Exploring the Cultural Riches of Ise Shima with Aisha

First Impressions of Ise Shima: A View from the Top

Today marked the beginning of our Ise Shima adventure, and what a start it has been! Aisha and I dove headfirst into the region's stunning landscapes and rich culinary scene. From panoramic views atop Yokoyama Observatory to the bustling streets of Okage Yokocho, every moment was filled with discovery and delight. I'm excited to share the highlights of our first day in this beautiful corner of Japan.

Our day began with a hearty breakfast at La Mer the Classic. Nestled within the Shima Kanko Hotel, this Michelin-starred restaurant offered not only exquisite French cuisine but also breathtaking coastal views. I opted for a traditional Japanese breakfast set, while Aisha, ever the Francophile, indulged in a classic croissant and coffee. The blend of culinary artistry and stunning scenery set the perfect tone for our day. I must admit, starting the day with such elegance is a far cry from my usual Ottawa routine of rushing through emails with a quick cup of Nigerian coffee!

Fueled and ready, we made our way to the Yokoyama Observatory Deck. The drive itself was an experience, winding through lush greenery as we ascended towards the summit.

Experience the stunning vistas of Iseshima from the Yokoyama Observatory Deck, a must-visit for breathtaking panoramic views and nature exploration.
The Ise-Shima Skyline is a toll road that connects Ise City with Toba City via Mount Asama. Reaching the top, we were greeted by a vista that truly took our breath away. Ago Bay spread out before us, dotted with numerous small islands and the intricate rias coastline that makes this area so unique. The sky was clear, and the panoramic views stretched as far as the eye could see. Aisha, with her keen eye for beauty, was in photography heaven, snapping away at the stunning scenery. We spent a good hour simply soaking it all in, feeling grateful for the opportunity to witness such natural beauty.

  

To travel is to take a journey into yourself.

After descending from the heights of Yokoyama, our stomachs began to rumble, leading us to our next destination: Ama Hut Satoumian. This unique restaurant offered an authentic experience of dining with Ama, the female divers of Ise Shima.

Experience authentic Japanese seafood at Ama Hut Satoumian in Shima – where freshness meets tradition on your plate.
These incredible women, some active and some retired, shared stories of their lives and work as they grilled fresh seafood over a charcoal fire. Aisha and I sat captivated, listening to their tales of diving for abalone and other treasures of the sea. The seafood itself was incredibly fresh and flavorful, enhanced by the rustic and welcoming atmosphere of the hut. It was a truly immersive experience, connecting us with the local culture in a way that no guidebook ever could. I even tried my hand at grilling some scallops, though I think the Ama divers were far more skilled than I was!

With our bellies full and our hearts warmed by the stories of the Ama divers, we ventured into Okage Yokocho, a charming shopping street that recreates the atmosphere of the Edo and Meiji periods.

Experience the rich cultural heritage and culinary delights at Okage Yokocho, a must-visit destination in Ise, Japan.
The street was bustling with activity, a vibrant mix of locals and tourists alike. Shops lined the street, selling everything from traditional sweets to handcrafted goods. Aisha, always on the lookout for unique souvenirs, was particularly drawn to a shop selling pearl jewelry. I, on the other hand, found myself fascinated by a store specializing in lucky cat figurines. We wandered through the streets, soaking in the atmosphere and sampling local treats. I couldn't resist trying an Akafuku mochi, a sweet bean paste-covered rice cake that is a local specialty. The blend of history, culture, and commerce made Okage Yokocho a truly memorable experience.

As the day drew to a close, we made our way to Sushi Yutaka Zen for dinner.

Experience authentic sushi at Sushi Yutaka Zen in Shima, where tradition meets exquisite taste in every bite.
This restaurant is known for its exclusive location on the remote island of Mazakijima in Ago Bay. While some say it is accessible only by boat or helicopter, we found convenient access. With only six counter seats, the restaurant offers an intimate and personalized dining experience. The chef, a master of his craft, prepared an Omakase menu featuring the freshest seafood caught in the surrounding waters. Each piece of sushi was a work of art, a testament to the chef's skill and the quality of the ingredients. It was a fitting end to a day filled with culinary delights. Aisha, who usually prefers cooked food, was surprisingly adventurous and enjoyed every bite.

Reflecting on our first day in Ise Shima, I am struck by the region's unique blend of natural beauty and cultural richness. From the panoramic views of Yokoyama Observatory to the immersive experience of dining with Ama divers and the charming streets of Okage Yokocho, every moment was filled with discovery and delight. And of course, the exquisite sushi at Yutaka Zen was the perfect ending. As we head to bed, we are already looking forward to tomorrow's adventures, which include visiting the Kotai Jingu (Ise Jingu Naiku, Inner Sanctuary) and the Futamiokitama Shrine. I'm particularly excited about visiting Ise Kadoya Beer in the evening. Good night from Ise Shima!

I can't wait to see what tomorrow brings, especially our visit to Kotai Jingu (Ise Jingu Naiku, Inner Sanctuary) and Futamiokitama Shrine. And, of course, I'm looking forward to trying some local brews at Ise Kadoya Beer in the evening. Goodnight from Ise Shima!

Reflecting on the day, I realize how much this trip means to me. It's not just about seeing new places, but about connecting with different cultures and creating lasting memories with Aisha. As a software engineer, I spend most of my days immersed in code, but travel allows me to step outside that world and experience the beauty and diversity of our planet. And sharing these experiences through my blog is a way to connect with others who share my passion for travel and to inspire those who may not have the opportunity to travel themselves.