2025.12 The Sacred Land of Ise and the Beautiful Sea: A Memorable Journey Through Mie to Delight the Five Senses [PR]
Feel the Sacred Atmosphere and Lively Energy at Ise-Jingu Shrine and Oharaimachi/Okage Yokocho
With a history stretching back two millennia, Ise-Jingu Shrine’s Kotaijingu (commonly known as Naiku) holds a special place in the spiritual life of Japan. Crossing Ujibashi Bridge over the Isuzu River, the bustle of everyday life slowly fades, giving way to a sacred world filled with the breeze and dappled sunlight. The crunch of pebbles underfoot, the songs of birds, the murmur of the Isuzu River—it feels as if each sound is quietly purifying the heart. As you cleanse your hands in the river’s clear stream and look upon the trees reflected on its surface, even the flow of time seems to soften.
After your visit to the shrine, head to Oharaimachi and its Okage Yokocho district. There you can enjoy local specialties from different kinds of mochi rice cakes to Ise udon noodles, or indulge in shopping. Smiles fill the streets lined with wooden lattice houses, creating a moment unique to Ise, where the presence of the divine meets the warmth of the people.
Pray for Blessings Amid Stunning Scenery at Futami-Okitama Shrine and the Meoto Iwa
Standing along the coast of Ise, Futami-Okitama Shrine is a sacred site where visitors had purified themselves before worshipping at Ise-Jingu Shrine. Amid the sea breeze and the sound of waves, the iconic Meoto Iwa (wedded rocks) stand, as if paying homage toward the sacred stone Okitama Shinseki resting offshore. The 9-meter-tall Otoko-iwa (male rock) and the 4-meter-tall Onna-iwa (female rock) are bound together with thick shimenawa sacred ropes, their close proximity evoking the image of an everlasting bond. From May to July, the sunrise appears between the two rocks, bathing the sea in golden light—a breathtaking sight. As you walk through the shrine grounds, you’ll notice Futami Frogs scattered about, divine messengers believed to bring back good fortune once again to those who encounter them. They leave a gentle smile in the hearts of visitors.
Relax with Toba’s Seaside Views and Gourmet Delights at Shiojitei and Toba Hotel International
Following the scent of the sea brings you to the shores of Toba, where Shiojitei stands as a tranquil retreat that gently embraces the sacred afterglow of Ise-Jingu and Futami-Okitama Shrines. In spaces imbued with the warmth of wood and traditional Japanese design, the spirit of Japanese hospitality flows in every detail. In the special room with an open outdoor bath, guests can soak while gazing upon the garden, unraveling a sense of relaxation that seems to reach deep within the heart. The large communal bath Tokowaka no Yu offers two unique experiences including the Pearl Aurora Bath*, inspired by the beauty of pearls, to gently soothe the weariness of travelers.
*Developed for Shiojitei by Mikimoto Cosmetics.
At Wood Deck Terrace Shioka, which overlooks Toba Bay with the scent of the sea and the ocean breeze, and at the adjacent Toba Hotel International’s luxury terrace*, guests can savor a special moment while experiencing the shifting sky and sea with all five senses. Against a panoramic backdrop, the wind over the water and flickering flames gently color the passing moments, seeming to calm even the soul.
*Available to guests staying at Shiojitei.
For dinner, indulge in refined Japanese cuisine at Dining Shiraishi, inspired by the sacred offerings at Ise-Jingu Shrine, or savor the flavors of Mie’s bounty, including grilled delicacies like Ise-Ebi lobster and abalone, at Teppanyaki Kiyoishi, celebrating the gifts of both sea and land.
Experience the Luster of Pearls and Ama Culture at Mikimoto Pearl Island
Floating serenely in the waters of Toba, Mikimoto Pearl Island is the place where the world’s first successful pearl cultivation took place. Even today, it quietly tells the story of the sea and its people. At the Pearl Museum, which unravels everything about pearls, encounters go beyond mere knowledge; they are moments when your heart touches the mystery of these light-born gems created deep within the ocean.
A highlight is the live demonstration by the Ama women divers who once supported pearl cultivation. Clad in white diving garments, they take a deep breath and dive into the sea, conveying the prayers of ancient times. Their poised beauty, seen nowhere else, is truly striking. Finally, at the Pearl Plaza, you can obtain a one-of-a-kind pearl for a lasting memory of your journey.
Toba Tenbodai Observatory (Ama-no-Terrace): A Sky-High Haven to Enjoy Scenery and Cuisine
Driving through the 23.8-km Pearl Road that links Toba and Shima brings you to a place where sea and sky seem to merge: Toba Tenbodai Observatory, also known as Ama-no-Terrace. From an elevation of 162 meters, an endless expanse of azure stretches before you. On clear days, even the distant peak of Mt. Fuji appears faintly on the horizon, creating a breathtaking view where heaven and earth become one.
At the adjoining café, savor the flavors of Mie, such as Ise-Ebi lobster and Matsusaka beef, served in special sandwiches made with bread that has a toasty, aromatic exterior while remaining soft on the inside. Enjoying each bite as the sea breeze surrounds you makes the memory of your travels all the more vivid. The shop offers items that capture the blessings of Ise-Shima’s seas and the luster of Akoya pearls, perfect as gifts for someone special. Here, close to the sky, Toba’s jewel box awaits, where beauty and flavor meet.
Interact with Ama Women Divers and Savor the Bounty of the Sea at the Ama Hut Hachiman Kamado Experience
After enjoying spectacular views and exquisite food at the Toba Tenbodai Observatory, continue onward toward Shima to find Ama Hut Hachiman Kamado overlooking Matoya Bay. Wrapped in the scent of the sea, this is a place where, for generations, Ama women divers gathered around a hearth after their dives, sharing stories of the ocean. Today, active Ama divers still welcome visitors with warm smiles as they stoke the charcoal fire and grill the fresh seafood of Ise-Shima with their own hands.
From luxurious courses featuring Ise-Ebi lobster and abalone to more casual light-meal options, every dish reflects the deep bond between the sea and its people. As you sit enveloped in the aroma of sea breeze and rising flames, your heart naturally unwinds amid the simple, heartfelt hospitality. If you wish, you can even don Ama diver attire for a commemorative photo, an optional experience that lets you feel the spirit of these women of the sea. The time spent here feels as if you were being embraced by the sea itself.
The Ise and Toba areas of Mie Prefecture are conveniently accessible via two airports: Chubu Centrair International Airport and Kansai International Airport. From Osaka, Kyoto, or Nagoya, you can easily reach the region by limited express train. From Tokyo, you can travel via Nagoya on the Shinkansen bullet train or opt for an overnight highway bus.
Related Links
Mie Once In Your Lifetime |
| URL:https://visitmie-japan.travel/en/ |
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| URL:https://www.instagram.com/visitmie/ |
Ise-Jingu Shrine |
| URL:https://www.isejingu.or.jp/en/ |
Oharaimachi/Okage Yokocho |
| URL:https://okageyokocho.com/main/en_okage/ |
Shiojitei |
| URL:https://www.shiojitei.jp/en/ |
Toba Hotel International |
| URL:https://www.tobahotel.co.jp/en/ |
Mikimoto Pearl Island |
| URL:https://www.mikimoto-pearl-island.jp/en |
Ama Hut Hachiman Kamado |
| URL:https://amakoya.com/english-page/ |
