Top Things to Do in Mie, Japan – Shrines, Nature, and Theme Parks in One Prefecture
Mie Prefecture is in the center of Japan.
It has shrines, sea views, flower parks, and large theme parks.
Ise Grand Shrine is one of the most important places in Japan.
Meanwhile, Nagashima Spa Land is one of the largest amusement parks in the country.
Because of this, Mie offers both quiet places and active places in one area.
This guide shows the main places to visit in Mie.
Ise Grand Shrine
Ise Grand Shrine is the most important Shinto shrine in Japan.
It honors Amaterasu, the sun goddess.
The shrine area has two main parts.
These are Naiku (Inner Shrine) and Geku (Outer Shrine).
Both areas are inside a forest and next to a river.
Therefore, the space feels quiet and natural, even though many people visit.
Official Site: Ise Grand Shrine
Okage Yokocho
Okage Yokocho is a street near the Naiku area of Ise Grand Shrine.
It looks like a town from the Edo period.
There are many shops and restaurants on this street.
For example, visitors can eat Ise udon and buy local snacks.
After visiting Ise Grand Shrine, many people walk here.
Therefore, this street is part of the usual travel route.
Official Site: Okage Yokocho
Mikimoto Pearl Island
Mikimoto Pearl Island is where cultured pearls began.
It is also the home of the Mikimoto brand.
The island has a museum, jewelry shops, and diving shows.
In these shows, ama divers collect pearls from the sea.
Additionally, the museum explains how pearls grow.
Official Site: Mikimoto Pearl Island
＼ Planning to travel around Kansai by train?／
Easy access to Osaka, Kyoto, Nara, and Ise
Nabana no Sato
Nabana no Sato is a flower park in Mie.
It is also famous for winter lights.
From spring to autumn, the park shows many types of flowers.
However, from late autumn to spring, large light displays fill the park.
The tunnel of lights is one of the main features.
Official Site: Nabana no Sato
Nagashima Spa Land
Nagashima Spa Land is one of the largest theme parks in Japan.
It has many roller coasters and rides.
Next to the park, there is an outlet mall and an onsen area.
Because of this, visitors can shop and relax on the same day.
Therefore, this area works well for both families and solo travelers.
Official Site: Nagashima Spa Land
FAQ
Yes, the Kintetsu Limited Express runs from Osaka-Namba Station to Iseshi Station in about 90 minutes.
Therefore, the shrine is easy to reach for a day trip.
It serves as the main spiritual center of Shinto in Japan, and it honors Amaterasu, the sun goddess.
Therefore, many people visit it to pray for peace and public happiness.
The area offers rich seafood and long religious history, so it feels both natural and sacred.
Additionally, it has some of the oldest Shinto shrines in Japan.
People pray for public peace and good fortune rather than only personal wishes.
However, visitors can also offer special prayers through kagura.