Witness an Oyster Harvest & Interact With Local Oyster Farmers!

Enjoy the captivating world of oyster harvesting in Hiroshima, Japan. Join a guided tour and sail out to the underwater oyster rafts, where you’ll witness the skilled unloading and shucking process firsthand. Gain a deeper appreciation for the intricate details of this age-old practice as you interact with the local oyster farmers and learn about the unique challenges they face. Savor the freshly harvested delicacies and explore the UNESCO World Heritage site Itsukushima Shrine, uncovering the rich cultural heritage of the region. This experience promises to leave you with a newfound respect for the hard work and dedication involved in producing the beloved oyster.

Key Points

• Observe the oyster harvesting process, including the unloading and shucking of oysters, at the Shimada Suisan facility.
• Sail on a work boat to witness the underwater oyster rafts and the intricate details of oyster harvesting.
• Explore the UNESCO World Heritage site Itsukushima Shrine, known for its iconic ‘floating’ torii gate.
• Learn about the role of environmental factors, such as water temperature and salinity, in oyster cultivation.
• Enjoy a customizable experience, including the opportunity to sample freshly shucked or grilled oysters.

Meeting Point and Nearest Stations

The meeting point for the oyster harvesting tour is Shimada Suisan, located at 1 Chome-11 Miyajimaguchinishi, Hatsukaichi, Hiroshima 739-0412, Japan.

Travelers can reach the meeting point by taking the JR Miyajimaguchi Station or the Hiroshima Dentetsu Miyajimaguchi Station. Both stations are conveniently located near the meeting point, making it easy for participants to access the tour.

The tour begins at the Shimada Suisan facility, where visitors will have the opportunity to witness the oyster harvesting process firsthand, from sailing on a work boat to observing the oysters being unloaded and shucked.

The tour also includes a visit to the UNESCO World Heritage site, Itsukushima Shrine, providing a well-rounded experience for participants.

Oyster Harvesting Process and Highlights

Participants on the oyster harvesting tour will witness the full process, from sailing on a work boat to observing the oysters being unloaded and shucked at Shimada Suisan’s oyster factory. They’ll have the chance to learn about the intricate details of oyster harvesting, gaining a deeper appreciation for the hard work and care that goes into this industry.

The tour highlights include:

Activity	Description
Sailing on a Work Boat	Venture out on the water to see the oyster rafts up close
Observing Oyster Unloading	Watch as the oysters are carefully unloaded from the boats
Oyster Shucking Demonstration	See the skilled technique of shucking oysters at the factory

This hands-on experience provides a unique opportunity to interact with local oyster farmers and learn about the sustainable practices that have been passed down for generations.

UNESCO World Heritage Site Visit

As part of the oyster harvesting tour, you will have the opportunity to visit the UNESCO World Heritage site Itsukushima Shrine, a renowned Japanese landmark steeped in centuries of history and cultural significance.

This iconic Shinto shrine, built partially over the waters of the Seto Inland Sea, is known for its iconic ‘floating’ torii gate that appears to rise majestically from the sea.

Visitors can explore the shrine’s stunning architecture, learn about its history and spiritual importance, and witness traditional rituals and ceremonies.

This unique chance to combine an immersive oyster farming experience with a visit to a world-famous historical site makes for a truly memorable and enriching cultural encounter.

Learning About Oyster Harvesting

Oyster farmers’ meticulous techniques unveil the intricate process of cultivating these succulent bivalves, from meticulously tending to the oyster rafts to the delicate art of shucking.

Participants will witness the full harvest cycle, including:

• Sailing on a work boat to observe the underwater oyster rafts
• Watching as the oysters are carefully unloaded and transported to the factory
• Seeing the skilled shuckers expertly open the oysters, revealing their plump, glistening flesh

Learning about the crucial role water temperature, salinity, and currents play in producing the perfect oyster.

Gaining an appreciation for the dedication and hard work required to bring these delicacies to the table.

Flexible Experience and Dining Options

Alongside the immersive oyster harvesting experience, participants can choose to stop and savor the freshly shucked delicacies right on the spot, allowing for a flexible and customizable tour. Whether you’re craving a light snack or a more substantial meal, the tour offers ample opportunities to indulge in the local oyster bounty.

Dining Options	Description
Oyster Tasting	Sample a variety of freshly shucked oysters
Grilled Oysters	Enjoy oysters cooked over a hot grill
Oyster Donburi	Indulge in a traditional Japanese rice bowl with oysters

The flexibility of the tour ensures that each participant can tailor the experience to their personal preferences, making it a truly memorable and satisfying adventure.

Inclusions, Exclusions, and Life Jacket

The tour fee includes a life jacket for safety, though English-language guidance isn’t provided, as the experience is only available in Japanese.

This immersive, hands-on tour offers a unique opportunity to witness the traditional oyster harvesting process firsthand. While not all details may be accessible to non-Japanese speakers, the visual experience is sure to be captivating.

• Witness the harvesting of oysters, from sailing on a work boat to observing the oyster rafts
• See oysters being unloaded and shucked at the Shimada Suisan oyster factory
• Visit the UNESCO World Heritage site Itsukushima Shrine
• Learn about the oyster harvesting process from the local experts
• Enjoy the flexibility to stop and savor the fresh oysters (not included in tour fee)

Tour Schedule and Restrictions

Timing and group size restrictions govern this immersive oyster harvesting tour, which runs from October through April each year, with a maximum of 15 travelers.

The tour kicks off bright and early at 7:00 AM, so participants should be prepared to start their day on the water.

Due to the nature of the activity, the tour isn’t suitable for preschoolers.

Guests will also want to dress appropriately, as the landing pier and boat deck can be quite slippery.

It’s worth noting that the boat doesn’t have a cabin or restroom, so plan accordingly.

Booking and Cancellation Policy

How does the booking and cancellation policy work for this oyster harvesting tour?

Travelers can expect confirmation within 48 hours of booking, subject to availability.

The tour is non-refundable, and no changes are allowed once booked.

If the tour is canceled due to weather or other circumstances, you will be notified by email by 5:00 pm the day before the scheduled tour.

When booking this unique experience, keep these key points in mind:

• Confirmation within 48 hours, subject to availability
• Non-refundable, no changes allowed
• Cancellations due to weather or other circumstances
• Notification by email by 5:00 pm the day before the tour
• Limited to 15 travelers

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Bring My Own Food and Drinks on the Tour?

No, participants cannot bring their own food and drinks on the tour. The tour is focused on witnessing the oyster harvesting process, and outside food and drinks are not permitted. Participants will have the opportunity to purchase and sample oysters during the tour.

Is the Tour Wheelchair Accessible?

The tour is not wheelchair accessible. The landing pier and boat deck are described as slippery, and the boat does not have a cabin or restroom, making it difficult for wheelchair users to participate.

Can I Take Photos or Videos During the Tour?

Guests are welcome to take photos and videos throughout the tour, though the guide advises against using flash photography around the oyster rafts. Capturing the harvesting process and interactions with local farmers makes for great souvenirs.

Are There Any Age Restrictions for the Tour?

The tour has a minimum age requirement – preschoolers cannot join. Children of all other ages are welcome, though the experience may not be suitable for very young kids due to the slippery conditions on the boat and pier.

Do I Need to Bring Any Specific Gear or Equipment?

The tour recommends wearing appropriate clothing and shoes, as the landing pier and boat deck can be slippery. Participants should also bring a life jacket, which is provided as part of the tour.

Recap

Immersing oneself in the traditional oyster harvesting process provides a unique opportunity to gain a deeper appreciation for the dedication and expertise required to produce this delectable seafood.

Visitors can witness the intricate details of this age-old practice, savor the freshly shucked oysters, and explore the rich cultural heritage of Hiroshima, Japan, leaving with a newfound respect for the hard work and care involved in the oyster industry.