Daiō, Mie
Daiō (大王) is a town located in Shima District, Mie Prefecture, Japan. It's situated on the southeastern coast of Mie Prefecture, facing the Pacific Ocean. Historically, the area was known for its fishing industry, particularly for its ama divers (female free divers) who harvest seafood.
Daiō became part of the city of Shima on October 1, 2004, as a result of a merger with the towns of Ago, Hamajima, and Shima. Before the merger, it was an independent town.
Key features of Daiō include:
- Coastal Scenery: The town boasts rugged coastline with scenic views of the Pacific Ocean and numerous small islands.
- Ama Divers: Daiō is recognized for its traditional ama divers, a cultural practice dating back centuries. While their numbers have declined, they remain a symbol of the region.
- Fishing Industry: Fishing continues to be an important part of the local economy.
- Tourism: The area attracts tourists interested in its natural beauty, traditional culture, and seafood.