30 Things to Do in Mie

Mie offers beautiful natural landscapes throughout all four seasons.
The best time to visit is in January when you can make a traditional New Year's visit to Ise Jingu and enjoy seasonal seafood delicacies.
If you prefer milder weather, the period from September to October is recommended, as you can enjoy the stunning autumn foliage in a refreshing climate.

Since Mie Prefecture does not have an airport, you will need to travel via major cities like Nagoya, Osaka, or Kyoto.
From Tokyo Station, take the Shinkansen to Nagoya Station, then transfer to a JR line or Kintetsu Limited Express to reach Mie in about 3 hours and 20 minutes.
From Osaka Namba Station, you can take the Kintetsu Limited Express, which takes approximately 1 hour and 40 minutes.
Enjoy a bento and the scenic views from the train as you travel to Mie.

A theme park where seasonal flowers are in full bloom in the vast park area. The park is illuminated with seasonal flowers such as tulips and nemophilas in spring and cosmos in fall. In addition, visitors can appreciate beautiful flowers throughout the year in the Begonia Garden, a large greenhouse with approximately 12,000 plants of several hundred varieties of begonias and other flowers from around the world.

Known affectionately as "Oise-san," the shrine is usually called "Ise Jingu-Shrine," but officially, it is called "Jingu-Shrine". There are 125 shrines, including the Naiku-Sharine (Kotai-Jingu /Imperial Grand Shrine), which enshrines Amaterasu Omikami, the ancestral deity of the Imperial Family, and the Geku-Shrine (Toyo'ukedaijingu-Shrine), which enshrines the guardian deity of food, clothing, shelter, and industry, as well as other shrines, including annexes, branch shrines, and other shrines under the jurisdiction of the shrine. The shrine pavilions are made of cypress in the ancient Japanese architectural style called "Shinmei-zukuri." Every 20 years, the two main shrines and 14 annexes are rebuilt, and the go-shintai is moved to a new location.

Opened in 1955, this long-beloved aquarium once started with about 50 different breeding species, but became the home of the most species in Japan when it surpassed over 1,200 species in 2013. The Toba Aquarium is also the only place in Japan that raises dugongs, offering a number of different exhibits and shows to enjoy during your visit.

This is one of the largest amusement parks in Japan, with some of the most thrilling attractions. The most popular attraction is the world-class hybrid coaster, "HAKUGEI" (meaning white whale). From the top of its 55-meter height, the coaster runs at an angle of 80 degrees with a maximum speed of 107 kilometers per hour. The thrill feels just like a ferocious white whale crossing through the rough sea!

The Suzuka Circuit holds the F1 Japan Grand Prix, Suzuka 8 Hours, and other races. Other than race courses, there are amusement parks, hotels, restaurants, making it a full fledged theme park.

It is a theme park where visitors can enjoy attractions, parades, and shows. Many of the attractions are Spanish-themed, and an authentic flamenco show is one of the highlights. There are many photo-worthy spots in the park, where you can take a special picture that is different from your everyday life.

Oharai Machi is a street, as in other shrine towns, that stretches before Ise Shrine’s inner hall and gate. Many worshippers pass through here every year. From the Edo Period to early Meiji Period, many people called Onshi lived here and performed Shinto dance and music for their worshippers (Oharai), thus, the name Oharai Machi is believed to have come about.

Sarutahiko Shrine enshrines Sarutahiko Ookami, the God who appears at the beginning of things and guides everything in the right direction. The Kojiki (Record of Ancient Matters) and Nihonshoki (Chronicles of Japan) tell us that he "enlightened the first heavenly grandson of the nation to this land." The votive tablet (Ema) depicts the "Michibiki no Mai (Dance of Michibiki)'' unique to the Sarutahiko Shrine, guiding wishes in the right direction.

"Shinmei Shrine", which stands in a quiet forest at the back of the approach, is the god of Osatsu and enshrines Amaterasu Okami.
Next to the shrine, there is an old camphor tree withered, which is revered as a sacred tree that "protects longevity."
The inside is a cave, and it is said that Genji's soldiers who lost the battle put themselves in this cave of Kusunoki.

Gozaisho ropeway connects Yunoyama Onsen Station at the foot of the 400-meter-high Mt. Gozaisho to the 1180-meter-high Sanjo Koen Station in 15 minutes. From the ropeway car, you can look down upon a panoramic view of Ise Bay. The restaurant at the mountain-top station serves meals. The well-maintained trail in the Sanjo park makes it easy to walk to the summit of Mt. Gozaisho(1,212 meters above sea level). The single chairlifts for skiing are also operating for sightseeing, serving those who want to reach the summit more easily.

Kumano Kodo is the path leading to the three Kumano Mountains (Kumano Hongu Taisha Shrine, Kumano Hayatama Taisha, Kumano Nachi Taisha and Mt. Nachisan Seiganto Temple). While Kumano faith was rising, noble families used this path to come to Kumano, which was later spread to the general public.

In 1893, Kokichi Mikimoto succeeded in culturing pearls on this island for the first time in the world. You can visit the Pearl Museum and Kokichi Mikimoto Memorial Hall, and watch demonstrations by women divers in the sea.
In the Pearl Museum, there are exhibitions of antique jewelry made in the time of natural pearls and works of art made with pearls, and in another spot, a specialized staff explains how cultured pearls are produced using genuine products, samples, and a movie.

The former Iga Ninja House, which opened in 1964. is now the Ninja Museum of Igaryu. And in addition to the Ninja House, it also houses a collection of old ninja and ninjutsu-related documents from all over Japan, as well as a experience hall and a traditions hall.

Ago Bay is known for its complex rias coastline with 60 small and large islands. It is a production area of bluegreen seaweed called Aosa by locals. Kashiko Island, used as a site for Ise-Shima Summit, is connected to the main island by a bridge for better access and there are hotels with marvelous views.

Kawasaki is located just northeast of Ise Jingu and bolstered the town under the nickname “Ise’s Kitchen” with the many people who came along their visits to Ise during the Edo Period. The town stretches along the middle reaches of the Seta River that flows through Ise City and, despite a few spots that are undergoing renovation after water damage, you can still see a number of historic buildings that remain along its the streetscape today.

Ise Sea Paradise is an aquarium near the famed "Meoto Iwa" (Married Couple Rocks) in Ise City, offering up-close encounters with a variety of marine creatures.

Futamiura's coastline is famous for the Meoto Iwa (Married Rocks) - two large rocks, one 9 meters tall and the other 4 meters, standing side by side like a couple, symbolizing marital harmony. This famed destination draws women and couples seeking good relationships. Located 700 meters offshore, the Oki-no-shima (a sacred stone) and a torii gate are seen as places to worship the sunrise, attracting devotion since ancient times. The rocks can be viewed from the approach to Futami Okitama Shrine.

Futami Okitama Shrine is dedicated to the deity Sarutahiko Okami, known for blessings in matchmaking, marital harmony, and traffic safety. Many travelers know this spot for its view of the iconic Married Rocks (Meoto Iwa) a 9-meter-tall male rock and a 4-meter-tall female rock found side by side when looking out from the shrine approach. Swing by three times a year to catch the changing of the sacred rope that’s draped across the rocks, held each year on May 5th, September 5th, and weekends in December.

Nestled at the foot of Mount Gozaisho, Yunoyama Onsen is a serene hot spring area rich in natural beauty. The area is dotted with inns and hotels along the banks of the Mitaki River, making it a popular base for exploring the surrounding region. The hot spring's origins date back to 718 during the Nara period, and it is also known as "Shika no Yu" (Deer’s Hot Spring) due to a legend of a deer healing its wounds in the waters.

The Takigawa River flows through Akame Town in Nabari City with upper reaches stretching into a series of waterfalls known as Akame 48 Waterfalls. The region stands long-loved as a sacred site and spiritual spot thanks to the tales of monks and ninjas who came here across the years to train.

Yokoyama Observatory, perched at an altitude of 140 meters, offers breathtaking views of a coastline dotted with 60 picturesque islands. The observatory underwent a renovation in 2018, introducing a modern viewing terrace.

Located in Okage Yokocho, the bustling street filled with various dining and souvenir shops near Ise Jingu Shrine, Sushi Kyu has a rich history dating back to the Tenpo era (1830-1844) of the Edo period. The founder, Kyuzo Morita, started the sushi business, which later expanded into a culinary inn. The current establishment was renovated and restored in 1989.

Located in the bustling Oharaimachi street near the Inner Shrine of Ise Jingu, within Okage Yokocho, Fukusuke is a renowned udon restaurant. It has been cherished for generations as an essential part of the Ise pilgrimage, offering the famous Ise Udon.

A long-established wagyu specialty shop with over 110 years of history. Since its founding in 1909, Butasute has exclusively sold unbred black-haired wagyu, meticulously raised by dedicated contract farmers near Ise. The cattle are fed a carefully crafted, safe feed blend, resulting in meat renowned for its exquisite marbling and rich flavor. Butasute's commitment to quality means they do not handle crossbreeds or castrated male cattle. Their offerings include beautifully sliced sukiyaki and yakiniku beef for gifting, as well as reasonably priced cuts for home use. They also sell domestic pork, processed products, and popular deli items like Butasute croquettes.

Mitsui Outlet Park Jazz Dream Nagashima opened in 2002. It houses around 300 stores, and is popular as Japan’s largest outlet mall.
This second story building, themed after the streets of New Orleans, features luxury brands, domestic and international makers, select shops and the hottest fashion. It also features sports, outdoor brands, watches, jewelleries, groceries, and other diverse shops. Each shop is reasonable with prices at outlet price. There are plenty of cafes and restaurants from authentic restaurants to easy take-out food, allowing visitors to enjoy diverse menus.

Ise Meotoiwa Meoto Yokocho, an indoor shopping facility attached to the popular Ise Sea Paradise aquarium known for its "zero-distance" exhibits, is one of the largest in the Ise-Shima area. Located along the path to the famous "Meoto Iwa" (Wedded Rocks), a power spot for marital harmony and romantic success, it attracts many tourists throughout the year.

A community shop and network project uncovering and showcasing the long-life design unique to each region. Currently, it operates nine stores in Japan and three overseas, each dedicated to sharing the local charm.

Located within Ise-Shima National Park, NEMU RESORT offers a comprehensive resort experience amidst rich natural surroundings, where guests can engage in a variety of activities or simply relax.
The expansive resort features the exhilarating seaside "NEMU GOLF CLUB," a garden pool, and marine cruises, among other activities.

"Amanemu" is the first Aman resort to feature hot springs, nestled quietly on a hill overlooking Ago Bay. All 24 suites and 8 villas are equipped with indoor hot spring baths, allowing guests to enjoy the hot springs in the privacy of their rooms.

A sprawling resort that offers the charm of Mediterranean-style white townscapes and breathtaking views of Ago Bay. Spread over 33,000 square meters, the village is divided into various zones, each showcasing a different Mediterranean ambiance. The "Meconorca Zone" replicates the picturesque streets of Mykonos in Greece and Mercadal in Spain, while the "Alhambra Zone" exudes an exotic allure. The "Castilla Zone" reflects the mountainous, arid landscapes of central Spain, the "Sardegna Zone" emulates the Mediterranean islands off the western coast of Italy, and the "Andalucía Zone" is infused with a bright and cheerful atmosphere.