Located in a region where history and nature harmonize, Mie Prefecture boasts numerous shrines and temples, including Ise Grand Shrine. Beyond enjoying traditional culture and delicious local cuisine, visitors can explore attractions like Iga Ninja traditions, the picturesque coast of the Shima Peninsula, and the historic Kumano Kodo trail. Famous for specialties like Ise Ebi (spiny lobster) and Matsusaka beef, Mie offers diverse tourist and hot spring destinations. From the vibrant Toba Aquarium and the Spanish-themed Shima Spain Village to the popular Suzuka Circuit for racing enthusiasts, Mie presents a range of captivating experiences. Each area unfolds unique charms, making it an ideal destination for history, culture, and nature enthusiasts.
１．Ise Grand Shrine
Ise Grand Shrine is Japan’s oldest and most sacred shrine, popular among foreign tourists for its historical and mystical ambiance. Referred to as ‘O-Ise-san,’ it encompasses 125 shrines around Ise City. The central shrines are the ‘Naiku’ (Inner Shrine) dedicated to the sun goddess Amaterasu, with a history spanning around 2,000 years, and the ‘Geku’ (Outer Shrine).
２．Toba Aquarium
Known for having the highest number of species in Japan, Toba Aquarium offers dynamic shows and beautiful exhibits, providing a delightful experience for foreign visitors exploring with family and friends. With around 1,200 species, the aquarium features unique attractions like manatees and chambered nautiluses.
３．Shima Spain Village
Boasting Spanish-style buildings and entertainment, Shima Spain Village creates an exotic atmosphere appreciated by foreign tourists. Centered around ‘Parque Espana’ with diverse attractions, it also includes Hotel Shima Spain Village and the Ise Shima Hot Spring ‘Himawari no Yu.’ Flamenco shows and events like fireworks and projection mapping are highlights.
４．Suzuka Circuit
A mecca for motorsports, Suzuka Circuit is a must-visit for foreign motor enthusiasts. The international racing course hosts major events like the Suzuka 8 Hours Endurance Race and Formula Nippon. The amusement park ‘Motopia’ with 30 attractions is also part of the circuit.
５．Nabana no Sato
A theme park of flowers and greenery, Nabana no Sato features Japan’s largest flower field showcasing beautiful blooms throughout the seasons. With a collection of hundreds of species and around 12,000 begonias gathered from around the world, it offers day-use hot springs, a craft beer garden, and restaurants. The illuminations are a must-see.
６．Okage Yokocho
Situated midway between Ise Grand Shrine’s Inner and Outer Shrines, Okage Yokocho is a town where representative buildings from the Edo to Meiji periods along the Ise Road have been relocated or reproduced.
７．Yokkaichi Complex
Japan’s first petrochemical complex built in the 1950s. Once infamous for air pollution, it has now regained a healthy environment and is known for its factory night view. The night view from the Yokkaichi Port Building Observatory ‘Umiterasu 14’ is a must-see.
８．Gozaisho Ropeway
Connecting Yunoyama Onsen to the summit of Mt. Gozaisho at an altitude of 1,212 meters, the ropeway covers a distance of 2,161 meters in about 12 minutes. The mountaintop also features the only ski resort in the prefecture.
９．Iga-ryu Ninja Museum
Showcasing the world’s largest collection of ninja artifacts, the Iga-ryu Ninja Museum offers demonstrations of various ninja tricks, guided by a female ninja, with performances including trapdoors and hidden mechanisms.
１０．Ise Sea Paradise
Visitors can get up close and personal with marine animals like seals, sea lions, and walruses, feeling their warmth. The facility was renamed from ‘Futami Sea Paradise’ in April 2016.