Traditional Salt-Making Experience in Minami-Ise

(700-Year-Old Craft)

Traditional Salt-Making Experience in Minami-Ise

Seawater drawn from 40 meters below the ocean becomes salt in your own hands.
More than just an activity, this is a moment where nature and people connect.

Using seawater from Minami-Ise, you will experience traditional salt-making methods.
Light a fire with wood, boil seawater in a traditional iron pot, and observe the crystallization process.

While learning each step, you will participate in part of the salt-making process yourself.


Salt has been produced in Minami-Ise for over 700 years.
The unique geography—where mountains and ocean are close together—creates mineral-rich seawater,
which has supported this traditional craft for generations.

In this region, fishermen (Uragata) and salt makers (Kamagata) once lived side by side,
trading fish and salt as part of their daily lives.
Salt was so valuable that it was even used as a form of rent.

This experience allows you to explore that history firsthand,
as you create salt using the natural elements of sea, mountain, and fire.


Highlights

  • Experience how salt is made from seawater

  • Traditional wood-fired boiling process

  • Explanation by a local craftsman

  • Take home the salt you made

  • Learn the connection between nature, history, and daily life

Basic Information

Price: ¥20,000/person

  • +¥6200 / additional guest

  • Children under 12 receive a 50% discount


Duration: Approx. 2–3 hours
Start Times:

  • Morning session: 10:00 – 12:00

  • Afternoon session: 13:00 – 15:00

Season: Year-round


Group size: 1–8 people
Participants: Open to most guests (please consult in advance if special assistance is required)


Included

  • Experience fee

  • Guidance by a local craftsman

  • Salt-making materials and tools

  • Salt to take home

  • Local Guide (English/Japanese)

  • Contribution to environmental conservation (a portion of the proceeds supports efforts to preserve the ocean and natural environment of Minami-Ise)

What to Bring

  • Drinks


Standard Tour

(Example: Morning Session)

10:00 Meet & check-in

10:10 Introduction to salt-making

10:45 Observation of the salt making facility

11:00 Finishing process experience

11:30 Completion & tasting

12:00 Finish

Afternoon session follows the same flow starting at 13:00



Options

  • Local lunch

  • Combination with other experiences (tuna, koji, etc.)

  • Transportation arrangement

  • Accommodation arrangement


ギャラリーの写真を入れたい


Recommended For

  • Those interested in Japanese traditional culture

  • Food enthusiasts

  • Travelers seeking nature-based experiences

Notes

  • As fire is used, please follow all instructions from staff

  • The experience may be adjusted depending on weather conditions

  • Smoke and odors may transfer to clothing

  • For safety and smooth operation, an interpreter guide will be arranged for guests who require non-Japanese language support. 

Cancellation Policy

7 days or more before: Free
6–2 days before: 30%
1 day before or same day: 100%

Contact Us

Minamiise Japan(umibenoie)

944-15,Gokasyoura,Minamiise-cho,Watarai-gun,Mie

minamiise.japan@gmail.com

@minamiise.japan