Ise

As it is a place of admiration, don't be surprised that most buildings are closed to the public. Like the Naiku Shrine, accessible only to the Emperor and a few elder statesmen Shinto priests. The exteriors of the site offer a pleasant view for a walk in the heart of the city, and many events take place throughout the year in the enclosure of Ise-jingu. Like the Kagura, sacred dances are performed in honor of pilgrims to protect them.

Don't forget to visit the Sengukan Museum nearby. Accessible to all, it holds the secrets of more than 1000 years of preservation!

While the Naiku is the main inner shrine of Ise-Jingu, the outer shrine is known as the “Geku.” Up to the Geku is a special shopping street with great spots for souvenirs and other goods. Exploring the Geku entails a leisurely stroll around the shrine paths. Relax and take in the rich nature and spirituality of Ise Jingu. Going to the nearest station is easily done by foot, taxi, or local bus. Don't forget to visit the Sengukan Museum, nearby, which presents extensive information about the shrine, its history, and practices.

The nature-rich lands of Ise

Enveloping much of the land around the city and central Ise-Jingu Grand Shrine are the lush forests of Ise. About 5,500 hectares of forest make up the grounds of the surrounding area, about a whole third of the city’s total landmass. In fact, the previously mentioned Naiku and Geku are situated within the pristine forests. The prefecture of Mie as a whole has a rich history of forestry and woodcraft derived from its surroundings. 

Ise is also famous for its rich coastal scenery, which can be seen at Ise Bay. The bay is well-seen from observation locations nearby the city. The waters around Ise have also been instrumental to the development of the area, presenting a bounty of delicious fish and seafood, rich land for rice crops, and industries such as pearl-farming. Bear witness to the gorgeous waters that define Ise City and the Kii Peninsula. There are even ferries that provide on-water tours for visitors to see the natural beauty of the bay.

Ise City is a treasure trove for those looking for unique crafts utilizing traditional techniques, often made in small numbers and meticulously made by hand. 

As previously mentioned, the rich woods of the area have provided Ise with quality lumber to be used for woodworking. A signature of the area is “Ise Shunkei,” the form of lacquerware that is created in the area. Traditionally made with local cypress wood (known as hinoki in Japanese), Ise Shunkei is notable for its rich color and high quality and is simultaneously intended to be used on an everyday basis. As the lacquerware is consistently used throughout the years, it develops a one-of-a-kind patina. 

Another storied woodworking craft in Ise is that of Itto-obori sculpting. This is a form of sculpting that is chiseled by hand, derived from the city’s roots, and developed by shrine carpenters who would restore Ise Jingu once every 20 years throughout the centuries. Smaller crafts serve as great souvenirs for the goods, often used as home decor. 

Likely the most internationally recognized craft to come out of Ise is that of pearls, as the farm cultivation of pearls originated here by Koichi Mikimoto at the end of the 19th century. Mikimoto is a name many may recognize, as it is the most reputable name in luxury pearl jewelry. The original island that the cultivation process was developed on stands as an attraction, complete with a dedicated museum. Pearls here were initially gathered by the aforementioned ama divers, whose work set the foundation for Mikimoto’s farming process.  Fashion and jewelry enthusiasts ought to visit the island and commemorate the genesis of one of the most recognized names in the industry and see the continued art of pearl cultivation in action.

The culinary specialties of Ise 

Additionally, Ise is the third-largest tea producer in the country, where tea and wagashi are favorite snacks. Akafuku, a mochi stuffed with red bean paste, was invented in one of the city's tea houses in the 18th century.

In addition to its restaurants, cafes, and stalls, Okage-Yokocho has many souvenir shops. Homemade honey, pottery, and lucky charms highlight the craftsmanship of Ise!

During the first of the month, Tsuitachi Mairi (the first monthly pilgrimage), stores open very early to offer new things to the brave who come to Oharai-machi after their return from Ise-jingu.

The best places to eat in Ise

Akafuku Honten : Akafuku specialist
Address : 26 Ujinakanokiri-cho, Ise-shi, Mie-ken
Hours: from 5 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Ebiya: in abalone for several generations
Address: 13 Ujiimazaike-cho, Ise-shi, Mie-ken
Hours: 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Oiseya Honpo: famous for Matsusaka beef
Address: 94-7 Ujinakanokiri-cho, Ise-shi, Mie-ken
Hours: 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. (be careful, the hours change regularly)

Iseman Naiku Mae Japanese Sake Factory: the only distillery in Ise, you can find amazake, yuzu sake, and plum sake.
Address : Okage Yokocho, 77-2 Ujinakanokiri-cho, Ise-shi, Mie-ken
Hours: 9:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. (times may vary regularly)

Futami Onsen is one of the most significant locations regarding Japan’s traditional spirituality and history, and being able to witness such while indulging in top-tier comfort and accommodation makes it one of the most eclectic destinations in all of Japan. 

Shima Peninsula places to visit near Ise

The south of the peninsula is remote, tranquil, and more photogenic, as the picturesque jagged coasts offer a superb panoramic view of the 60 islands of Ago Bay and the pearl fishing boats, while Goza is a small fishing port, a stone's throw from a wide white sandy beach (Goza-shirahama).

See more of Ise and Shima Peninsula below: