Things To Do
in Ise
Ise is a historic city located in Mie Prefecture, Japan. It is famous for being home to the Ise Grand Shrine, one of the most important Shinto shrines in the country. The city is known for its traditional architecture, tranquil gardens, and serene atmosphere.
Visitors can also enjoy fresh seafood from Ise Bay and explore the surrounding natural beauty.
- "Arigatou" - Thank you
- "Sumimasen" - Excuse me / I'm sorry
- "Konnichiwa" - Hello / Good afternoon
- "Eigo o hanasemasu ka?" - Do you speak English?
- "Oishii" - Delicious
Prices
- 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $50 - $150
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $10 - $30
- ☕ Coffee: $2 - $5
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $1 - $3
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $30 - $70
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $40 - $100
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Visit the Ise Grand Shrine, one of Japan's holiest Shinto shrines. Wander through the beautiful forested pathways and admire the traditional architecture.
Explore the nearby Oharai-machi district, where you can find quaint shops and local delicacies. Try some Ise udon for a satisfying lunch.
Enjoy a peaceful evening stroll around the Yoshino River. Settle into a local onsen for a relaxing soak.
Start your day with a hike at Mount Asama, enjoying stunning views. Bring your camera to capture the beauty of the surrounding nature.
Visit the Meoto Iwa (Wedded Rocks) on the coast, a famous symbol of marriage in Japan. Enjoy the serene ocean view and the fresh sea breeze.
Dine at a seaside restaurant, savoring fresh seafood. Take a moment for reflection while watching the sunset over the ocean.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Rich cultural heritage with ancient shrines and temples, particularly Ise Jingu, which is considered the most sacred Shinto shrine in Japan.
- Beautiful natural scenery, including mountains and coastal areas, providing opportunities for outdoor activities such as hiking and beach visits.
- Peaceful atmosphere, making it a great destination for those seeking tranquility away from the hustle and bustle of larger cities.
- Delicious local cuisine, particularly seafood and traditional dishes that reflect the region's agricultural bounty.
- Strong community ties and local traditions, offering visitors an authentic experience of Japanese culture.
- Limited nightlife and entertainment options compared to larger cities like Tokyo or Osaka.
- Potential language barrier, as English is not widely spoken among locals.
- Public transportation options may be more limited, making it necessary to rent a car or rely on taxis for convenience.
- Can be crowded during peak tourist seasons, especially during festivals or events at the shrines.
- Natural disasters such as typhoons and earthquakes can pose risks in the region.
Best Activities in Ise
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Visit the renowned Ise Grand Shrine, a complex of Shinto shrines located in Ise, Japan. It's one of the most important and sacred Shinto shrines in Japan, and offers a serene and beautiful setting for exploration.
Take a trip to Meoto Iwa, or the Wedded Rocks, which are a pair of sacred rocks connected by a shimenawa (a heavy rope of rice straw) and are considered a symbol of marriage and unity in Japanese culture. The site offers stunning ocean views and is a great spot for photography or simply enjoying the natural beauty.
Explore the picturesque Ise-Shima region by cycling. Enjoy the coastal scenery, visit local fishing villages, and experience the laid-back charm of the countryside.
Embark on a hiking adventure in the nearby mountains, such as the Suzuka Mountains, where you can enjoy beautiful trails, lush greenery, and panoramic views of the surrounding landscape.
Places to Visit in Ise
Visit one of these nice places.
One of the most sacred Shinto shrines in Japan, offering beautiful architecture and serene surroundings.
A charming historic street lined with shops and restaurants, perfect for capturing the essence of traditional Japan.
This iconic pair of rocks in the sea is a popular spot for breathtaking sunsets and coastal views.
Food in Ise
Ise Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Ise Ebi (Japanese spiny lobster) is a prized local delicacy in Ise. Try Ise Ebi Sushi, where the sweet, tender meat of the lobster is showcased atop vinegared rice.
Must-Try!
Tekonezushi, a local specialty, features marinated raw fish, typically bonito, served on a bed of rice. It's known for its savory, umami-rich flavor.
Matsusaka beef, renowned for its exceptional marbling and tenderness, is a must-try in Ise. Indulge in Matsusaka beef at local restaurants for a premium dining experience.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Explore Oharai-machi, a bustling historic street lined with food stalls and vendors offering a wide array of street foods such as Ise Udon, Akafuku mochi, and fresh seafood skewers.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
In Ise, Japan, it is polite to bow slightly when greeting someone, and to use formal language, especially when speaking to elders or those in authority.
When visiting shrines in Ise, it's important to show respect by following the proper procedures, such as purifying yourself at the water basin before entering the main shrine area.
Bringing a small gift, especially something from your own country, when visiting someone's home or when attending social gatherings is a common and appreciated practice in Ise, Japan.
Safety
Tipping in Ise
Ensure a smooth experience
In Ise, Japan, tipping is not a common practice. It is usually not expected in restaurants, hotels, or other service industries. The concept of excellent service is deeply ingrained in Japanese culture, and tipping may even be seen as rude or awkward.
Payment in Ise, Japan is primarily done using cash. Credit and debit cards are widely accepted in major establishments, but it is always advisable to carry sufficient cash, especially when visiting local markets, smaller restaurants, or traditional establishments. It is also important to note that some businesses may not accept foreign credit cards, so it's best to be prepared with local currency.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Best time to visit Ise, Japan. Cherry blossoms bloom and Ise Shrine is particularly beautiful during this season.
Warm and humid weather. Coral reefs near Ise-Shima National Park are beautiful for snorkeling and diving.
Mild weather with colorful foliage. Ise Grand Shrine is enchanting amidst the autumn leaves.
Cool weather but not too cold. Ise Shrine has a serene atmosphere and fewer crowds during this season.
Ise at Night
Hiking in Ise
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A network of ancient pilgrimage trails through the beautiful mountains of the Kii Peninsula, part of a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Offers a variety of trails with stunning ocean views and lush forest landscapes, perfect for hiking and exploring nature.
A hiking spot with moderate trails and rewards of panoramic views from the summit, located near Ise.
Not just a hiking spot, but a dramatic seaside location where hikers can enjoy coastal paths leading to these famous twin rocks.
Features various trails that wind through verdant mountainous terrain, ideal for both casual and serious hikers.
Aiports
How to reach Ise by plane.
The main international airport serving the Chubu region, located on an island in Ise Bay, approximately 50 km from Ise.
Situated on an artificial island in Osaka Bay, approximately 150 km from Ise, it serves as a major hub for international flights.
A smaller airfield located closer to Nagoya, primarily serving domestic flights but also some international operations, about 40 km from Ise.
Also known as Osaka International Airport, it is about 170 km from Ise and mainly handles domestic flights, with some international routes.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The predominant demographic group, primarily composed of native Japanese people who make up the majority of the population in Ise.
Includes a small number of expatriates and migrants from various countries, contributing to the cultural diversity in Ise.
Visitors from various regions of Japan and around the world who come to Ise for its cultural and historical significance, especially the Ise Grand Shrine.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Baseball is one of the most popular sports in Japan, including Ise, where local schools and teams often compete in various leagues.
Soccer has a strong following in Ise, with many local clubs and youth teams participating in regional competitions.
Kendo, the traditional Japanese martial art of fencing, is practiced widely in Ise, reflecting the city's cultural heritage.
Basketball enjoys popularity in Ise, with both boys' and girls' teams active in local schools and community leagues.
Volleyball is a widely played sport in Ise, with teams often participating in both school and community tournaments.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Ise.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
While traditional Japanese cuisine heavily features seafood, many restaurants in Ise offer vegetarian and vegan-friendly dishes like vegetable tempura, tofu-based meals, and fresh vegetable sushi rolls.
Look for restaurants that serve rice-based dishes and offer gluten-free soy sauce to accommodate those with gluten sensitivities. Communication with restaurant staff about dietary needs is also recommended.