Ise
Japan's most sacred shrines in old forest.
Why Japanese travelers love itA trip to Ise has been a once-in-a-life pilgrimage for centuries, and Akafuku mochi is the reward.
Ise Jingu is the heart of Shinto, made up of many shrines centered on the Outer Shrine (Geku) and the Inner Shrine (Naiku). Plain wooden buildings stand in deep cedar forest, and the mood is quiet and serious. Outside the Inner Shrine, the old Oharaimachi street sells local sweets and Ise udon. Tradition says to visit Geku first, then Naiku.
Best time: Any season; early morning is calmest. New Year is extremely crowded.
Weather
Average temperature, °C. JMA 1991–2020 normals (Obata AMeDAS (JMA), Ise).
Top 5
- Geku (Outer Shrine)Start here, a short walk from Iseshi Station.
- Naiku (Inner Shrine)Cross the Uji Bridge into the forest.
- Oharaimachi and Okage YokochoOld-style streets of food shops by Naiku.
- AkafukuRice cakes with smooth red bean paste, served from early morning.
- Meoto IwaTwo sacred 'wedded rocks' joined by rope at Futami.
A simple day
- Kintetsu limited express from Nagoya.
- Walk to Geku.
- Bus to Naiku, about 25 minutes.
- Lunch in Oharaimachi: Ise udon and Akafuku.
- Meoto Iwa in the afternoon if time allows.
Where to stay
- Iseshi StationEasy for the Outer Shrine and trains.
- Toba or FutamiSeaside ryokan nearby.
Getting there
Nagoya → Iseshi: about 1h20 by Kintetsu limited express. Osaka → Iseshi: about 2h.
psst — skip this mistake: Taking photos of the main sanctuaries beyond the marked point. Photography is not allowed there.