After getting off at Kashikojima station, you can walk less than 5 minutes to a dock.
From that dock you can join an array of short cruises around the islands.
The one I used was modeled after one of Columbus’ famous ships.
It was approximately 50 minutes long and included a tour of a pear diving museum and shop.
The area is known for pearls, boasting the Mikimoto company, and a history of Ama. Ama are the female pearl divers that were kniwn for being able to hold their breath for a long time and swiming bare-breasted.
The cruise itself was alright and best enjoyed on one of the outdoor decks, as the ship wasn’t air conditioned.
You can also purchase light snacks and drinks, though like the one in Osaka, leave a lot to be desired. However, the old woman attending the shop was exceptionally sweet.
Since it was obscenly hot that day, I spent most of the trip on the covered aft deck, with a few other people. I was also one of the few people who thought to bring a fan.
I did enjoy the short museum tour amd demonstration though. They explained how cultured pearls are made and even seeded an oyster in front of us. It’s a little bit cruel really.
After that, we boarded the boat to return to the boarding point nearest to the station.
We passed a few islands, but the return trip wasn’t very eventful. Once we disembarked, most of the little shops were already closed.
So, I went back to the station, bought a few snacks, and got on a train headed back to Nagoya.
Renmi's World 