Enjoy a delicious meal while chatting with real active Ama divers! The freshly grilled seafood served straight off the net by the Ama divers is absolutely delicious. Why not come and experience authentic, living Japanese culture firsthand?
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The Highlight
Who are the Ama?: Cheerful female free-divers said to have a tradition spanning 3,000 years tradition of breath-hold diving.
The Ama Hut Experience: Savor charcoal-grilled seafood while chatting with active Ama divers.
- Supporting Local Culture: A sustainable experience directly supporting local divers and traditional culture.
The Experience
What is an Ama Hut Experience?
At the ama hut, the ama bring their deep connection with the sea to life.
Guests are treated to an extraordinary meal of freshly caught seafood, including succulent Ise-ebi lobster, abalone, plump scallops, and grilled octopus, all expertly prepared over a charcoal grill. The rich, smoky flavors are complemented by the natural beauty of the coastal setting, creating an unforgettable experience that offers a deep appreciation for the ocean and the traditions of the Ama divers.
【Menu】 Basic Menu: Dried Horse Mackerel, 2 Types of Seasonal Shellfish, Scallop, Overnight-Dried Squid, Miso Soup with Rice Cake, Sea Urchin Rice Market Price Add-ons: Spiny Lobster, Abalone
By visiting the Amagoya, ama can supplement their diving incomes, and the locally caught seafood supports the ama and fishermen alike. It's a delicious celebration of the sea, a tribute to local culture, and an experience that leaves a memorable mark on all who visit.
Who are the Ama?
The Ise-Shima region faces the beautiful Pacific Ocean. People here still use marine products similar to long ago, and today, about 500 ama still live and work in the area. The average age is around 70, with the oldest ama well into their 80s. Ama have a reputation for being very strong, hardworking, and cheerful. Their ability to support their families through diving has become legendary throughout the country.
When the ama dive, they use a special breathing technique that makes a unique whistling sound. The whistle is called Iso-bue in Japanese. It helps ama control their breathing after consecutive dives, preventing damage to the heart and lungs. The ama's whistle is one of the 100 Views and Sounds of Japan.
The oldest record of ama is in a story written in 10th century. Understandably, people living on an island dove to gather food from the sea, and ancient shell mounds found all around Japan indicate this livelihood.
Ama love the sea, live with the sea, and give thanks to the sea, so they follow their own rules by not using diving apparatuses to deter the overfishing of marine products.
Guide Services
Languages Spoken by Guides
- English
- Japanese
Itinerary
- 11:30 / 13:30 – Head to the Ama Hut (approx. 25 min by taxi or 45 min by Kamome Bus from Toba Station)
- Seafood Grilled by Ama Divers Active Ama divers in traditional white diving wear will grill fresh seafood right before your eyes.
- Interact with the Ama Divers Enjoy chatting with the wonderfully bright and energetic divers—their cheerful spirit is truly uplifting!
- Photo Op in Traditional Ama Attire Put on traditional Ama clothing and take a memorable photo with the divers to wrap up your experience.
- Dismissal on Site
Price Details
How to Use
- Voucher will be sent via email. Please show your e-voucher at designated location.
Purchase Notice
Choice of 2 Lunch Venues: You can choose from two Ama Huts. (Note: If "Ozegosan" is booked and there is bad weather, the location may change to "Mae-no-hama.")
No Transportation Included: You will need to make your own way to the Ama Hut. (Transfer quotes available upon request.)
Seasonal Menu: Menu items may vary depending on the season.
Market Price Add-ons: Spiny Lobster, Abalone
Important Booking Information
- If "Ozegosan" is booked and there is bad weather, the location may change to "Mae-no-hama."
Food is grilled over an open charcoal fire, so please wear clothes you don't mind getting a smoky scent on.
No Transportation Included: If you would like transportation, please request it when making your reservation.
English support is available upon request only. However, English display panels and printed English scripts are available.
Cancellation Policy
- Cancellation made at least 4 day(s) before departure date, Fully refundable (100% refund)
- Cancel during 0 ~ 3 day(s) of departure, Non-refundable (0% refund)