Banko-ware: Pottery of Mie with 300 Years of History

The arts of Mie are the essence of Japan. Ise Katagami stencils revolutionized kimono design, Ise Momen cotton warmed the masses, and Suzuka-zumi ink colored calligraphy brushstrokes. As they rested from their work, these artisans likely sipped te...

Enjoy spring early! Kasamatsu Kawazu-zakura Road and Matsusaka Bell-farm

The weather is getting warmer, and spring is almost here. I wanted to photograph a typical Japanese spring scene, so I went to “Kasamatsu Kawazu-zakura Road,” a famous spot in Matsusaka City that has been the talk of the town on SNS.

Kumano Kodo Iseji Route and Photogenic Spots in Kumano

When you hear the word “Kumano,” you probably associate it with “Kumano Kodo.” On this trip, I walked the Iseji Route, the only route of Kumano Kodo that is in Mie Prefecture.

Taiki private lodging and countryside E-bike tour: A traditional Japanese mountainside life experience through interaction with the locals.

The town of Taiki in Mie Prefecture has long been a transit point between the sacred Kumano and Ise areas. Although it is a small town, it is colored with a deep history and diverse culture that has developed under the watchful eye of the spectacu...

A mother & daughter travelogue: Nourishing body and soul with a “Retreat Stay” at Shima Kanko Hotel

Since opening in 1951, the prestigious Shima Kanko Hotel has welcomed many celebrities over the years, including the Imperial Family. In 2016, it also hosted the G7 Ise-Shima Summit. Set in the grounds of Ise-Shima National Park overlooking Ago Ba...

Taking the first step! The story of Takigawa YORIAI, a general incorporated association running the “Akame 48 Waterfalls Campsite”, a fun community stopover

Nabari City, located in the Iga region of western Mie Prefecture, is within an hour's train ride to Osaka. Located halfway between the city and countryside, it’s blessed with an abundance of water and forest villages. Here, the Akame 48 Waterfalls...

Sustainability and Forest Tourism in Mie

Japan is an island nation covered 70% by forests and mountains and Mie in particular has an ancient history and culture of forestry and wood artistry. Connect in a deeper way with local mountain culture and gain a unique perspective during your ad...

Wellness, Connecting with Nature, and a “Grand” Stay in Mie

Mie is full of natural wonders, delicious food, and kind hospitality. The coastal towns, ocean spirit and deep forests can be a wonderful place to relax, refresh and discover moments of peace and connection. Enjoying a unique yoga program and then...

Finding Adventure in the Forests of Mie

The forests of Mie are famous in history and legend. Trees and forestry are a big part of the culture throughout the prefecture. There are also new and exciting ways to celebrate the natural wonders of Mie and learn about yourself along the way. E...

Cycling and A Spa Stay That Was So Much more

Spending the day and an overnight in Komono Town, Mie was filled with explorations, relaxation and delicious discoveries. It was amazing to pedal around “off the beaten track” and then enjoy all the amazing options and possibilities at Aqua Ignis ...

Time Travel by Boat and Unique Shopping in Ise

Ise Jingu is a destination for local and global travelers. The area is rich with history, artistry, and local delicious foods. Step back in time on a unique boat tour and then make the most of the amazing shops and dishes in the area with a unique...

Kayaking the Coast of Kihoku

For my final day in Mie, I’ll be exploring the Kihoku area on a bright and sunny day. We’ll start the day with a kayak ride on the coast, passing by multiple remote islands, then having lunch at a local Hawaiian cafe ”Douze Shokudo”with the be...

Visiting a Katana Swordsmith

Today, I had the opportunity to partake in some rare experiences. There is a katana swordsmith deep in the mountains of Kumano, who offers tours of his workplace and shares his knowledge about the katana making process. This tour is said to be...

River Activities at Mie’s Beautiful Nature: Odai

River activities are one of my favorite activities during summer. It’s a great way to escape the summer heat and refresh yourself while being active and enjoying the great outdoors. Last summer, I had the opportunity to try some interesting ri...

The Sacred Shirataki Meditation and Temple in the Sky

Within the mountains of Toba lies a sacred waterfall where people have come to meditate for the past 1000 years. The mountain range expands out from the Ise Grand shrine and in this area, nature itself was once worshiped as a god. Many resolve...

Outdoor Activities at Meiwacho

After spending the whole morning and afternoon cycling around Meiwacho and visiting many different cultural spots, it was now time to head over to the coast to enjoy some barbecue at a campsite and try out a tent sauna. Finally, to end the day...

Cycling around Mie’s Historic Town: Meiwacho

For my first day in Mie, I visited the historic town of Meiwacho! For a small town overshadowed between 2 big cities: Matsusaka and Ise, Meiwacho had so much to offer and played an incredibly important role in Japan’s history. We rented some...

Bringing the ama culture to the world! This is the story of a mother and son at Hachiman Kamado, an ama hut where people gather with smiles.

The Ise-Shima region is a scenic area where the sunshine pours down on the ria coast of the sea and mountains. It is also famous as a tourist destination with the Ise Jingu Shrine and the resort town of Kashikojima. In 2019, The divers of Toba an...

Fully enjoy nature in Iga no Sato Mokumoku Tezukuri Farm!

Get in touch with your inner farmer and immerse yourself in hands-on food-making workshops, getting acquainted with animals, and being in nature. Iga no Sato Mokumoku Tezukuri Farm, also known as Mokumoku Farm, an agricultural park located in Ig...

The Story of “Irokuma.” A serving of humanity, nature, and daily life in the countryside.

Kumano City, located in the southern part of Mie Prefecture, is a region rich in history and culture. Time passes slowly here. It is home to several World Heritage Sites, including the ancient pilgrimage pathway “Kumano Kodo”, Onigajo, and Hana-no...