Oharaimachi (おはらい町) is a beautifully preserved historical street in Ise City, Mie Prefecture. Stretching for about one kilometer, it serves as the traditional approach to Ise Jingu’s Inner Shrine (Naiku), Japan’s most sacred Shinto sanctuary. The area retains the charming townscape of the Edo (1603–1868) and Meiji (1868–1912) periods, with wooden houses, tiled roofs, cobblestone paths, and lively shops that make visitors feel as if they’ve stepped back in time.

The street is always bustling with pilgrims and tourists, especially on weekends and holidays, yet it maintains a warm, spiritual atmosphere. Running parallel to the serene Isuzu River, Oharaimachi offers a perfect blend of sacred history, cultural beauty, and riverside calm — ideal for leisurely exploration.

The Spirit of Gratitude and Hospitality
At the heart of Oharaimachi lies Okage Yokocho, which means “Side Street of Gratitude.” This area was designed to reflect the kindness and generosity of the Ise townspeople who once welcomed weary pilgrims. The district recreates the spirit of Edo and Meiji Japan with its nostalgic streets, charming eateries, souvenir shops, museums, and cultural performances such as Taiko drumming and Kamishibai (paper storytelling).

Must-Try Local Foods:

• Akafuku Mochi: A soft mochi rice cake topped with smooth red bean paste — the centuries-old main store, Akafuku Honten, is located here.

• Ise Udon: Thick, soft noodles served in a rich, dark soy-based sauce.

• Tekone-zushi: A regional sushi bowl topped with marinated raw fish.

• Street Snacks (Tabe-aruki): Try Matsusaka beef skewers, croquettes from the famous Buta-sute shop, seafood-flavored soft-serve, and local craft beer or sake.

Top Activities in Oharaimachi:

• Walk the Entire Oharaimachi Street: Enjoy traditional wooden buildings and a mix of old sweet shops and modern boutiques.

• Explore Okage Yokocho: Discover its nostalgic streets, restaurants, museums, and unique Ise-Shima crafts.

• Visit Okage-za Mythical Hall: Learn about Japanese mythology and the sacred history of Ise Jingu.

• Morning Pilgrimage (Tsuitachi Mairi): On the first day of each month, shops open early for a morning market, offering a peaceful and spiritual start to the day.

• Stroll Along the Isuzu River: Step away from the crowds and enjoy the tranquil riverside, especially near the Uji Bridge entrance to Ise Jingu.

• From Ise-shi Station or Ujiyamada Station, take a bus to Naiku-mae (Ise Jingu Inner Shrine) and walk a few minutes to reach Oharaimachi. If driving, it’s about a 10-minute ride from central Ise City.

• Visit early in the morning to enjoy peaceful streets and soft light for photography.

• Don’t miss tasting Akafuku Mochi from the original store.

• Bring some cash, as many local shops may not accept cards.

• Visiting during Tsuitachi Mairi (First Day Pilgrimage) offers a uniquely sacred experience.

Admission Fee:

• Free entry (the street is open to the public).

Opening Time:

• Most shops open from around 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. (Hours may vary by season or holidays.)