Ise Travel Guide

Trek Zone

City

Facts and practical information

Located in the Mie region of Japan, Ise is a city that is steeped in history and culture. Known for its spiritual significance and stunning natural beauty, it is a must-visit destination for travelers seeking a unique and immersive experience.

One of the main attractions in Ise is the Ise Grand Shrine, also known as Ise Jingu. This Shinto shrine is considered one of the most important in Japan and is dedicated to the sun goddess Amaterasu. Visitors can explore the vast grounds, which are divided into two main areas: Naiku and Geku. Naiku is the inner shrine and is said to be the home of Amaterasu, while Geku is the outer shrine and is dedicated to Toyouke Omikami, the goddess of agriculture. The serene atmosphere and beautiful architecture of the shrine make it a truly awe-inspiring sight.

For those interested in traditional Japanese culture, a visit to the Okage Yokocho is a must. This charming street is lined with traditional wooden buildings that house various shops and restaurants. Here, visitors can immerse themselves in the local culture by trying on traditional kimono, sampling local delicacies, and purchasing unique souvenirs. The atmosphere is nostalgic and transports visitors back in time to old Japan.

Nature lovers will also find plenty to explore in Ise. The region is home to the famous Meoto Iwa, or "Wedded Rocks." These two sacred rocks are connected by a shimenawa, a rope made of rice straw, and are considered a symbol of marriage and fertility. The sight of the rocks standing against the backdrop of the crashing waves is truly breathtaking.

In addition to its cultural and natural attractions, Ise is also known for its delicious cuisine. The city is famous for its fresh seafood, particularly its oysters and spiny lobsters. Visitors can enjoy these delicacies at the local seafood markets or indulge in a traditional kaiseki meal at one of the many restaurants in the city.

Local name: 伊勢市 Population: 123.8 thous. (2019)Area: 80.44 mi²Elevation: 10 ft a.s.l.Coordinates: 34°29'36"N, 136°42'47"E

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MieJapan

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Ise Top Attractions

Ise Attractions - What to See and Explore

Ise offers many attractions and places to visit. Here are the most important ones: Tsukiyomi-no-miya, Isekawasakisyouninkan, Okage Yokocho Ancient Street, Ise-Jingu Geku. Below you will find a complete list of places worth visiting.

34°28'25"N • 136°43'45"E
Tsukiyomi-no-miya
Tsukiyomi-gu Shrine is a separate shrine of the Inner Shrine, located in Nakamura-cho, Ise City, Mie Prefecture, Japan.
Museum
Isekawasakisyouninkan
The Ise Kawasaki Mountaineering Museum is a facility that has been restored as a historical and cultural exchange base while restored and maintained a long -established liquor wholesaler, Ogawa Sake Store, which was founded in the...
34°27'45"N • 136°43'22"E
Okage Yokocho Ancient Street
Okage Yokocho is a tourist attraction that recreates the townscape of Torii-maecho from the late Edo period to the early Meiji period, which was crowded during the "oin mairi" in front of the Imperial Shrine...

34°29'13"N • 136°42'11"E
Ise-Jingu Geku
Sacred and religious sites • Historic walking areas • Temple
Sacred and religious sites • Temple
Taikoji
Taie-ji Temple is a temple of the Daigo school of Shingon Buddhism located in Ise City, Mie Prefecture, Japan. The temple is located in Ise City, Mie Prefecture, Japan. The temple is said to have been founded by Gyoki in the Tempyo period...
Sacred and religious sites
Sarutahiko Shrine
Sarutahiko Shrine is located near the Inner Shrine of Ise Jingu in Ise City, Mie Prefecture. It is dedicated to the deity Sarutahiko Ookami and his descendant Ota-no-Mikoto. The shrine was formerly an unranked shrine, but after World War II, it...
Universities and schools
Kogakkan University
Kogakkan University is a private university at Ise, Mie, Japan. The predecessor of the school was founded in 1882, and it was chartered as a university in 1940.

Day trips

Ise – popular in the area (distance from the center)

In the vicinity of Ise, it's worth seeing attractions such as: Nagoya Castle (Nagoya), Miho Museum (Koka), Ise Grand Shrine (Ise-Shima National Park).

49 milesN
Forts and castles, Museum
Nagoya Castle, Nagoya
Nagoya Castle, a historical fortress nestled in the heart of Nagoya, Japan, stands as a testament to the country's rich samurai heritage and architectural ingenuity. Constructed in the early 17th century, this imposing structure was originally built on the orders of...
49 milesNW
Museum with ancient art and antiques
Miho Museum, Koka
Nestled amidst the lush Shigaraki mountains of Koka, Japan, the Miho Museum is an architectural gem that offers a serene and contemplative environment for the appreciation of art. Designed by the renowned architect I.M. Pei, the museum is notable for its harmonious...
2.7 miS
7th-century Shinto shrine compound
Ise Grand Shrine, Ise-Shima National Park
The Ise Grand Shrine, also known as Ise Jingu, is a paramount sacred site in the Shinto religion, nestled in the city of Ise within the verdant embrace of the Ise-Shima National Park, Japan. This spiritual complex is dedicated to the sun goddess Amaterasu-omikami...
45 milesN
Temple, Sacred and religious sites
Atsuta Shrine, Nagoya
Atsuta Shrine, nestled in the bustling city of Nagoya, Japan, is a beacon of tranquility and spiritual reverence. This ancient Shinto shrine, believed to have been established during the first century, is one of the most significant places of worship in the country.
42 milesN
Aquarium, Zoo, Park
Port of Nagoya Public Aquarium, Nagoya
Nestled in the bustling city of Nagoya, Japan, the Port of Nagoya Public Aquarium is a marine-life oasis that offers a captivating experience for visitors of all ages. This state-of-the-art facility is renowned for its impressive collection of aquatic species and its...

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Best Time To Visit Ise

Learn when is the best time to travel to Ise weather-wise and what to expect in each season.

Popularity among visitors

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January and May are the busiest months in this location. Many people also choose to visit in April.

Average temperatures in °F

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The highest air temperature is in July and August. While the coldest is in January, February and December.

Monthly rainfall in inches

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The lowest rainfall is recorded in January and December. Most of it rains in September.

Length of day in hours

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We can expect the longest days in June, while the shortest in December.

Sunrise

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

What are the top attractions to visit in Ise?

The top attractions to visit in Ise are:

What is the best time to visit Ise?

January and May are the busiest months in this location. Many people also choose to visit in April. The highest air temperature is in July and August. While the coldest is in January, February and December.