Ise Grand Shrine (Ise Jingū) is considered the pinnacle of Shinto spirituality and Japan’s most important religious site. Located in the tranquil city of Ise in Mie Prefecture, the shrine complex encompasses over 125 subsidiary shrines surrounded by ancient forests and clear rivers.

The heart of Ise Jingū lies in its two main sanctuaries:

• Naikū (Inner Shrine), dedicated to Amaterasu Ōmikami, the Sun Goddess and ancestral deity of the Imperial Family; and
• Gekū (Outer Shrine), dedicated to Toyouke-no-Ōmikami, the goddess of food, clothing, and shelter.

A unique feature of Ise Jingū is the Shikinen Sengū, a ritual rebuilding of the shrine’s main structures every 20 years. This practice, ongoing for more than 1,300 years, symbolizes renewal and the passing down of traditional craftsmanship through generations.

Visitors often describe the atmosphere as deeply spiritual, with paths lined by towering cedars, gentle streams, and bridges leading to sacred precincts. The shrine is also home to the Sacred Mirror (Yata no Kagami), one of the Three Imperial Regalia of Japan, making it an essential destination for both faith and heritage.

• From Nagoya Station, take the Kintetsu Limited Express or JR Rapid Mie train to Ise-shi Station (about 1 hour 30 minutes). From there, local buses or taxis can take you to Gekū (Outer Shrine) in about 5 minutes. To reach Naikū (Inner Shrine), continue by bus for another 10–15 minutes.
• Travelers from Osaka or Kyoto can reach Ise by Kintetsu Railway with direct limited express trains taking around 2 to 2.5 hours.

• Follow the traditional visiting order: Gekū first, then Naikū.

• Early morning visits offer the most peaceful experience and soft light for photography.

• Dress respectfully and avoid taking photos in restricted sacred areas.

• Combine your visit with nearby attractions such as Okage Yokocho and Oharaimachi Street for local cuisine and souvenirs.

• Consider visiting during the Kagura dance rituals or the Shikinen Sengū period for rare cultural insights.

Admission Fee:

• Free of charge

Opening Time:

• Daily from 5:00 AM to 6:00 PM (hours may vary slightly by season)