Ise Shrine (Ise City, Mie Prefecture)

Overview (history, characteristics, attractions)

Ise Grand Shrine (Ise Jingu, Ise City, Mie Prefecture) is one of the most prestigious Shinto shrines in Japan, and is a sacred area consisting of the Inner Shrine (Naiku, officially Kotaijingu) and the Outer Shrine (Geku, Toyouke Daijingu), as well as many auxiliary shrines, auxiliary shrines, and subordinate shrines. The main deities enshrined at the Inner Shrine are Amaterasu Omikami and at the Outer Shrine are Toyouke no Omikami. Since ancient times, the shrines have had deep ties with the Imperial family and have been revered as the center of Japanese religion and culture.

The architectural style is "Shinmei-zukuri," and it is characterized by the use of cypress (hinoki) and ancient construction methods such as joints that do not use nails. It is famous for the Shikinen Sengu ceremony, in which the main hall is rebuilt every 20 years, which ensures that traditional techniques and faith are passed down. The tranquil approach surrounded by natural forests and the clear waters of the Isuzu River are also major attractions, and visiting the shrine itself is a calming experience.

Highlights

• Naiku (Imperial Shrine): The main shrine dedicated to Amaterasu Omikami. Located on the banks of the Isuzu River, it is attractive for its main shrine, approach to the shrine, and the atmosphere of purification rituals in the Isuzu River.
• Geku (Toyouke Daijingu Shrine): Enshrining the guardian deity of food, clothing, shelter, and industry. It is customary to worship at the same time as the Inner Shrine.
• Approach to the shrine and the Isuzu RiverThe approach to the shrine, surrounded by forest and bathed in sunlight filtering through the trees, and the clear waters of the Isuzu River are both great photo spots and a relaxing place to unwind.
• Branch shrines, auxiliary shrines, and subordinate shrinesThere are also small shrines of historical and religious importance scattered around, such as Tsukiyomi Shrine and Yamatohime Shrine. If you have time, make a pilgrimage.
• Oharaimachi and Okage Yokocho: A food and souvenir area that recreates the historical townscape near the approach to the shrine. You can enjoy Ise specialties (Akafuku, Ise udon, etc.).
• Remains and documents of the Shikinen Sengu: There are exhibits related to the Shikinen Sengu and an introduction to craft techniques, allowing you to learn about the cultural background of Ise Shrine.

Access (nearest station, transportation, etc.)

• Nearest station: JR Iseshi Station, Kintetsu Ujiyamada Station, Kintetsu Iseshi Station (accessible on foot or by bus from each station). (*There are multiple station names, so please check the appropriate line for your route.)
• To the Inner Shrine: From any Kintetsu or JR station, take a local bus (Ise City bus or Mie Kotsu) to Naiku-mae in about 5 to 15 minutes. Another popular route is to walk through Oharai-machi.
• To the Geku: About 5 to 10 minutes walk from JR Iseshi Station (close to the station).
• Access by car: Approximately 15-20 minutes from Ise Expressway/Ise IC via national or prefectural roads. There are paid parking lots around the Inner Shrine and Outer Shrine, but they tend to fill up during peak seasons, so we recommend arriving early.
• From afar: From Nagoya or Osaka, the direct Kintetsu express train is convenient. If you are flying, you can access the area by train and bus from Chubu Centrair International Airport (Nagoya).
• Tour bus and rental bicycles: There are also sightseeing buses and rental bicycles available, allowing you to visit multiple spots efficiently.

Estimated stay (estimated time required)

• Visiting only the Outer Shrine: 30 minutes to 1 hour
• Visiting the Inner Shrine only (including Oharaimachi): 1.5 to 3 hours
• Geku + Naiku (including Oharaimachi): Half a day to a full day (3 to 5 hours)
• Sightseeing in the surrounding area (including Meotoiwa Rocks and the Toba/Shima area): 1-2 days

Nearby spots

• Oharaimachi and Okage Yokocho: A tourist area lined with souvenir shops and restaurants where you can sample Ise specialties.
• Futamiura (Married Couple Rocks and Futami Okitama Shrine): Famous for the "Married Couple Rocks" that stand in the sea. You can enjoy the sunrise and sea breeze (about 20 minutes by car).
• Toba, Mikimoto Pearl Island, and Toba Aquarium:If you travel a little further from Ise, there are plenty of seaside tourist spots.
• Shima Spain Village and Ago Bay: A popular sightseeing course by car.

Things to be aware of (crowds, manners, seasonal precautions, etc.)

• congestion: It gets very crowded during New Year's visits (from New Year's Day to the first three days of the year), Golden Week, summer festivals, and long weekends. If you want to avoid the crowds, it's best to go early in the morning (right after the gates open) or on a weekday morning.
• Worship etiquetteWhen passing through the torii gate, bow slightly, purify your hands and mouth at the chozu (water basin), and generally bow twice, clap twice, and bow once more. Avoid speaking loudly or eating or drinking in front of the worship hall or main shrine, and please be quiet within the grounds.
• photograph: While photography is permitted in many areas within the temple grounds, there may be restrictions on photography in the main hall, when priests are working, and in certain other locations. Please follow the instructions of the signs and staff.
• Clothing and ease of walking: The approach to the shrine is unpaved and has tree roots, stairs, and other difficult sections. We recommend wearing comfortable shoes. Be sure to wear protective clothing against the heat in summer and cold in winter.
• natural environment：As you will be walking through the forest, please be aware of insects (especially in summer) and some areas may be slippery when it rains. Please bring water and rain gear.
• Check the official informationSpecial worship services, events, and traffic restrictions change depending on the season, so please check the latest information on the official Ise Shrine website or local tourist information before visiting.

This concludes our basic guide to Ise Grand Shrine. When visiting, please keep in mind that it is a tranquil sacred site and be respectful of the local culture and customs.