The small Japanese city of Ise sits on the eastern tip of Kii Peninsula on Honshu Island and is a major pilgrimage site due to its sacred Shinto shrine. History digs deep in Ise, with preserved heritage sites and old merchant quarters, while bustling main streets such as Oharai Machi overflow with cafes, pubs and shops.

Things to do

The Ise Shrine is by far the most visited site by travellers as well as devoted Shinto followers. The Grand Shrine is a large complex that houses about 125 small shrines as well as the two major shrines of Naiku and Geku, which are sanctuaries of the sun goddess and moon god. The shrines contain artefacts from the royal family as well as the Sacred Mirror of the Emperor.

While visiting Geku shrine, don’t miss exploring Sengukan Museum to discover the ceremony of Shikinen-Sengu, in which the Ise Shrines get reconstructed every 20 years as part of a Shinto belief in death and renewal of nature.

Shopping and dining can be found on the main street of OharaiMachi, where traditional Japanese drummers and street performers entertain on weekends. Okage Yokocho Street is a big draw for foodies looking for local specialties such fresh spiny lobster sashimi.

Futami Sea Paradise puts on interactive marine life featuring walruses, sea lions and miroungas. In the spring and autumn, Kagura-sai performances provide a chance to experience ancient “kagura” and “bugaku” dance and traditional Shinto music with bells, pipes and drums.

Getting around

Visitors coming to Ise by train arrive at Iseshi or Ujiyamada Stations, where buses connect to the main shrines and other attractions. The Geku Shrine is just a 10-minute walk from either station.