Where Ancient Tradition Meets Modern Travel: Amanemu, Ise Shima

Named after the Sanskrit word for ‘peace’ and ‘nemu’ meaning joy in Japanese, Amanemu is located in the heart of Ise Shima National Park, making it a sanctuary for escapism from the everyday hustle of Japan’s major cities.

The connection to nature and genuine celebration of local culture are what sets Amanemu apart. The proximity to the Ago Bay is felt at every step of the journey, from panoramic poolside views, to fresh seafood and historic pearl diving culture. Ancient rituals are combined with contemporary Japanese design, all surrounded by sacred forests and Unesco Pilgrimage Trails, inspiring an experience like no other.

Any trip to an Aman property is a cultural education, and Amanemu is no different. Known as the ‘Bay of Pearls’, the Ago Bay is home to pearl diving culture dating back over 3000 years, and during my visit I was fortunate to meet one of the area’s last remaining Ama Divers. Once known as the ‘pearl-diving mermaids of Japan’, the Ama (海女) literally translating to ‘sea women’, are famous for collecting and sustainably farming oyster pearls, and hand-catching some of the freshest seafood from the bay. One of Japan’s many dying trades, this is a truly unique way to experience some of the area’s historic culture.

Getting Around

Amanemu is easily accessible by car from Honshu’s major transport hubs including Nagoya, Kyoto and Osaka. Local station Kashikojima is a 20-minute drive from the hotel, and Nagoya Chubu International Airport is the closest hub, at around a three-hour drive away. Once at the resort, on-site golf buggies are readily available to transport you between each of the pavilions and facilities.

Local Landmarks

Take advantage of surrounding attractions including Japan’s most sacred shrine, Ise Jingu, or the world-famous Unesco Kumano Kodo Pilgrimage Trail. A little closer to the resort is an 18-hole championship golf course, Ama Diver pearl rafts, and the Yokoyama Observatory Deck for a change in perspective over the Ago Bay.

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