.
