Understand

Explore the fascinating history of Ise Shrine, one of Japan's most sacred and ancient sites. Believed to have been originally constructed in 4 BC, this shrine has deep historical and religious significance. Some historians date the shrines from 690 AD, while others believe that the worship of the Sacred Mirror began even earlier at this very place. Divided into two parts, the Naiku and the Geku, the shrine is mentioned in the annals of the Kojiki and Nihonshoki, dating back to 712. Inside the shrine, you'll find sacred objects of the royal family, including a covered mirror that hasn't been looked into for over a thousand years. But what makes this shrine even more extraordinary is that it is meticulously dismantled and rebuilt every 20 years to maintain its perfection. Witness the incredible craftsmanship and dedication that goes into this process, a tradition carried out for centuries. The most recent iteration of the shrine was completed in 1993, marking the 61st reconstruction. Get ready for the next rebuilding in 2013, a once-in-a-lifetime event that you won't want to miss! While you wait, immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of Ise and its many annual events, most of which are related to the shrine. Don't miss the Kagurasai Ceremony in April, a mesmerizing display of dance, music, noh, shigin, and flower arrangement. And in July, marvel at the Miya River Fireworks Festival, where top fireworks producers showcase their original and unique creations. Plus, mark your calendars for the autumn version of the Kagurasai Ceremony in September. Prepare to be captivated by the rich cultural experiences that await you in Ise.

Map & Climate

Popular Foods

Sushi: Sushi is a traditional Japanese dish consisting of vinegared rice served with various toppings, typically fish or seafood. The rice is usually accompanied by a small piece of nori (seaweed) and sometimes features a dab of wasabi, pickled ginger, or soy sauce. There are many variations, including nigiri (hand-pressed sushi), maki (rolled sushi), and sashimi (slices of raw fish).

Ramen: Ramen is a widely popular soup dish in Japan that includes Chinese-style wheat noodles served in a meat or fish-based broth. It is often garnished with ingredients such as pork, dried seaweed, menma (fermented soybean paste), scallions, and miso paste. The dish can be found in various styles, including tonkotsu (pork bone broth), shoyu (soy sauce broth), and miso.

Tempura: Tempura is a deep-fried dish where seafood, vegetables, or mushrooms are battered and then cooked in hot oil. The light, crispy batter turns golden brown and creates a contrast with the soft textures of the ingredients inside. Traditional tempura elements include shrimp, sweet potato, pumpkin, spinach, and green beans. It is typically served with a dipping sauce made from soy sauce, Mirin, and dashi.

Historical Appearance

Traditional Male Clothing

Traditional Female Clothing