Visit Mie: what to do and see in the hidden gems

Ise is a must-see in Mie Prefecture. This small town is best known as the home of the Ise Jingu shrine, a legendary Shinto shrine, and arguably the most important in Japan. The 2000-year-old shrine is divided into 125 pavilions. In total, its area is equivalent to that of the center of Paris! More than 1,500 rituals are held here each year, some in honor of the imperial family, others to ensuregood harvests across the country. While in town, take the opportunity to stroll through the small historic district of Oharai-machi and Okage-yokocho.

VISON is a large commercial complex, created to showcase the artisanal skills and products of Mie Prefecture.

VISON isa 30-minute drive from Matsusaka and is also easily accessible by bus.

There isa traditional market, a large number of shops, a hotel, cafes, relaxation areas and various experiential facilities, to keep you busy for the day. It is a great place to walk around and talk to the craftsmen and also to the women who sell their amazing products.

The aim of VISON is to bring together local producers and nature-conscious designers; giving them a real visibility and an opportunity to attract a wider public.

The Norimomo shop, for example, wishes to give nori (seaweed) its rightful place. The seaweed with many virtues is being given a new lease of life thanks to a new packaging and various combinations of flavor.

Matsusakais a charming city, to be discovered on foot to stroll along the old streetsand to discover a variety of craft shops. You can visit the old street once inhabited by samurai, but also a few old merchant houses (the region was very famous for its trade). Take a break to taste the famous Matsuzaka beef, one of the best Japanese Wagyu. Then head to Matsusaka Castle, explore the old castlegrounds and visit the Museun of Motoori Norinaga, featuring the writings andmaps of Motoori Norinaga, a famous Japanese scholar.

Shirataki Daimyojin - The Sacred Shirataki Meditation, Meditate under a waterfall

If you're looking for something out of the ordinary, how about meditating under awaterfall? Yes, you heard it right. A 30-minute drive from Ise (1 hour by train), discover a secluded spot in the middle of nature. Between the trees winds a stream fed by a waterfall, on either side of the bank small huts are installed that are used as sauna. The place still remains a secret, but is gaining in popularity, as it offers a complete experience to recharge your batteries away from the worries of everyday life. It is possible to choose only the "sauna" experience or the "meditation under thewaterfall" experience, or to enjoy the wonderful contrast of the two combined. Afterwards, you can sit back and relax on a few sun-loungers by the water and let the sounds of nature soothe you.

A group of intrepid and supportive women, the ama fisher-women are present in several coastal areas of Japan, the most of whom work in Mie. Visit the "Ama Hut" Hachiman Kamado, on the shore of Matoya Bay, to enjoy a meal of seafood caught by these amazing women. If you would like to know more about female ama divers, please read our dedicated article on the subject!

The prefecture has many culinary assets. If you are passionate about cooking and flavors, discover the secrets of making Katsuobushi! This dried and smoked bonito fishis used in the preparation of dashi,a traditional broth with a unique taste that is a must in Japanese gastronomy.Visit the 100-year-old smoking workshop and learn more about the history of Katsuobushi and its various uses.

Another unique experience if you visit Mie is the making of pearl jewelry.

With yourfamily or as a couple, discover the pearl house in a small cove at the end ofthe world! Here, the long process of breeding pearl oysters and harvesting pearls will be explained to you with great patience and kindness. You can also choose an oyster, open it yourself and discover a pearl that you can then set into the jewelry of your choice: a pendant, a ring, etc.

Yes, it is also possible to surf in Mie! Mie's eastern coastline is famous for its exceptional surf spots. If you are sportive, we advise you to check the weather, put on your bathing suit and head to the beaches!

As you have seen, Mie is generous with nature lovers. We personally recommend the Tomoyama Park, which offers several trails and a magical view of Ago Bay and the many uninhabited islands that dot the sea. You can also enjoy a variety of outdoor activity programs with an eco-tourism theme.

The pretty little heart-shaped island is undoubtedly the ideal refuge for a weekend of disconnect. Enjoy the beach, picnics and afternoon sports or just pure relaxation.

Much further north, explore Kamishima, a little jewel lost in the middle of the water that you will have to earn. There you can enjoy a wonderful hike along the cliffs (weather permitting, of course).

We hope we've given you the opportunity to discover this peaceful but far from boring little corner of Japan! If you want to know more about what's going on in thearea, including initiatives (like the Shima Road Party marathon, scheduled forApril, 2023) and seasonal festivals, check out the "Visit Mie Japan,"or "Visit ISESHIMA" tourism websites!