Ise Travel Guide 2026: Top Attractions, Local Food & Travel Tips | Trip.com

Toyouke Daijingu (Ise Jingu Geku, Outer Sanctuary)

Ise

Trending in Ise

Okage Yokocho Lantern Festival: 2,000 Lanterns and Kanname-sai Celebrations@Okage Yokocho Ancient Street

Ise Sea Paradise: Get up close to marine life@ISE Sea Paradise

Futamiokitama Shrine: Shimenawahari Ritual and Kiyariuta Singing@Futamiokitama Shrine

About Ise

15℃

Local currency

JPY

Recommended stays in Ise

Discover the most popular places to stay in Ise, complete with recommendations from fellow travelers and special hotel offers

Sanco Inn Iseshi-Ekimae Shikinoyu <Main building><Annex Grande>

9.2/10891 Reviews

Guest User: The staffs at receptions are super helpful, one helping me reserve a restaurant in Matsusaka. Another lady staff also heled me finding new restaurant on the 2nd night as the one i plan to go was fully occupied, i am really thankful for that.💜 The Aircon is not a centralized type, which is really good during the autumn/winter. The hotel has pilow bar where you can lend pillow of your choice without charge. They also provide icebar at the public bath area. Location is the best

Miyajiri 1-1-1

From $ 93

FLYCAT INN Ise

8/10141 Reviews

Guest User: Super cheap price compare to quality. Self service check-in only. App require Uppercase input only for your name if English language or you could not submit.

Fukiage, 1-10-13

From $ 31

fav ISE

8.8/1080 Reviews

Guest User: Exceptional experience. The room was very nice and surprisingly walking distance from the best restaurant in town called Ofuji, me and my boyfriend accidentally walked in and managed to get seats for two for the first night and totally packed with locals. The locals are super friendly and introduced us dishes to enjoy and we ordered almost everything on the menu. This Ofuji restaurant is 4.6 stars in google review which is the highest score in town! The hotel itself is very clean, room is super spacious with living area, couch and you can connect your own Netflix to enjoy the night.

1 Chome-3-7 Ichinoki

From $ 161

EN Hotel Ise

8.2/10421 Reviews

Guest User: I love this hotel, staff have warm welcome and helpful, ABF variety food including recommend local food, room clean with eco friendly, I love it❤️❤️❤️ Close train station for transfer to city nearby. Walk 5-10 mins have 2 supermarket next to hotel 💕💕

2 Chome-5-11 Fukiage

From $ 59

Ise Pearl Pier Hotel

9.1/10123 Reviews

Guest User: Hotel is located in walking distance to Iseshi station. While there seems to be limited food options in the vicinity, there is a supermarket directly opposite the hotel.

2 Chome-26-22 Miyajiri

From $ 93

Toyoko Inn Iseshi Eki

8.5/10165 Reviews

Anonymous User: Friendly staff delivered effective and considerate services. The shuttle bus services from/to railway station also made much convenient to the guests. Recommend!

2-chōme-9-11 Ōzeko

From $ 49

Hotel Vison

9/10214 Reviews

Guest User: Nice place A lot of shops to visit Very clean Staff were nice

672-1 Vison, Taki District

From $ 174

Hotel Castle Inn Ise

7.8/10243 Reviews

Anonymous User: The location is good, very quiet, however, do note that it's about a 20 minute walk to Iseshi train station (or a short bus ride). There's a convenience store just across the road, but very few other places of note in the immediate vicinity. The room was sufficiently large with all the necessary facilities, and all was in generally good condition. The staff was very kind and the service was good. Overall, good value for money

3-5-55 Jinkyu

From $ 49

Hotel Castle Inn Ise Meotoiwa

8.6/10110 Reviews

Tanin Phannithi: There are both public and private onsens Peacrful and good for relax

５３７−２０ Futamicho Chaya

From $ 63

NIPPONIA HOTEL ISEKAWASAKI MERCHANT TOWN

9.9/1044 Reviews

Guest User: It was a very good experience; the place was clean, tidy, and quiet. Even though I arrived quite late, there were people waiting for me, which made me feel at ease.

2-chōme-14-12 Kawasaki

From $ 264

Must-try food in Ise

Want to eat like a local? Don't miss out on these top Ise dishes and foodie spots.

Japanese cuisine

Coffee shop

Asian cuisine

Iwatoya

3.7/57 Reviews$21

58 Ujiimazaikecho, Ise, Mie 516-0024, Japan

Tsutaya

4.3/57 Reviews$8

2 Chome-22-24 Kawasaki, Ise, Mie 516-0009, Japan

Kappa Sushi

3.4/57 Reviews

2090 Misonocho Nagaya, Ise, Mie 516-0804, Japan

Asoranochaya

4.3/57 Reviews$10

Japan, 〒516-0074 Mie, Ise, Honmachi, 13−7 伊勢せきや本店 2階

Butasute

4.3/56 Reviews

52 Ujinakanokiricho, Ise, Mie 516-8558, Japan

Akafuku Honten

4.3/56 Reviews

26-26 Ujinakanokiricho, Ise, Mie 516-0025, Japan

Kura de Ramen

4.1/57 Reviews

1 Chome-9-17 Miyajiri, Ise, Mie 516-0072, Japan

Sushikyu

4.1/57 Reviews

20 Ujinakanokiricho, Ise, Mie 516-8558, Japan

Sato Ise

3.8/58 Reviews

5-22 Honmachi, Ise, Mie 516-0074, Japan

Wakayagi

4.4/57 Reviews

Japan, 〒516-0079 Mie, Ise, Ozeko, 2 Chome−10−12 別館豚捨本店

Bon Vivant

4.4/57 Reviews$21

Japan, 〒516-0074 Mie, Ise, Honmachi, 20−24 逓信館

DANDELION Chocolate Shop & Cafe Ise Geku

4/57 Reviews

Japan, 〒516-0074 Mie, Ise, Honmachi, 20−24 逓信館

Cafe Mori

4.3/56 Reviews

２F, 1 Chome-15-10 Iwabuchi, Ise, Mie 516-0037, Japan

Isuzugawa Cafe

4.3/57 Reviews

12 Ujinakanokiricho, Ise, Mie 516-8558, Japan

Cafe Bianca

4.1/57 Reviews

1 Chome-1-3 Iwabuchi, Ise, Mie 516-0037, Japan

Cap Juby

5/52 Reviews

30-2 Uji Imazaikecho, Ise, Mie Prefecture

Okage Yokocho Haikarasan

26 Uji Nakanokiricho, Ise, Mie Prefecture 516-0025

Ichishina

3-1-2 Funae, Ise 516-0008, Mie Prefecture

Pizzeria&cafe Orso

4/57 Reviews

3039 Misonocho Nagaya, Ise, Mie 516-0804, Japan

Hitosara

4.3/57 Reviews

1 Chome-6-58 Funae, Ise, Mie 516-0008, Japan

Tsutaya

4.3/57 Reviews$8

2 Chome-22-24 Kawasaki, Ise, Mie 516-0009, Japan

Kura de Ramen

4.1/57 Reviews

1 Chome-9-17 Miyajiri, Ise, Mie 516-0072, Japan

MAMEYA

4.1/57 Reviews$8

2 Chome-19-11 Miyajiri, Ise, Mie 516-0072, Japan

Ise Udon Okunoya

3.9/57 Reviews

18 Ujiimazaikecho, Ise, Mie 516-0024, Japan

Nakamura

4.1/57 Reviews

12-14 Honmachi, Ise, Mie 516-0074, Japan

Okadaya

31 Ujiimazaikecho, Ise, Mie Prefecture

Chitose

1-15-11 Iwabuchi, Ise, Mie Prefecture

Ise Udonotaya

1-10-23 Iwabuchi, Ise, Mie Prefecture

Fuunmaru Ramen, Ise Roadside Restaurant

Japan, 〒516-0007 Mie, Ise, Kogicho, 653-1 和宏１階

Yamaguchiya

1 Chome-4-23 Miyajiri, Ise, Mie 516-0072, Japan

Recent events and experiences in Ise

Universal Studios Japan 25th Anniversary "Discover U!!!" event in Ise

From $ 37

Osaka

Mar 4, 2026-Mar 30, 2027

Universal Studios Japan 25th Anniversary "Discover U!!!"

From $ 110

Tokyo

Feb 11, 2027

Tokyo | XG WORLD TOUR: THE CORE FINAL"1" & "7"

From $ 201

Osaka

Nov 20-Nov 21

2026 MAMA AWARDS

From $ 83

Osaka

Jan 30, 2027-Jan 31, 2027

Osaka | TOMORROW X TOGETHER WORLD TOUR <STEAL THE WIND> IN JAPAN

From $ 114

Osaka

Dec 19-Dec 20

Osaka | 2026 LE SSERAFIM TOUR 'PUREFLOW' IN KYOCERA DOME OSAKA

Gifu City

Jan 30, 2027

Gifu City | LiSA LiVE is Smile Always～LACE UP～

Osaka

Dec 10-Dec 13

Osaka | Fujii Kaze Prema World Tour

Osaka

Jan 19, 2027-Jan 20, 2027

Osaka | Bruno Mars - The Romantic Tour

Nagoya

Jan 4, 2027-Jan 5, 2027

Nagoya | Bruno Mars - The Romantic Tour

From $ 83

Nagoya

Feb 20, 2027-Feb 21, 2027

Nagoya | TOMORROW X TOGETHER WORLD TOUR <STEAL THE WIND> IN JAPAN

Traveler photos and experiences

＼ Daytime Bar Crawl in Ise ／.

I went to Ise for work, and figured I'd stroll around Ise Jingu Shrine while I was there... but it was a blistering 38℃ (100℉) that day🥵 It was way too hot, so I gave up😂 No way- Instead, I went on a bar crawl to 2 spots near my accommodation that I had been curious about🍺 First up was an izakaya founded in 1914, so famous that they say "everyone in Ise knows it." 📍 Ichigatsuya. Walking inside, there's a long counter and a classic, old-school vibe✨ Even on a weekday evening, it was almost completely packed with locals. The menu didn't have prices on it, which made me a bit nervous at first😳 But it's a system where you write down what you want on a piece of paper and hand it over. We ordered sashimi, pickled octopus, chilled tofu, grilled chicken wings, and more🍺 After 2 draft beers, 1 bottled beer, 1 serving of sake, and eating a bunch of different dishes, we asked for the check! The owner whipped out a giant abacus and started clicking away, going "Here ya go!"🧮 It came out to about 4,500 yen for the 2 of us😳 I couldn't help but blurt out, "That's so cheap!"😂 For our 2nd stop, we headed to a spot recommended by a local sitting next to us at Ichigatsuya, 📍 Uosuzu🐟 Their handwritten menu was packed with the day's recommendations. They're popular for their thick slices of seasonal sashimi, and they have an amazing sake selection🍶 Since we had just eaten sashimi, we ordered burdock root salad, grilled shiitake mushrooms, chanja, fried camembert cheese, and a few other things✨ Plus, they mentioned anything that isn't raw is OK for takeout, so we got a jumbo shrimp tempura roll and fried chicken gizzards to go and enjoyed them relaxing back at our accommodation😊 A lot of places were closed since it was just after a three-day weekend, but just walking around, I saw so many spots that caught my eye. Ise isn't just about the Shrine; it's a fantastic town for bar hopping too🍺✨ I'm absolutely coming back! ---

kabu_tabi_

＼ Today, I'm spending the night in an art museum. ／.

Just about a 10-minute walk from Ise Jingu Geku. Nestled perfectly into the local Ise townscape is this lovely accommodation, 📍EXPERIENCE ISE MIYAMACHI HOTEL Bettei HA-KU | Heading to @experienceise_miyamachihotel ✨ It just opened its doors in November 2025, but it's far more than just a place to sleep 😮💨 This private vacation rental is filled with stunning artwork, making it feel exactly like you're staying inside a gallery 🎨 Plus, having the whole house to yourself gives you that authentic "living like a local" vibe! Absolutely irresistible! The morning sunlight and dappled light pouring through the large windows, beautifully shifting the mood of the art and space as the day goes by, are also impressive. It comes fully equipped with a living room and a kitchen, making it perfect for those who want to kick back and relax with family or friends 😊 Honestly, I wish I could live here 🙄 Because they genuinely want guests to experience the local dining scene, dinner is generally not provided. So, we strolled about 6 minutes to a hub packed with awesome local eateries! It was so delicious, super affordable, and simply the best! 😍 For breakfast, you can choose between Japanese or Western styles (2,200 yen), featuring fresh local veggies, rice, and miso, in carefully curated menus packed with Ise's regional ingredients. Getting to savor the authentic flavors of the region during your trip is such a lovely perk! It's not just about "sightseeing"—it's about experiencing what it's like to actually live in Ise. It was an incredible stay where we could soak up such luxurious moments ✨ I definitely want to come back and stay again ☺️ ━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━ 📍 EXPERIENCE ISE MIYAMACHI HOTEL 　Bettei HA-KU 📍 1-9-49 Miyamachi, Ise City, Mie Prefecture 🚶 Approx. a 10-minute walk from Ise Jingu Geku 🛏 Limited to 1 group per day・Private villa rental (Max 6 guests) ━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━ If this caught your eye, be sure to save it and use it to plan your next trip to Ise 😊 ーーー PR

kabu_tabi_

Ise: Enjoy the Ultimate Chill Time After Visiting Ise Jingu!.

Ise-Shima: Treat yourself to the ultimate chill experience at Oharai-machi and Okage-Yokocho after paying your respects at Ise Jingu! Oharai-machi, the bustling approach leading to Ise Jingu, and Okage-Yokocho, situated right at its heart, form a vibrant district steeped in historical charm. After all that walking and exploring, why not take a well-deserved break at Oharai-machi and Okage-Yokocho for a leisurely and delightfully relaxing time! ・Akafuku Main Store (Branches) Established in 1707, "Akafuku" stands as one of Ise's most iconic local specialties. Legend has it that weary travelers on long, arduous pilgrimages to Ise Jingu would find instant comfort and renewed energy just by taking a bite of Akafuku mochi. This enduring tradition makes Akafuku a classic, time-honored Ise souvenir today. For the upcoming summer season, we highly recommend trying the wildly popular, limited-time treat: "Akafuku Ice." This refreshing dessert features shaved ice generously drizzled with rich matcha syrup, hiding specially crafted red bean paste and mochi inside. Every bite delivers a perfectly cool and classic taste. ・Dangoro Chaya Designed like a cozy food court, this spot recreates the lively atmosphere of a traditional Edo-period "mountain pass teahouse," where travelers would rest, swap stories, and recharge for the journey ahead. Alongside signature offerings like freshly made-to-order rice balls (onigiri) and savory Matsusaka beef skewers, they serve up refreshing cold soba noodles and Dangoro Chaya's original shaved ice—perfect mouthwatering choices for summer. Access From Osaka-Namba: Take the Kintetsu Line from Osaka-Namba Station to Iseshi Station (approx. 1 hour 50 minutes); then transfer to a bus to "Jingu Kaikan-mae" (approx. 17 minutes); it's about a 1-minute walk from the bus stop. From Kintetsu-Nagoya: Take the Kintetsu Line from Kintetsu-Nagoya Station to Iseshi Station (approx. 1 hour 20 minutes); then transfer to a bus to "Jingu Kaikan-mae" (approx. 17 minutes); it's about a 1-minute walk from the bus stop.

旅遊去到悶

Setouchi Triennale in Japan: Naoshima (2) Favorite "Art House Project"

Continuing the guide for the 2025 Setouchi Triennale, last time I covered the 10 buildings designed by Tadao Ando. This article focuses on Naoshima’s "Art House Project" series, which is among the many artworks on the island that I particularly love. The Art House Project involves redesigning and renovating local historic buildings, temples, and shrines in Naoshima, transforming their spaces into artworks. Walking through the Honmura district where locals live, strolling through everyday courtyards, feels entirely different from the formal experience of visiting museums or galleries— it’s like stepping into the memories and elements of the past residents. 🌟 The entire Art House Project features 8 works, including: 👉🏻 Minamidera, a work by Tadao Ando 👉🏻 Ando Museum, also housed in a century-old building (Shared in previous notes.) 🌟 We also visited two other works: 1️⃣ Kadoya (Images 12-15) The first completed project in the series, this 200-year-old house was restored to its original state using traditional materials like plaster, burnt wood panels, and clay tiles. Inside is Tatsuo Miyajima’s "Sea of Time '98," created with the participation of many local residents. 2️⃣ Go’o Shrine (Images 6-9) This shrine, worshipped since the Edo period, was redesigned by Hiroshi Sugimoto. The main hall and front shrine reference early Shinto architecture like Ise Shrine, while a glass staircase connects the stone chamber and main hall, linking the underground and aboveground worlds. 3️⃣ Another standout work in the same area is "Ring of Fire" (Images 1-4), housed in an old building. The structure was renovated by Akiko Miki and features a stunning moss-covered garden reminiscent of Kyoto’s Saihō-ji. The indoor artwork shifts between day and night: by day, Korean artist Haegue Yang’s "Sun" fills the space with hanging beads and sculptures; by night, Yang and Thai artist Apichatpong Weerasethakul’s "Moon" creates an ethereal glow with lighting. (No photos allowed inside, so only the garden and building are shown.) 4️⃣ Lastly, the public architecture here is also worth seeing: Naoshima Town Hall (Image 16) brims with playful imagination; Naoshima Hall (Image 17), designed by architect Hiroshi Sambuichi, uses wind-powered air circulation after two years of climate research. The traditional plaster ceilings and hinoki wood roof are highlights. Next time, I’ll share Naoshima’s iconic outdoor artworks, like the Yellow and Red Pumpkins. Naoshima, Kagawa District

emmeline_wilde94

Experience the Hidden Wellness Secrets of Amanemu

Amanemu, Japan】📍Located in Ise-Shima National Park in Mie Prefecture on Honshu Island in central Japan, it is Aman's first hot spring resort. The 33-meter infinity pool overlooks the tranquil Ago Bay, like a water island in a green sea. · 【Arrival】 🔺From Chubu International Airport Nagoya, take a 25 min helicopter or 3-hour train to the hotel. 🔺Afterward, the hotel provides a free transfer to Amanemu (20-minute drive). · 【Rooms】 💎24 suites and 4 two-bedroom villas All have private hot springs and are full of rustic charm, echoing Aman Tokyo but with a different flavor. The spacious terraces of the suites allow guests to enjoy the scenery of the four seasons and enjoy views of the bay 🌊 or garden. Each villa has a private hot spring, kitchen, and powder room. An excellent choice for family vacations. 💎Amanemu's villas and suites are hidden among the mountain scenery, nestled next to the pearl bay view, or surrounded by Japanese gardens. The interior design is simple and elegant, complementing the outdoor scenery. · 【Restaurant】 🔹The restaurant enjoys views of the bay and forest and mainly serves Japanese cuisine, as well as some Western dishes. Mie Prefecture was the royal granary in ancient times. Ise lobsters and black abalone freshly caught from Shima Port, and the long-renowned Matsusaka beef are all local delicacies worth trying. 🔹Amanemu’s Bar: Located next to the swimming pool, it serves Japanese craft beers and creative cocktails 🥂 made with local fruits and herbs. The sunken terrace is also an excellent place to watch the sunset 🌅. · 【Entertainment】 🔺Spa: Autumn and winter are the peak seasons for enjoying the maple leaves and hot springs. In addition to the public hot springs, the hotel's main area has a wellness hot spring area—the 2,000-square-meter Aman Spa, which is the focus and highlight ✨ of this hotel. You are welcome to use the spa, as well as the 33-meter bay infinity pool, Japanese restaurant, bar, and lounge. 🔺Ise-Shima Holy Land: The highest-ranked shrine in Japan. Put on a traditional kimono and follow a professional guide to visit Ise Grand Shrine, watch the morning prayer ceremony and sacrificial dance, and explore the mystery of this sanctuary. 🔺The must-see secret realm "Akame 48 Waterfalls" 🔺Visit the UNESCO World Heritage Site Kumano Kodo 🔺Enjoy a special Amanemu lunch with Ama divers: Visit the Ama hut and experience their simple and mysterious life in depth. (Ama are a special group of female freedivers who make a living by collecting and fishing for deep-sea products.) 🔺The 18-hole Nemu Golf ⛳️ Club on the bay is adjacent to Amanemu. The vast green overlooks the magnificent scenery of the nearby bay for your private enjoyment.

ROYCE WARNER

The province of the Japanese Sea Pearl, see the rice terraces

The province of Japanese sea pearls, see rice terraces worship famous shrines in Mie (三重県) . Mie is a prefecture in the Chubu region has abundant nature, both sea and mountains has historical places to visit, see the way of life of the people is famous for both agriculture and fisheries and has many delicious foods and this place is the origin of the world's first cultured pearls, oh! . · How to get there You can travel from Chubu International Airport Take the train to Nagoya Station (JR Mie Rapid) Get off at Iseshi Station, about 2 hours . Points of interest · Ise Jingu Shrine · Oharaimachi · Maruyama Senmaida Rice Fields · Meoto-iwa Rock · Toba Aquarium · Nagashima Spa Land · Kashiko Island · Nabana no Sato · Mikimoto Pearl Island · Onigajo · Ninja Kingdom Ise . Must-try Mie Food! · Akafuku Mochi with a mangosteen color and a sweet taste · Matsusaka Kyuu One of Japan's most famous beef · Matoya Oyster Another specialty, a sweet and soft oyster

แอ๋น

🇯🇵 Ise Specialty✨Tekone Chaya where you can enjoy Ise Udon and Hand-Kneaded Sushi at the same time

📍Tekonechaya Main Branch Introducing Tekone Sushi Chaya, a restaurant near Ise Grand Shrine! Tekonechaya is located near Ise Grand Shrine, and offers a delicious set meal that combines Ise's famous "Ise udon" and "Tekonechaya" sushi. 😋 It was quite popular at lunchtime, so we had to wait about 15-20 minutes! Thick, soft, and satisfying Ise udon noodles and refreshingly flavored tekone sushi. Both were delicious, and I was very satisfied to be able to enjoy the specialties all at once. ✨ I also had clams and turban shells, which were also excellent. 😋 I had a tatami room, but I was able to relax and enjoy the food. ◎ This is definitely one of the restaurants I'd like to visit again when I visit Ise. 🧚🏻‍♀️ 📍Tekonechaya Main Branch ▪︎ 1-4-22 Uji Urata, Ise City, Mie Prefecture ▪︎ 11:00 AM - 10:00 PM #food #foodtrip #foodlist #couplestrip #girlstrip #deliciousfood #exquisitefood #trip2023 #IseGrandShrine #Ise #IseUdon

韓国住みのジェリーさん

[Mie • Shima] Must-Eats at Shima Spain Village! Top 3 Foodie Recommendations!

If you're heading to Shima Spain Village, you can't just stick to the rides and shows—you’ve got to dive into the food scene! 🎡🍴 From legit Spanish cuisine to local soul food from the Ise-Shima region, there are so many delicious bites to discover! 💕 Here are our top 3 must-try gourmet recommendations! 🥘 ① Paella | Get your authentic Spanish food fix! First up is the paella at restaurant "Alhambra"!! You can enjoy a truly authentic paella right inside a restaurant that feels like you’ve stepped into Spain! ✨ We highly recommend the "Seafood Paella Set: Bounty of the Sea" (2,800 JPY per person)! It’s a decadent dish packed with all that rich seafood umami! · Orders start from 2 people. You can sign up for a specific time slot at the restaurant entrance. For a more casual vibe, the paella at "El Patio" (around 2,000 JPY) is also a great pick! 🥘 🐟 ② Tekone-zushi | The local specialty of Ise-Shima! Believe it or not, you can actually enjoy Ise-Shima’s traditional local dishes right inside Shima Spain Village!! Check out the Tuna Tekone-zushi (2,000 JPY) at the Japanese restaurant "Matoya"! It’s a classic Ise-Shima dish featuring tuna marinated in a savory sauce served over rice! ✨ The set that includes Ise Udon (2,200 JPY) is also a winner! 🍩 ③ Churros | The viral, legendary treat! You can’t talk about Shima Spain Village without mentioning the churros!! They became a massive hit after a popular VTuber dubbed them "the best in the world"! 💕 The texture is absolute perfection—crispy on the outside and chewy on the inside, just like they’re fresh out of the fryer! The specialty shop "Churreria" offers two flavors: cinnamon and chocolate! (600 JPY each). Pro tip: they’re even better with soft-serve ice cream ✨ And wait for it—the churros are so iconic they’ve even been turned into merch!! 😳 At the "Hasta La Vista" shop, you can find "Inedible Churros" (1,200 JPY) to hang on your bag! Whether you're eating them or wearing them, they're a total vibe! 💕 🌟【Summary】 From authentic paella to Ise-Shima specialties and those viral churros! Shima Spain Village is a total foodie paradise!! 🇪🇸✨ Since you're making the trip, make sure to treat yourself to all these amazing eats! 📍 Shima Spain Village / Parque España 📍 Sakazaki, Isobe-cho, Shima City, Mie Prefecture 🚃 Approx. 13 mins by direct bus from Kintetsu Ugata Station ⏰ Hours: Varies by day. 🍽️ Recommended Spots 🥘 Alhambra / El Patio 🐟 Matoya 🍩 Churreria · Menu items, prices, and products are subject to change. Be sure to check the latest info!

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[Ise-Shima] The "Shimakaze" Luxury Sightseeing Express: A Journey That’s Fun Just to Ride!

If you're planning a trip to Ise-Shima, Kintetsu’s "Shimakaze" sightseeing limited express is a must-ride. Connecting Osaka, Kyoto, and Nagoya with Ise-Shima, this special train features luxury seating, stunning views, and even a dining car! 💕 It’s the ultimate sightseeing express where the travel time itself becomes a highlight of your trip. 💺 ① Like a Luxury Hotel! Incredible Seats! The biggest draw of the Shimakaze is undoubtedly the luxurious premium seating!! Unlike standard express trains, it features a spacious three-seat-per-row layout! With 125cm of legroom, it feels incredibly open! The genuine leather seats come with power reclining and leg rests, making them exceptionally comfortable! ✨ Plus, the front and rear cars are observation carriages with massive windows! Taking in the views on the way to Ise-Shima is simply the best! 🌿 🍰 ② The Cake Set in the Dining Car is Perfection! I highly recommend the two-story cafe car!! You can enjoy authentic sweets while watching the scenery pass by from a moving train! 💕 The "Sweets Set" is a top recommendation!! 💰 1,500 yen It’s a lavish set that includes a dessert, a baked treat, and a drink! ☕️ You can enjoy sweets crafted by famous shops along the Osaka, Kyoto, and Nagoya lines, with the menu changing seasonally! The second-floor seats, in particular, offer amazing views through the large windows—it’s like a cafe on wheels! ✨ This kind of elegant train travel is a truly rare experience!! · Note: Sweets sets are exclusive to the cafe seats. Availability varies by train and season. 🍛 ③ Plenty of Meal Options Too! In the cafe car, you can enjoy more than just cake; they serve full meals too! 🥩 Matsusaka Beef Curry: 1,700 yen 🍚 Matsusaka Beef Bowl: 2,000 yen 🦪 Clam Seafood Pilaf: 1,850 yen Being able to taste Ise-Shima specialties and Matsusaka beef right on the train is amazing! It’s perfect for a slightly luxurious lunch! ✨ 🎟️ ④ Things to Know Before You Board! ✅ All seats on the Shimakaze are reserved! ✅ Limited express tickets go on sale at 10:30 AM one month before the departure date! ✅ You’ll need a base fare ticket, a limited express ticket, and a Shimakaze premium car fee! ✅ Cafe seats cannot be reserved in advance! They can get crowded, so I recommend heading there early! Listen for the onboard announcement to know when the cafe opens! 🚆 🌟 [Summary] The "Shimakaze" isn't just a way to get around—riding it is a travel destination in itself!! While the luxury seats are great, my personal favorite is spending time in the cafe car with a cake set! 🍰💕 It’s the perfect addition to a trip to Ise Jingu Shrine or Shima Spain Village. If you’re heading to Ise-Shima, treat yourself to a luxury train journey on the Shimakaze!! ✨ 📍 Kintetsu Sightseeing Limited Express Shimakaze Kintetsu Premium Express SHIMAKAZE 🚆 Routes · Osaka Namba to Kashikojima · Kyoto to Kashikojima · Kintetsu Nagoya to Kashikojima 📍 Also stops at Iseshi, Toba, Ugata, etc. 🎟️ Reservations: Kintetsu Limited Express Ticketless Service, Kintetsu station ticket windows, etc. ⏰ Ticket Sales: From 10:30 AM one month before the travel date. 🍰 Cafe Car: Located onboard. Check onboard announcements for operating hours. · Service days, schedules, menus, and prices are subject to change.

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2.5-Day Ise & Toba Getaway from Osaka with Kintetsu Rail Pass: Rainy Shrines, Toshijima Views, Aquarium, and Ama Hut Seafood

Setting off from Osaka. 2.5-Day Ise & Toba Getaway from Osaka with Kintetsu Rail Pass: Rainy Shrines, Toshijima Views, Aquarium, and Ama Hut Seafood 🦞 Starting from Osaka, the Kintetsu Rail Pass is incredibly convenient—it takes you straight to Ise! Even though the weather didn't cooperate and it rained all day ☔, the vibe was still super chill~ The first stop is Ise Jingu Geku (Outer Shrine). There’s a mysterious and solemn atmosphere here; it’s not flashy, but deeply spiritual ✨. While you're there, try the local specialty, Akafuku—it’s not too sweet and highly recommended! Afterward, you can take a bus directly to Ise Jingu Naiku (Inner Shrine). The Naiku area is huge and lively, and the direct bus at the entrance makes it very convenient. Make sure to leave some time to shop for souvenirs on the street outside. The local udon is famous for being soft—different from the style in Hong Kong—and it’s so good you’ll want more 😋! On day two, head to Toshijima Island. Hiking to the observation deck for the views is fantastic! Unfortunately, the sushi and tofu shops I planned to visit were closed; I’d recommend going on a weekend when there might be more options. Back at Toba Station, check out the Toba Aquarium. It’s home to so many animals—not just fish, but sea lions and penguins too. Definitely worth a visit! Day three was the Ama Hut experience. Besides eating fresh seafood, you get to learn about how the Ama divers catch seafood underwater and even watch them perform a dance. It was so much fun! Later, head to the seafood street next to Toba Station for some lobster 🦞. Even though shops were starting to close and options were a bit limited, you can’t beat fresh seafood~ Quick Tips: · Ise Jingu Geku: 279 Toyokawa-cho, Ise City, Mie Prefecture · Ise Jingu Naiku: 1 Ujitachi-cho, Ise City, Mie Prefecture · Ise Specialty Akafuku: Various branches in Ise City · Toshijima Transport: About a 25-minute boat ride from Toba Port · Toba Aquarium: 3-3-3 Toba, Toba City, Mie Prefecture (Open 9:00-17:00) · Ama Hut Experience: Ama Hut "Osatsu Kamado" in Toba (Reservations recommended) · Seafood Street: Next to Toba Station (Most shops close in the afternoon or evening) This trip really captures that Japanese atmosphere and offers a deep dive into local culture 🧳. Just remember to bring an umbrella, and visiting on a weekend makes it even livelier with more shopping opportunities!

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What people are saying about Ise

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Toba Aquarium

Went to Toba Aquarium for Mei and Kira. There are feeding times you can look out for to see the interactions. You can only see Mei and Kira for 1 min at the front row otherwise you have to queue up again for more viewings. Overall the queue is moving and quite fast. While queuing you still can manage to see them on the live screen. There are other animals as well. It is a pleasant experience with animal shows. There are a few souvenirs shops as well to look around and we bought quite a bit of the merchandise.

Anonymous user

Ise Jingu

Peaceful and spiritual experience, perfect on a weekday!I visited Ise Jingu on a weekday morning in November, and it was incredibly serene. Almost no foreign tourists, and even Japanese visitors weren’t too many during daytime on a weekday — it felt like I had the whole sacred forest to myself. The atmosphere is truly special, with huge ancient trees and pure air. Perfect for forest bathing and just slowing down.Started from Geku (Outer Shrine), which was very quiet and beautiful, then took the bus to Naiku (Inner Shrine). The bus between Geku and Naiku gets quite crowded (especially around 10-11am), and trains (Kintetsu or JR) don’t run very frequently, so transportation is honestly the weakest point. I recommend planning your schedule carefully or having some buffer time.But the best part? Everything is completely free! No entrance fee at all. You can spend hours walking the gravel paths, sitting on benches, listening to the wind and river — it’s incredibly healing. Oh, and don’t miss Oharai-machi and Okage-yokocho near Naiku — great for lunch and souvenirs.Highly recommend coming on a weekday if you want that peaceful, authentic Shinto experience without the crowds. Just be prepared for a bit of hassle with transportation.

Bullfinch

Okage Yokocho Ancient Street

It's a great spot for eating while walking around. The strawberry milk was sweet and delicious. The Snoopy Teahouse also had limited edition Snoopy goods.

_TS***8j

Toyouke Daijingu (Ise Jingu Geku, Outer Sanctuary)

It is a shrine located in Ise City, Mei Prefecture, Japan, and is the head shrine of the approximately 80,000 shrines in Japan. It is called one of the three major shrines of Japan.

ted4049

Sarutahiko Shrine

I went there in the morning. It was a very pleasant shrine. It seems that many famous people come here. I had to queue for a while to get a goshuin.

Black tigeeeeeer

Mikimoto Pearl Island

After getting off the boat, we walked across a covered bridge to the Pearl Museum, where you can see exquisite pearl exhibits and shop for pearls if you need them. We also watched a female divers show, which was performed every hour regardless of the weather or season. The female divers did not use any diving equipment to dive to the bottom of the sea to salvage.

suifeng2019

ISE Sea Paradise

I always find it a little difficult to see animals through glass, but the place is very beautiful, and the staff seemed to take very good care of the animals. I was able to play fetch with dolphins, enjoy watching seals juggling, and touch the skin of a walrus that was roaming almost freely. The zero-distance concept was pretty well respected.

Ugo2911

Asama Mountain View Point

From this observatory you can overlook the panoramic view of Ise Bay. It is really beautiful and has a wide view. It is a good place.

hw9586

Meoto Iwa (Wedded Rocks)

I went there after the event, so it was very quiet. I heard the sunrise is very beautiful, so next time I'll go there to see the sunrise.

おきゅ

Ise FAQ

What currency is used in Ise?

The standard currency in Ise is JPY

How do I exchange currency in Ise?

Current exchange rate approx.: USD ≈158.0JPY (actual exchange rates depend on the bank). Currency exchange tips:
1. Exchange currency at your local bank before departure, as rates are usually better than at the destination.
2. You can also withdraw cash from local ATMs.
3. Avoid exchanging currency at airports or hotels, as they offer the worst rates.