Discover Japan Beyond Tokyo and Osaka: Unveiling a Hidden Gem

Hey everyone, I've stumbled upon a true treasure in Japan! Shima City, an incredibly underrated destination that's breathtakingly beautiful. I just had to share it with you all! 🗓️ Itinerary Day 1: Arrive in Shima City in the morning, take a taxi from the airport to the hotel to check in, and after a short rest, walk to Ago Bay. The bay scenery is stunning, and you can even witness the impressive pearl farming scene. I recommend spending 2-3 hours there. Day 2: Head to Toba Aquarium early in the morning. It boasts a vast array of marine life, and the penguin and dolphin shows are adorable. You can easily spend the entire day here. Day 3: Travel to Kashikojima and take a sightseeing boat tour, admiring the breathtaking scenery along the coastline. This will take about half a day. 🌟 Highlights Ago Bay is an absolute must-visit! It's a renowned pearl-producing area in Japan, and you can see countless pearl rafts scattered across the bay, resembling a forest on the sea. It's a picture-perfect spot. Don't miss the underwater tunnel at Toba Aquarium. The experience of having various marine creatures swim overhead is truly awe-inspiring. The natural scenery of Kashikojima is incredibly therapeutic. Strolling along the coastline, feeling the sea breeze, it's as if all your worries melt away. 🍱 Food Recommendations I highly recommend "Hamachiyo no Ie," located at 1-24 Sakaemachi, Toba City. Their seafood rice bowl is a must-try! Freshly caught fish and shellfish are generously placed on top of fragrant rice. Each bite is an explosion of ocean flavors, so delicious it'll make your taste buds sing. Their grilled pearl oysters are also fantastic – tender and succulent with a hint of salty sea aroma. 🏠 Accommodation Experience I stayed at the "Shima Kanko Hotel," which boasts an excellent location with ocean views right outside the door. The hotel environment is elegant, the rooms are spacious and bright, spotlessly clean, and the beds are incredibly soft and comfortable, guaranteeing a restful night's sleep. The front desk staff speaks English fluently and is happy to help with itinerary planning. It offers exceptional value for money. ⚠️ Important Notes It's best to purchase tickets for Toba Aquarium in advance on the official website, as the queues for on-site tickets can be quite long. Shima City is by the sea, so the wind can be strong. Remember to bring a windbreaker. Also, public transportation in Japan is very punctual, so be sure to check the train schedules in advance to avoid delays. Shima City is full of surprises, from stunning scenery and delicious food to comfortable accommodation. Every aspect is unforgettable. I'm sure you'll fall in love with this place too. Don't hesitate! Add Shima City to your travel list and start planning your trip!