Ise
Japan · Mie · 10 m
Description
Ise (伊勢市) in Mie Prefecture is one of Japan’s most important spiritual centers and is regarded as the heart of Shinto. The city is best known for the revered Ise Jingu, a vast complex of 125 shrines whose principal sanctuaries are dedicated to the sun goddess Amaterasu and the deity Toyouke. Ise combines centuries-old traditions, including the Shikinen Sengu rebuilding ritual held every 20 years, with tranquil forests, traditional architecture, and a living pilgrimage culture. Around Oharaimachi and Okage Yokocho, historic wooden buildings, traditional shops, and local specialties such as Akafuku rice cakes and Ise-ebi lobster create a nostalgic atmosphere. As the spiritual home of Japan’s Imperial Family, Ise offers a unique insight into the country’s religious traditions and cultural heritage.
Length of stay
Recommended length of stay: 1 to 2 days (optimal 1 day)
Travel season
Best time to visit: March – May or October – November
- Jan
- Feb
- Mar
- Apr
- May
- Jun
- Jul
- Aug
- Sep
- Oct
- Nov
- Dec
Highlights
- Ise Jingu Naiku (Inner Shrine)
- Oharaimachi & Okage Yokocho
- Ise Jingu Geku (Outer Shrine)
- Uji Bridge at Naiku
- Isuzugawa River & Mitarashi purification site
- Sengukan Museum
- Shikinen Sengu shrine rebuilding tradition
- Tsukiyomi-no-miya Shrine
- Sarutahiko Shrine
- Asama-yama & Kongoshoji Temple
- Ise-Shima Skyline & Asama-yama viewpoints
- Ise udon
- Akafuku rice cakes
- Ise-ebi spiny lobster
- Meoto Iwa (Wedded Rocks) & Futami Okitama Shrine
- Hinjitsukan
- Ise Sea Paradise
- Ise-Shima National Park
- Toba & Mikimoto Pearl Island(Day trip)
- Toba Aquarium(Day trip)
Getting there
- Train stations:
- Ise-shi