Ise 
Ise is a coastal town in the scenic Ise-Shima National Park. The town shares its name with the myth-enveloped shrine which is visited by millions of Japanese each year.

“This historic seaside town, home to the shrine of the Sun Goddess, is descended on by millions of pilgrims each year and is well worth a visit”
Paul O'Brien, Sales Team Leader
The shrine is dedicated to the Sun Goddess, Amaterasu-Omikami, who was once considered a founder of the Japanese nation and a direct blood relation of the Imperial Family. Pilgrims have been coming for centuries; it's the most important site in Shinto religion. As a power-spot, it outshines all others.
You cannot see inside the shrine, but walking around the sheltered wooden structures watching pilgrims paying their respects is fascinating. After the shrine, a visit to the old merchants' district of Okage Yokocho is recommended to take your mind to more earthly matters. Think fresh seafood snacks and traditional craftwork.
Hiking trails in the hills are also a popular diversion. A trip up the 500 metre peak at Mount Asama promises spectacular views of the coastline. Ise is part of a National Park with a range of day-tip options including boat cruises, island visits and eating grilled seafood with women pearl divers in nearby Toba.
Ise enjoys direct train links to Kyoto, Osaka and Nagoya making it an easy stop between these destinations.
For more information email us: info@insidejapantours.com or call: + 44 117 244 3380
Recommended Accommodation in Ise
The following are our favourites from among the western-style hotels and Japanese-style inns of Ise.
Featured trips including Ise
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Self-Guided Adventure
Pilgrim's Paths (Classic)
- Tokyo
- Kyoto
- Mount Koya
- Kawayu Onsen
- Yunomine Onsen
- Nachi
- Ise
- Tokyo
Join the ranks of the junreisha, or pilgrims, as you explore Ise, Mount Koya and the ancient paths of the Kumano Kodo on this classic trip.
14 nights: from US$4934 pp (twin share) Read more >
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Self-Guided Adventure
Pilgrim's Paths (Superior)
- Tokyo
- Kyoto
- Mount Koya
- Kawayu Onsen
- Yunomine Onsen
- Kii-Katsuura
- Ise
- Tokyo
Follow in the footsteps of Japanese royalty as you tread the pilgrimage paths of the Kumano Kodo, with superior accommodation and cuisine included.
14 nights: from US$8166 pp (twin share) Read more >