Toba Private Customizable Half Day Tour
Active
4h
All sales are final. No refund is available for cancellations.
Instant_then_manual confirmation
Mobile or paper ticket accepted
About this experience
This private and customizable tour for Toba city (in Mie Prefecture) is perfect for guests who would like to have their own itinerary planned based on their interests and preferences, allowing guests to experience the city at their own pace.
Discover 2-3 attractions in Toba City at your own pace on this fully customizable 4-hour half day private tour with an English-speaking (or other language) tour guide. Create a dream tour that’s perfect for your interests and preferences.
After booking, you'll receive a form with varied themes, allowing easy selection based on your interests. Whether it's culture, history, cuisine, nature, or special events, you can highlight your preferences and must-see spots, streamlining our planning process.
Available options
Private: 1 Driver + 1 Guide
Duration: 4 hours<br/>Private Vehicle: This tour includes private chartered vehicle (1 driver) with a tour expert (1 tour guide). All transportation costs included.
Public Transport
Bus, Train or other: This tour includes public transportation costs with your tour expert (1 tour guide only). All transportation costs included.
What's included
Hotel pickup and drop-off (if the hotel is within city center)
4-hour fully customized tour with reservations and bookings made on your behalf
Choose 2 to 3 sites for a personalized tour of Toba
English-speaking professional tour guide
Transportation within the city only
Detailed itinerary
1
Upon confirmation of your booking, you will be provided with a dedicated Tour Form containing key city highlights and essential information for your tour. Through this form, you can specify any attractions you wish to visit and share additional preferences. We will carefully review your input to craft an itinerary uniquely suited to your interests
2
A small island in Ise Bay, offshore Toba, Mie Prefecture, Japan. The island is known as the birthplace of cultured pearl aquaculture
3
The Futami Okitama shrine is related to the Shinto deity Sarutahiko of Meotoiwa, and the Okitama holy rocks are worshipped here. It is said that marriages and matrimonial happiness are connected to this shrine, and it is known as a spot for purification for those on an Ise pilgrimage. It is custom for those who are on said pilgrimage to worship here before heading to the main Ise temple.
4
This observation area features a shop, an eatery & footbaths overlooking Ise Bay.
5
Toba Bay is famed for its stunning scenery, thriving pearl industry, and rich marine life. Visitors enjoy pearl farm tours, fresh seafood, and leisurely coastal activities amidst its picturesque shores.
What's not included
Gratuities (optional)
Meals, food and drinks not specified
Fees for optional tours and activities for guests and tour guide
Available languages
Guide guide
JA
EN
Important information
Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap
Public transportation options are available nearby
Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
Wheelchair accessible
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Moderate Cancellation Policy:
We will charge a cancellation fee of 100% if booking is cancelled 14 days or less before event
We will charge a cancellation fee of 50% if booking is cancelled 21 days or less before event
We will charge a cancellation fee of 25% if booking is cancelled 30 days or less before event
PLEASE FILL OUT THE TOUR FORM:
After your booking, you will receive a link to the Toba Form (within 48 hours) that asks for pertinent information required for this booking. Please ensure that this Toba Form is completed accurately at least 7 days before your tour date
Every city in Japan has a lot to offer. There are many aspects to the city and many hidden and local spots that you may not have seen or heard of before. In the Custom Tour form that will be sent to you after your booking, you’ll be able to let us know of any attractions you have already visited and would not like to see again on this tour. We will carefully review your requests and will create an itinerary based on your preferences
If you cancel the tour any time after we have sent you the custom Itinerary, the service fee of 15% of your total tour cost will be nonrefundable
Japan Awaits is a licensed tour operator in Japan, with hundreds of registered and vetted tour guides nationwide. We offer tours in any location in Japan and manage all details, including transportation and tickets. Visit Japan Awaits to learn more about our tours or inquire about a custom experience today
Mode of transportation: Transportation within the city only (either public transportation or private vehicle, based on your booking)
Custom Itinerary:
Organizing and planning a trip requires a lot of time, and if we have made reservations on your behalf, it may be challenging to cancel some booking requests. Once we receive your booking and responses from the Custom Tour form, we’ll begin creating your itinerary and organizing the necessary arrangements for your tour
How far in advance should I book?
Preparing a customized tour takes time, especially if restaurant or venue reservations are needed. We recommend booking as early as possible—ideally 3 months in advance, or at least 1 month before your travel date. For requests made within 7 days of travel, we may not be able to arrange the tour in time, and your booking request may be canceled with a full refund
What if I'm late?
We ask that all guests arrive at the location at least 10 minutes before the designated meet-up time
Guests are provided with the tour guides’ phone number before the tour and you can call the tour guide if you need help
Although this is a private tour, the tour guide will only wait for you for up to 30 minutes of start time before the tour is cancelled
Attire: Please dress appropriately for all weather conditions
Passports may be required to verify age on the day of the tour
Children that are age 12 and under must be accompanied by an adult that is age 18 or older
Meeting point
If guests are already in Toba City, the tour guide will pick up the guest at their hotel (if it's within the city center). If not, pick-up location will be provided to the guest before the tour date (the pick-up location will likely be at a convenient location, such as a train station).
About Toba
Toba is a charming coastal city in Mie Prefecture, known for its stunning views of Ise Bay and rich pearl farming heritage. It offers a blend of natural beauty, cultural experiences, and unique local cuisine, making it a captivating destination for travelers.
Top Attractions
Toba Aquarium
One of the largest aquariums in Japan, featuring a wide variety of marine life, including dolphins, penguins, and tropical fish. The aquarium is known for its innovative exhibits and educational programs.
Nature
2 to 3 hours
Moderate (2000 JPY)
Ago Bay
A stunning bay known for its clear waters, scenic views, and traditional pearl farming culture. Visitors can take boat tours to explore the bay and its numerous islands.
Nature
Half-day
Budget to Moderate (1000 to 3000 JPY)
Toba Mikimoto Pearl Island
A museum and cultural center dedicated to the history of pearl cultivation, founded by Kokichi Mikimoto, the father of the cultured pearl industry. The island offers exhibits, a museum, and a pearl shop.
Historical
1 to 2 hours
Budget (500 JPY for museum entry)
Shima Spain Village
A Spanish-themed amusement park featuring rides, shows, and a variety of dining options. The park is known for its unique architecture and vibrant atmosphere.
Entertainment
Full-day
Moderate to Expensive (4000 to 6000 JPY)
Ise Jingu
One of Japan's most sacred Shinto shrines, dedicated to the sun goddess Amaterasu. The complex consists of two main shrines, Naikū and Gekū, surrounded by lush forests and traditional architecture.
Religious
Half-day
Free (donations welcome)
Must-Try Local Dishes
Ise-Udon
Thick, chewy noodles served in a savory broth, often topped with tempura or seafood. Ise-Udon is a local specialty with a rich, flavorful taste.
Dish
Vegetarian options available (ask for no meat or seafood)
Toba Sushi
Fresh sushi made with locally sourced seafood, including tuna, mackerel, and shrimp. Toba is known for its high-quality sushi due to its proximity to the ocean.
Dish
Contains fish and shellfish
Ago Bay Pearl Oysters
Fresh oysters harvested from Ago Bay, known for their sweet and briny flavor. They can be enjoyed grilled, fried, or raw.
Dish
Contains shellfish
Miso-Katsu
A deep-fried pork cutlet topped with a sweet and savory miso sauce. This dish is a local favorite and a must-try for meat lovers.
Dish
Contains pork, gluten (soy sauce and flour)
Popular Activities
Hiking in Kumano Kodo
Boat tours in Ago Bay
Water sports in Shichiri Beach
Sunbathing and swimming in Shichiri Beach
Exploring Toba Shopping Arcade
Dining at local restaurants and cafes
Visiting Ise Jingu
Exploring Toba Mikimoto Pearl Island
Best Time to Visit
April to November
This period offers pleasant weather for outdoor activities and sightseeing. Spring (April to May) is particularly beautiful with cherry blossoms, while autumn (October to November) offers comfortable temperatures and vibrant foliage.
15°C to 32°C
59°F to 90°F
Practical Information
Language
- Official: Japanese
- Widely spoken: English (limited)
- English: Limited
Currency
Japanese Yen (JPY)
Time Zone
GMT+9
Electricity
100VV, 50/60HzHz
Safety Information
Overall Safety Rating: Very safe
Toba is a very safe destination for travelers, with low crime rates and a welcoming atmosphere. However, it's always important to exercise common sense and take precautions to ensure a safe and enjoyable trip.
Important Precautions:
- • Use licensed taxis and agree on the fare before starting your journey
- • Keep valuables secure and be cautious in crowded areas
- • Research and book tours or activities through reputable companies
Getting there
By air
- Chubu Centrair International Airport • 35 km from Toba
By train
Toba Station
By bus
Toba Bus Terminal
Getting around
Public transport
The bus system is the primary mode of public transportation in Toba. Buses are reliable and cover most tourist attractions.
Taxis
Available • Apps: JapanTaxi
Rentals
Car, Bike, Scooter
Neighborhoods
Toba City Center
Shichiri Beach
Ago Bay
Day trips
Ise Jingu
20 km from Toba • Half-day to full-day
Ise Jingu is one of Japan's most sacred Shinto shrines, dedicated to the sun goddess Amaterasu. The complex consists of two main shrines, Naikū and Gekū, surrounded by lush forests and traditional architecture.
Shima Spain Village
15 km from Toba • Full-day
A Spanish-themed amusement park featuring rides, shows, and a variety of dining options. The park is known for its unique architecture and vibrant atmosphere.
Kumano Kodo
50 km from Toba • Full-day to overnight
A network of ancient pilgrimage trails leading to the Kumano Sanzan shrines. The trails offer stunning natural scenery, historic sites, and a chance to experience Japan's spiritual heritage.
Festivals
Toba Pearl Festival • August
Ise Daijingu Kinenai • October 15
Shima Spain Village Christmas Illuminations • November to January
Pro tips
- Visit Toba during the spring (April to May) or autumn (October to November) for pleasant weather and fewer crowds
- Purchase a Toba City Tourist Pass for discounted entry to popular attractions and unlimited bus rides
- Try local specialties such as Ise-Udon, Toba Sushi, and Ago Bay oysters for an authentic culinary experience
- Explore the city's shopping arcades and markets for unique souvenirs and traditional crafts
- Take a boat tour of Ago Bay to learn about the area's pearl farming heritage and enjoy stunning views of the coastline
From $25
per person
Price varies by option
Secure booking
Free cancellation available
