Rising sea temperatures linked to climate change have been gradually transforming the waters around Ago Bay (英虞湾) in Ise-Shima, Mie Prefecture. Tropical fish — once found only in warmer, southern seas — now swim year-round in these waters, and LUXUNA Ise-Shima, a glamping resort located within Ise-Shima National Park, is turning this ecological shift into a new attraction. Starting May 1, 2026, the resort will begin operating a glass-bottom boat, offering guests and day visitors an up-close look at this unexpected underwater world without getting wet.
The "Subtropical-ization" of Ise-Shima's Sea, Reimagined as a Tourist Experience
In recent years, rising water temperatures in Ago Bay have caused significant changes in its marine ecosystem. Colorful tropical fish — known in Japanese as "shimetsu-kaiyū-gyo," fish that drift northward on warm currents but historically could not survive the winter in these cooler waters — are now present throughout the year. This phenomenon, previously unseen in the region, represents a dramatic shift in the local ecology.
Rather than viewing this change purely as an environmental concern, LUXUNA Ise-Shima has reframed it as a way for visitors to witness the ocean's present reality firsthand. The resort, which has already offered experiences such as kayaking and tent sauna to bring guests closer to nature, is now looking beneath the surface.
The glass-bottom boat makes it possible for anyone — from young children to older visitors — to observe the crystal-clear waters of Ago Bay, the scenery of pearl farming, and the newly arrived tropical marine life, all without needing a wetsuit, snorkel, or any preparation.
Three Highlights of the Glass-Bottom Boat Experience
A Floor-to-Ceiling Window on the Underwater World
The boat features a maximized glass surface across the entire floor, allowing passengers to sit back and enjoy a panoramic view of fish schools, coral, and in some areas, pearl farming racks — all distinctly characteristic of Ise-Shima.
No Changing, No Preparation — Just Board and Go
Unlike diving or snorkeling, there is no special equipment or preparation required. Visitors can step aboard in everyday clothes and head straight into the tropical underwater world that has quietly taken hold in Ise-Shima's seas. The experience is suitable for guests of all ages.
Marine Ecosystem Guide Included
A captain accompanies each trip to provide commentary on the marine ecosystem. Beyond sightseeing, the experience also works well as an educational outing for families, offering hands-on learning about the ocean's changing ecology.
Course & Pricing
Route: Departing and returning from Glass-Bottom Boat Ise-Shima, cruising scenic spots within Ago Bay (approximately 45 minutes)
Price: from ¥2,200 per adult
Reservations: Available via the official website, Asoview, and Jalan
About LUXUNA Ise-Shima
Set within Ise-Shima National Park on the shores of Ago Bay, LUXUNA Ise-Shima is a glamping resort offering a range of water and nature-based activities. In addition to the new glass-bottom boat, the resort offers sea kayaking and stand-up paddleboarding. There is also a tent sauna surrounded by tropical plants, where guests can unwind to the sound of waves and ocean breezes.
Both overnight stays and day-use activity-only visits are available, making it accessible for travelers on different schedules.
Access: Approximately 25 minutes by car from Kintetsu "Ugata Station" (free shuttle available from Wagu Ura Fishing Port, reservation required)
