Ago Bay

Ago Bay (英虞湾, Agowan), located at the southern tip of the Shima Peninsula, is renowned for its calm, island-dotted waters and deep-rooted pearl-cultivating heritage. This scenic bay is where Mikimoto Kokichi successfully cultivated pearls for the first time in 1893—an achievement that turned the area into the heart of Japan’s pearl industry. The tranquil waters still host floating pearl farms today, adding cultural depth to the breathtaking landscape. One of the best ways to admire the bay’s beauty is by taking a one-hour sightseeing cruise aboard a pirate-style ship. These cruises offer both standard seating and premium cabins with elegant interiors for a more refined experience.

Cruises depart from Kashikojima, the main access point to the bay and a convenient hub for travelers. The Kintetsu Railway’s Kashikojima Station and the boat piers are just a short walk apart, making the area easy to explore on foot. For panoramic views, the Yokoyama Observation Deck offers one of the region’s most stunning vistas. Situated 200 meters above sea level, it overlooks Ago Bay’s intricate coastline and scattered islets. The viewpoint can be reached in about 30–45 minutes on foot from Shima-Yokoyama Station, or more comfortably by taxi—an ideal stop for nature lovers and photographers alike.