Japan Travel
< Mie Japan >
Mie is a prefecture located in the Kansai region of Japan. It is known for its natural beauty, including the Ise-Shima National Park and the famous Ise Grand Shrine, one of the most sacred shrines in Japan. The prefecture is also home to the Suzuka Circuit, a popular motorsports race track. The capital of Mie prefecture is Tsu.
Mie Travel
< Mie Travel >
Mie prefecture offers a variety of travel experiences for visitors. Some popular destinations include:
- Ise Grand Shrine: This shrine complex is considered one of the most sacred sites in Japan, and is dedicated to the sun goddess Amaterasu. It consists of two main shrines, the Inner Shrine and the Outer Shrine, both of which are rebuilt every 20 years as part of a tradition known as "shikinen sengu."
- Ise-Shima National Park: This park offers a variety of scenic landscapes, including rugged coastlines, hot springs, and subtropical islands. Visitors can enjoy activities such as hiking, swimming, and fishing.
- Suzuka Circuit: This motorsports race track is host to a number of international events, including the Japanese Grand Prix. Visitors can take a tour of the track, or even experience driving on it themselves.
- Toba: This coastal city is known for its beautiful beaches and marine activities, such as pearl diving and boat tours. It is also home to the Toba Aquarium, which features a wide variety of marine life from around the world.
- Matsusaka: This city is famous for its delicious beef, which is considered some of the best in Japan. Visitors can try Matsusaka beef at one of the local restaurants or buy it to bring home as a souvenir.
- Owari-Ichinomiya: This area is known for its traditional pottery and ceramic art, visitors can visit local potteries and buy unique pottery pieces.
These are just a few examples of the many things to see and do in Mie prefecture. Depending on your interests, there are many other places to visit and experiences to enjoy.
< Ise Jingu >
Ise Jingu, also known as Ise Grand Shrine, is a Shinto shrine complex located in the city of Ise in Mie prefecture, Japan. It is considered one of the most sacred shrines in Japan and is dedicated to the sun goddess Amaterasu, who is said to be the ancestor of the Imperial Family. The shrine complex is made up of two main shrines: the Inner Shrine (Naiku) and the Outer Shrine (Geku).
The Inner Shrine, which is located in the city of Ise, is dedicated to the worship of Amaterasu, while the Outer Shrine, located in the nearby town of Toba, is dedicated to her consort, the god Toyouke. Both shrines are rebuilt every 20 years as part of a tradition known as "shikinen sengu," which has been observed since the 8th century. The Inner Shrine was last rebuilt in 2013, while the Outer Shrine was rebuilt in 2018.
Visitors to Ise Jingu can explore the grounds of the shrine complex, which include a variety of traditional buildings, gardens, and other structures. They can also take part in traditional rituals such as purification before entering the inner shrine, and also buy souvenirs such as omamori (talismans) and ema (votive tablets) at the shrine.
Ise Jingu is also considered to be a spiritual center of Shintoism, and many Japanese people make a pilgrimage to the shrine at least once in their lifetime. The shrine is also famous for its beautiful, natural setting, and visitors can enjoy the lush greenery and peaceful atmosphere while they visit.
< Toba Aquarium >
The Toba Aquarium, located in Toba, Mie prefecture, Japan, is one of the largest aquariums in the country. It features a wide variety of marine life from around the world, including fish, mammals, and invertebrates. Some of the main attractions include:
- Dolphin Show: Visitors can watch a performance by trained dolphins, which includes tricks and acrobatics.
- Shark Tunnel: This tunnel allows visitors to walk through a large tank filled with sharks, rays, and other large fish.
- Pacific Ocean Tank: This large tank simulates the ocean environment and is home to a variety of fish, including tuna, bonito, and sharks.
- Ise Bay Tank: This tank recreates the environment of Ise Bay and is home to a variety of fish and invertebrates that are native to the area.
- Jellyfish Aquarium: This aquarium displays a variety of jellyfish species from around the world.
- Marine Mammals: The Aquarium features various marine mammals such as sea otters, seals, and sea lions.
In addition to these main attractions, the Toba Aquarium also features a number of other exhibits, such as a coral reef tank, a penguin exhibit, and a touch tank where visitors can interact with sea creatures. The aquarium also offers various activities and programs, such as dolphin and sea lion encounters and behind-the-scenes tours.
The Toba Aquarium is a popular destination for visitors to the area, and is a great place to learn more about the marine life that inhabits the waters around Japan.
< Nabana no Sato >
Nabana no Sato is a botanical garden located in Kuwana, Mie prefecture, Japan. It is known for its spectacular light displays, which feature millions of LED lights and are held annually in the fall and winter. The garden features a wide variety of plants and flowers, including a large collection of seasonal flowers such as tulips, poppies, and dahlias.
The main attraction of Nabana no Sato is the "Nabana no Sato Illumination," where the garden is decorated with millions of LED lights during fall and winter, creating a beautiful and mesmerizing atmosphere. The illumination event changes every year, and it includes different themes, such as traditional Japanese motifs, fantasy landscapes, and seasonal motifs.
In addition to the illumination, Nabana no Sato also features a number of other attractions and activities, such as a greenhouse, a greenhouse flower bath, a tea house, and an observation deck. Visitors can also take a boat ride through the illuminated garden, which offers a unique and breathtaking view of the lights.
Nabana no Sato is also a great place to learn about Japanese gardening and horticulture, as the garden features a wide variety of plants and flowers, many of which are native to Japan. The garden also offers workshops and classes, such as Ikebana, flower arrangement and traditional Japanese gardens, to visitors.
It is a popular destination for visitors, especially during the illumination period, and it is a great place to enjoy the beauty of nature and the art of lights.
< Ise Shrine Geku >
Ise Shrine Geku, also known as the Outer Shrine, is one of the two main shrines that make up the Ise Jingu complex in Mie prefecture, Japan. The Inner Shrine, or Naiku, is dedicated to the sun goddess Amaterasu, the ancestor of the Imperial Family and the Geku is dedicated to her consort, the god Toyouke.
The Geku is located in the nearby town of Toba, and it is the first of the two shrines that visitors to Ise Jingu typically visit. It is responsible for the worship of the god Toyouke, who is the patron of food, clothing, and shelter. The main hall of the Geku is dedicated to Toyouke and houses her sacred mirror, which is one of the three Imperial Regalia of Japan.
The Geku is also an important site for the practice of traditional Japanese arts and crafts, such as lacquerware, textile dyeing, and metalworking. Visitors can also see the traditional architecture and craftsmanship of the buildings and structures at the shrine.
Like the Inner Shrine, the Geku is rebuilt every 20 years as part of a tradition known as "shikinen sengu." The last reconstruction of the Geku was completed in 2018, and the next one is due in 2038.
Visitors can participate in traditional rituals such as purification before entering the shrine, and they can also buy souvenirs such as omamori (talismans) and ema (votive tablets) at the shrine. The Geku is an important spiritual destination for many Japanese people, and many make a pilgrimage to the shrine at least once in their lifetime.
< Okage Yokocho >
Okage Yokocho is a restored traditional street located in the town of Ise, Mie prefecture, Japan. It is designed to resemble a traditional Japanese town from the Edo period (1603-1868) and features a number of traditional buildings and shops, such as sake breweries, soy sauce manufacturers, and craft shops. Visitors can also find traditional Japanese food and souvenirs in this street.
The street was originally built in the 1980s as part of the Ise-Shima National Park, but it was closed down in the 1990s. It was later restored and reopened in 2016 as a tourist attraction, and it has become a popular destination for both domestic and international visitors.
Okage Yokocho features a number of traditional buildings and shops, many of which are modeled after real buildings and businesses that existed in the Edo period. Visitors can watch artisans at work, and can also try their hand at traditional crafts such as pottery and dyeing.
The street is lined with traditional Japanese merchant houses, and visitors can watch the artisans at work on traditional crafts, such as dyeing and pottery. There are also many shops selling traditional Japanese food and souvenirs, such as senbei (rice crackers), mochi (sweet rice cakes), and local specialties like Ise Udon.
Okage Yokocho is a great place to experience the traditional culture and atmosphere of Japan, and to learn about the history and customs of the Ise area. It is also a great place to buy souvenirs and try traditional Japanese food.
< Sarutahiko Shrine >
Sarutahiko Shrine is a Shinto shrine located in Ise, Mie prefecture, Japan. The shrine is dedicated to Sarutahiko, a god of roads and travel in Japanese mythology. According to legend, Sarutahiko was the one who guided the sun goddess Amaterasu out of the cave where she had hidden herself, thereby restoring light to the world.
The shrine is a short walk from Ise Jingu, and it is one of the most ancient shrines in Japan, dating back to at least the 7th century AD. The current main hall was rebuilt in 1825. The shrine is famous for its large torii gate, which is one of the largest in Japan and it is made of cypress wood.
The Sarutahiko Shrine is also known for its traditional Japanese gardens, which feature a variety of plants and flowers, such as azaleas, Japanese iris and hydrangea. The garden is particularly beautiful in spring, when the azaleas are in full bloom.
The shrine is also an important spiritual destination for many Japanese people, and many make a pilgrimage to the shrine at least once in their lifetime. Visitors can participate in traditional rituals such as purification before entering the shrine and they can also buy souvenirs such as omamori (talismans) and ema (votive tablets) at the shrine.
The Sarutahiko Shrine is a great place to experience the traditional culture and atmosphere of Japan, and to learn about the history and customs of the Ise area. It is also a great place to explore the traditional Japanese gardens and to see one of the largest torii gate in Japan.
< Suzuka Circuit >
The Suzuka Circuit is a motorsport race track located in Suzuka, Mie prefecture, Japan. It is one of the most famous and challenging race tracks in the world, and it has been the host of the Japanese Grand Prix for Formula One since 1987. The circuit has a unique figure-eight layout with several distinctive corners, including the famous 130R and Spoon Curves, which are considered some of the most challenging corners in motorsports.
The Suzuka Circuit is a 5.807 km track with 18 turns, and it has both clockwise and counterclockwise sections, making it one of the few circuits in the world with this configuration. The circuit has a seating capacity of 155,000 and it can accommodate around 200,000 visitors in total.
The circuit is operated by Mobilityland Corporation, a subsidiary of Honda Motor Co., Ltd. It also hosts many other motorsports events such as motorcycle racing, endurance racing, and GT racing, as well as track days for car and motorcycle enthusiasts.
Suzuka Circuit has a rich history in motorsport, it was built in 1962, it has hosted the Formula One Japanese Grand Prix since 1987, the Suzuka Circuit is also the only track in Japan that has hosted the F1 Grand Prix. The circuit has also hosted the MotoGP Japanese Grand Prix since 1999 and it's considered a favorite among riders.
The Suzuka Circuit is a must-see destination for motorsports fans, and it offers a variety of activities and experiences, such as tours of the circuit, car and motorcycle driving experiences, and the opportunity to watch live races and events.
< Mt. Yokoyama >
Mt. Yokoyama is a mountain located in the city of Suzuka, Mie Prefecture, Japan. It is known for its observation deck, which offers a panoramic view of the surrounding area.
The Mt. Yokoyama Observation Deck is located near the summit of the mountain and it provides a stunning view of the city of Suzuka and the surrounding area, including the Suzuka Circuit. The observation deck is accessible by car, and there is also a hiking trail that leads to the summit. The trail is relatively easy and takes around 30-40 minutes to hike up.
The observation deck is a popular spot for tourists and locals alike, especially during the fall season when the leaves change color. It is also a great spot to see the sunset, as the view from the top allows visitors to see the sun setting behind the city and the surrounding mountains.
Mt. Yokoyama is also known for the Yokoyama Dam, which is located at the foot of the mountain. The dam is a popular spot for fishing, boating, and other water activities. Visitors can also take a walk along the dam and enjoy the beautiful scenery.
In summary, the Mt. Yokoyama Observation Deck is a great place to experience the natural beauty of the Suzuka area and to enjoy a panoramic view of the city and the surrounding area. The hike up to the summit is relatively easy and the view from the top is definitely worth the effort. Additionally, the Yokoyama Dam is also a great place to visit for those interested in water activities.
< Shima Spain Village Parque España >
Shima Spain Village Parque España is a theme park located in the city of Shima, Mie prefecture, Japan. The park is designed to replicate the atmosphere and culture of Spain, and it features a variety of attractions, including Spanish-style buildings, gardens, and plazas, as well as traditional Spanish performances such as flamenco dance and music.
The park is divided into several different areas, each with its own theme, such as the Andalusia area, which features a replica of the Alhambra palace in Granada, and the Valencia area, which is designed to look like the city of Valencia. Other areas in the park include the Barcelona area, which is modeled after the famous Gothic Quarter of the city, and the Madrid area, which features a replica of the Royal Palace of Madrid.
Attractions in the park include a variety of rides and shows, such as a rollercoaster, a carousel, and a flamenco dance performance. Visitors can also enjoy traditional Spanish food and drinks at the park's restaurants and cafes.
The park also has a hotel, the Hotel Parque España, which is designed to resemble a traditional Spanish palace, and it has guest rooms decorated in a Spanish style.
Shima Spain Village Parque España is a unique destination for visitors to Mie Prefecture, as it provides a chance to experience the atmosphere and culture of Spain, without leaving Japan. It is a popular spot for tourists and locals alike, and it offers a variety of activities and experiences to enjoy.
< Iga-ryu Ninja Museum >
The Iga-ryu Ninja Museum is a museum located in the city of Iga, Mie prefecture, Japan. It is dedicated to the history and culture of the Iga ninja clan, which was one of the most famous and powerful ninja clans in Japan during the feudal period.
The museum features exhibits on the history and techniques of the Iga ninja clan, including information on their weapons, tools, and training methods. Visitors can also see a variety of ninja-related artifacts and documents, such as ninja scrolls and weapons.
One of the most popular exhibits at the museum is the "Ninja House," which is a replica of an actual ninja house from the Edo period. Visitors can explore the various rooms and learn about the various traps and hidden spaces that were used by the ninja to evade capture.
The museum also offers a variety of ninja-related activities and experiences, such as shuriken throwing and bojutsu (stick martial arts) classes. Visitors can also see live demonstrations of ninja techniques and watch a ninja show that features actors dressed in traditional ninja costumes.
In addition, the museum is situated within the Iga-Ueno Castle, a castle that has been a witness of the Iga-ryu ninja history and it has been rebuilt in the 20th century. Visitors can also explore the castle and its surroundings, which include a traditional Japanese garden and a moat.
The Iga-ryu Ninja Museum is a unique destination for those interested in the history and culture of the ninja in Japan, and it offers a variety of activities and experiences for visitors to enjoy.
< Tsubaki Ogamiyashiro Shrine >
Tsubaki Ogamiyashiro Shrine is a Shinto shrine located in the city of Suzuka, Mie Prefecture, Japan. The shrine is dedicated to the god of Ogami, the god of fire, and it is also known as Tsubaki Grand Shrine.
It is considered one of the most important shrines of the Tsubaki Grand Shrine complex and it is considered the head shrine of around 3,000 Tsubaki shrines in Japan.
The shrine is known for its beautiful gardens, which include a Japanese rock garden and a pond with a waterfall. The main hall of the shrine is a National Treasure of Japan and it is considered one of the most beautiful examples of ancient Shinto architecture.
The shrine also has a museum that exhibits various artifacts and documents related to the shrine's history and culture. Visitors can also see a collection of ancient swords, armor and other weapons, as well as artwork and other cultural treasures.
The shrine is also a popular spot for traditional Japanese festivals and events, such as the Tsubaki Festival, which is held in May and features traditional Japanese music, dance, and martial arts performances. The Tsubaki Festival is one of the three biggest festivals in Mie Prefecture and it attracts many visitors.
Tsubaki Ogamiyashiro Shrine is a popular spot for tourists and locals alike, and it offers a chance to experience the beauty and culture of traditional Japan. The gardens, the architecture, the museum, and the events are great ways to learn about the history, culture and the spiritual significance of the shrine and the Tsubaki Grand Shrine complex.
< Maruyama Senmai Rice Field >
Maruyama Senmai Rice Field is a terraced rice field located in the city of Suzuka, Mie Prefecture, Japan. It is considered one of the most beautiful and well-preserved rice fields in the region, and it is a popular spot for tourists and photographers.
The rice field is located on the slopes of Mount Maruyama, and it covers an area of about 20 hectares. The terraced fields are divided into small plots, each of which is tended by a different farmer. The fields are planted with different varieties of rice, and the terraces are irrigated using a traditional system of canals and channels.
Maruyama Senmai Rice Field is particularly beautiful during the summer months, when the rice plants are green and lush. The field is also a popular spot to see the autumn colors in the region, as the rice plants turn golden-yellow.
The rice field is surrounded by a beautiful landscape, and visitors can enjoy hiking and exploring the area. There are also several traditional Japanese houses and farmhouses in the area, which offer a glimpse into the traditional way of life of the local farmers.
Maruyama Senmai Rice Field is a beautiful and peaceful place to visit, and it offers a chance to experience the traditional culture and lifestyle of the region. It is also a popular spot for photography and to appreciate the beauty of nature.
< Oharai machi >
Oharai machi is a historic town located in the city of Ise, Mie Prefecture, Japan. It is a popular tourist destination known for its traditional architecture, shopping, and dining. The town is located on the banks of the Isuzu River and it is situated between the Ise Grand Shrine and the outer shrine, Naiku and Geku.
Oharai-machi is a well-preserved town that has retained its traditional atmosphere. Visitors can explore the narrow streets lined with traditional wooden houses and shops selling local handicrafts, souvenirs, and traditional Japanese sweets.
One of the main attractions of Oharai-machi is the traditional architecture. The town is home to many traditional Japanese buildings, including merchants' houses and shrines that date back to the Edo period (1603-1868). Visitors can also see the Oharaimachi Street, a historical shopping street with an atmosphere of the Edo period.
Oharaimachi is also known for its many traditional Japanese festivals, such as the Oharaimachi Festival, which is held in late April and features parades of people dressed in traditional costumes, traditional music and dance performances, and other cultural events.
Oharaimachi is a beautiful and historic town that offers visitors a chance to experience the traditional culture and lifestyle of Japan. It is a popular spot for tourists visiting the Ise Grand Shrine, as it offers a chance to explore the town and experience the history and culture of the region.
< Mitsui Outlet Park Jazz Dream Nagashima >
Mitsui Outlet Park Jazz Dream Nagashima is a large shopping complex located in the city of Kuwana, Mie Prefecture, Japan. It is one of the largest outlet malls in Japan, and it features a wide variety of shops, restaurants, and entertainment options. The mall is operated by Mitsui Fudosan, a major Japanese real estate developer.
The mall features over 200 shops and restaurants, including many popular Japanese and international brands. Visitors can find a wide variety of items at discounted prices, including clothing, footwear, accessories, household goods, and more. There are also several restaurants, cafes, and fast food outlets in the mall, offering a wide range of dining options.
The mall also features several other attractions, including an indoor playground for children, a movie theater, and an indoor water park called "Jazz Dream Nagashima". The park features several water slides, a lazy river, and a wave pool, making it a popular spot for families and visitors looking for fun and relaxation.
Mitsui Outlet Park Jazz Dream Nagashima is open year-round and is easily accessible by car and by public transportation, including the Meitetsu Nagoya Line. It is one of the most popular shopping destinations in the region and is a great spot to find deals on a wide variety of goods and to spend a fun day with the family.
< Iga Ueno Castle >
Iga Ueno Castle is a castle located in the city of Iga, Mie Prefecture, Japan. It is also known as Iga-Ueno Castle or Ueno Castle. The castle is located on top of a hill overlooking the city of Iga, and it is surrounded by a moat and stone walls.
The castle was built in the 16th century by Tsutsui Junkei, a local lord. It served as the main residence and administrative center for the Tsutsui clan, who ruled the area for over 200 years. The castle was also an important center of the Iga-ryu Ninja clan, one of the most famous and skilled ninja clans in Japan.
The castle was destroyed by fire in 1717, and today only the stone walls and some of the gates remain. However, the castle ruins have been preserved and are open to the public. Visitors can explore the castle grounds and climb to the top of the hill for a panoramic view of the city.
Iga Ueno Castle is also home to the Iga Ueno Ninja Museum, which features exhibits on the history and culture of the Iga-ryu Ninja clan. Visitors can learn about the ninja's tools, weapons, and techniques, and watch live ninja demonstrations.
Iga Ueno Castle is an important historical site and a popular tourist destination. It offers visitors a chance to learn about the history and culture of the Iga region and to experience the life of the ninja, who played an important role in the history of Japan.
< Sekijuku >
Sekijuku (関宿) is a historical location in the Iga region of Mie prefecture, Japan. It is known as the birthplace of the Iga-ryu ninja clan, one of the most famous and skilled ninja clans in Japan. The location is considered an important historical site and is open to visitors.
Sekijuku was a small village located near the border between Iga and Koga, two regions known for their ninja clans. It was here that a man named Momochi Sandayu established a school to teach the art of ninjutsu, or the ways of the ninja. This school, known as the Iga-ryu Ninjutsu Yashiki, became the center of the Iga-ryu clan and the home of many famous ninja, including Hattori Hanzo, who served as a bodyguard and advisor to the Tokugawa shogunate.
Today, Sekijuku is home to the Iga-ryu Ninja Museum, which is dedicated to the history and culture of the Iga-ryu clan. Visitors can learn about the tools, weapons, and techniques used by the ninja, as well as watch live demonstrations of ninja skills. There are also several other historical sites in the area, including the ruins of the Iga-ryu Ninjutsu Yashiki, which is a great spot to take a walk and enjoy the beautiful nature of the Iga region.
Sekijuku is a must-see destination for anyone interested in Japanese history and culture, particularly the history of the ninja. It offers a great opportunity to learn about one of the most famous and skilled ninja clan in Japan and to explore the beautiful nature of the Iga region.
< Kashikojima >
Kashikojima is an island located in the Ise Bay of Mie Prefecture, Japan. It is part of the Shima Peninsula, which is known for its beautiful beaches and scenic views. The island is a popular tourist destination and is known for its luxury resorts, golf courses, and hot springs.
Kashikojima is also known for its beautiful natural scenery, including the Shima-Sakamoto Coastal Quasi-National Park, which is home to a diverse range of flora and fauna. The island is also home to several historic sites, such as the Kashiko-jima Island History and Culture Center, which tells the story of the island's history and culture.
The island is also famous for its pearl farming industry, which is one of the most important industries in the area. Visitors can take a tour of a pearl farm and learn about the process of cultivating pearls.
Kashikojima is also known for its beautiful beaches, such as the Kutsuhama Beach and the Kaimon dake Beach. Visitors can enjoy swimming, sunbathing, and other beach activities at these beaches.
Kashikojima is a popular destination for tourists, especially for those looking for a luxurious and relaxing vacation. The island offers a wide range of activities and attractions, from natural scenery to history and culture, from luxury resorts to pearl farming.
It also a great place for golf lovers as it is home to several world class golf courses and it also offers a variety of dining options, from traditional Japanese to international cuisine.
< Senjuji Temple >
Senjuji Temple is a Buddhist temple located in the city of Suzuka, Mie Prefecture, Japan. It is a Shingon Buddhist temple which is one of the oldest Buddhist temples in the Suzuka area and is considered an important cultural site. The temple is dedicated to the bodhisattva Kannon, also known as the Goddess of Mercy.
The temple was founded in the Heian period (794-1185) and has a long history of over 1000 years. The temple's main hall, the hondō, is a National Important Cultural Property and is famous for its beautiful architecture and intricate carvings. The temple also houses many other important cultural artifacts, including statues, paintings, and calligraphy.
One of the most famous feature of Senjuji Temple is the Senju-Kannon-do Hall, which is a National Treasure of Japan. Inside the hall, there is a wooden statue of the 1000-armed Kannon, which is considered one of the most beautiful statues of the bodhisattva in Japan.
The temple is also well-known for its beautiful gardens and its cherry blossom and autumn foliage are especially famous. Visitors can enjoy the serene atmosphere of the temple and take in the natural beauty of the surrounding area.
Senjuji Temple is a must-see destination for anyone interested in Japanese Buddhism and history. It offers a glimpse into the rich cultural heritage of the Suzuka area and is a great place to experience the serenity and beauty of traditional Japanese temple architecture.