Overview
This value-packed trip with a government-licensed and experienced English-speaking tour guide is a fantastic and efficient way to explore Ise area! The city houses the Japan’s most sacred Shinto shrine that is about 2000 years old. The shrine is the center of major religious and spiritual activities. The Ise trip is incomplete without paying respect to the supreme deity Amaterasu Omikami (the sun goddess) . You will also come across the traditional Japanese foods and history while visiting Okage Yokocho street. Let us know what special requests you have for the day and we will customize your itinerary in advance! Please be aware the this tour is on foot/with public transport. Ise Jingu Shrine also requires walking long distances in the shrine.
Why travelers book this
What's Included
- Customizable itinerary (4h: 2–3 sites, 6h: 3–4 sites)
- Meet up with guide on foot within designated area of Ise
- Licensed Local English Speaking Guide
What's Not Included
- Transportation fees, Entrance fees, Lunch, and Other personal expenses
- Private transportation
- You cannot combine multiple tour groups.
- Guide Entry fees are only covered for sights listed under What to Expect.
Meeting & Pickup
Meeting point, pickup options and start time are confirmed on Viator before checkout.
Itinerary
Stop 1
The Ise trip is incomplete without paying respect to the supreme deity Amaterasu Omikami (the sun goddess) enshrined at Naiku. Naiku is one of the two major shrines of Ise Shrines and is officially known as Kotai Jingu. This is considered as the most sacred shrine in Japan where millions of visitors arrive every month to worship for prosperity, peace and spirituality.
Stop 2
The Ise trip is incomplete without paying respect to the supreme deity Amaterasu Omikami (the sun goddess) enshrined at Naiku. Naiku is one of the two major shrines of Ise Shrines and is officially known as Kotai Jingu. This is considered as the most sacred shrine in Japan where millions of visitors arrive every month to worship for prosperity, peace and spirituality.
Stop 3
Naiku shrine is not only the shrine, in fact it has much more in terms of purification and nature. The Isuzugawa River runs along the grounds of Naiku shrine and is widely visited by the pilgrims or tourists in order to have a purified cleaning.Walking alongside this river will give you a scenic view of the natural beauty and you will definitely be enthralled. This view is enhanced during the season of Cherry blossoms.
Stop 4
Okage Yokocho is an alleyway or street built in 1993 in front of Naiku gate of Ise grand shrine. The street has relocated the townscape of Ise in the Edo to Meiji periods. There are different shops including restaurants, shops selling candles, handicrafts, souvenirs and a museum as well. You will come across the traditional Japanese foods and history while visiting this street. Here at the center of the district, a live performance of Taiko drums is held on weekends and national holidays.
Stop 5
When you are near Futami (a small town in Ise city, you must not miss out the opportunity to view the scenic beauty of Meoto Iwa (wedded rocks) in the ocean. These are two sacred rocks, the larger one is considered the husband while the smaller one is wife. They both are connected with a Shimenawa rope. This rope is replaced three times a year in a ceremony held for this spiritual purpose. Moreover, the splendid view of the sun rising between the two rocks sounds truly amazing. If you find this chance, you must experience this beauty.
Stop 6
Hinjitsukan is a historic guesthouse that once hosted imperial family members and distinguished guests, offering a glimpse into Japan’s Meiji-era elegance. Visitors can explore its beautifully preserved tatami rooms, admire intricate woodwork, and experience the refined atmosphere of traditional Japanese architecture.
Stop 7
Futami Okitama Shrine is a historic Shinto shrine famous for the Meoto Iwa (Married Couple Rocks), which serve as a symbolic torii gate to the sacred Okino-shiraishi rock in the sea. It is known for blessings of marital harmony, good relationships, and purification before visiting Ise Jingu.
Important Information
- Service animals allowed
- Public transportation options are available nearby
- Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
- All areas and surfaces are wheelchair accessible
- Transportation options are wheelchair accessible
- Wheelchair accessible
- Suitable for all physical fitness levels
- The pick-up/meetup for this tour is on foot/public transport.