The sacred path of Ise

  • Duration : 3 days
  • Locations : Ise, Mie Prefecture

This 3-day itinerary immerses you in the spiritual heart of Japan, exploring the sacred sites of Ise Jingu. Experience traditional rituals, delve into the history and culture of the shrines, and savor local delicacies like Ise udon. 

The shrine's history dates back approximately 2,000 years, making it a central place of worship in Shintoism, and a a significant cultural and spiritual landmark. A distinctive feature of Ise Jingu is the "Shikinen Sengu", a ritual held every 20 years in which the shrine buildings are reconstructed anew, symbolising the Shinto concepts of death and renewal as it has been practiced for centuries.

Hike Mount Asama for breathtaking views or explore nearby temples and shrines. This journey offers a unique blend of cultural immersion, spiritual exploration, and natural beauty.


3 days & 2 nights itinerary in and around Ise, Mie Prefecture

  • Departure city : Nagoya
  • Ise
  • Return city : Nagoya

Please find detailed itinerary information below.


Why choose this excursion to Japan ? 

  1. Immerse yourself in the sacred rituals and the rich history of Ise Jingu, one of Japan's most important shrines.
  2. Engage in traditional practices and experience the unique cultural heritage of Ise.
  3. From the serene beauty of the coastline to the tranquil forests, enjoy the diverse landscapes of Ise.
  4. Savor the flavors of Mie Prefecture, including renowned dishes like Ise udon and Matsusaka beef.
  5. Many recommendations available in your digital travel guidebook.

Your excursion in detail

Itinerary

  • Day 1 : First step in Mie Prefecture

    The train will depart from Nagoya Station and head to Futamino-Ura Station in Ise, Mie prefecture.

    You will leave your luggage in a coin locker and stroll leisurely along the Married Couple Rocks pathway, culminating at an iconic shrine. There, you will participate in a traditional misogi purification ritual and gain a deeper understanding of its historical significance for the Japanese people.

    After arriving at Ise-shi Station, proceed to the Geku Outer Shrine and offer your gratitude to Toyoke Omikami, the protector of food, clothing, shelter, and industry. From there, you will also have the opportunity to explore the surrounding shrines and experience the divine virtues of each deity.

    Conclude the day by savouring delicious local cuisine, such as Ise udon and tekonezushi.

  • Day 2 : Entering the sacred world

    Start your day by witnessing the serene morning and evening rituals of offering food to the gods at the Geku Outer Shrine. It's a private ceremony for the eyes of the Gods only, but you can see the procession of priests heading inside the shrine where they will offer food to the Gods

    Next, visit the Naiku Inner Shrine to offer your gratitude and prayers to Amaterasu Omikami, the deity of all Japan.

    Cross the cypress bridge, calming your mind before entering the sacred world of the Inner Shrine, considered the holiest site in Japan. Explore the Shogu and other significant shrines within the complex.

    Then, stroll through the charming Okage Yokocho, a historic street reminiscent of the Edo period.

    Deepen your understanding of Ise Jingu's history and culture at a dedicated museum and gain insights into the shrine's significance before heading to your hotel. 

  • Day 3 : Last moment in the serenity of Ise

    In the morning, you will visit neighbouring significant places of worship, including local temples and shrines, and reflect on the unique spiritual energy of each location.

    Or, on a clear day, embark on a scenic hike up Mount Asama to detoxify your mind and immerse yourself in the serene atmosphere of this marvellous site.

    After completing your morning activities, you can either return to Nagoya by train or continue your journey to another destination.

    Included in your self-guided excursion

  • Accommodation

    - 2 nights in traditional Japanese accommodation "ryokan"

    The base rate includes a twin room.

  • Transport

    - Round-trip train to and from Nagoya, seats reserved in standard-class

  • Visit & meals

    - Traditional breakfasts included at the ryokan

    Other services

  • Other services

    - Complete digital travel guide sent before your departure

    - Bilingual English and Japanese telephone support is available 7 days a week, from 9 AM to 6 PM

  • Not included in the price of your excursion

    - Optional insurance 

    - Personal expenses, including lunches (you will find addresses selected by us in your travel pack) 

    - Entrance fees to museums, gardens or temples 

    - Access to internet (Pocket WiFi or SIM card) 

    - Everything not included in the "Included in your excursion" section

More information about your trip

Your excursion:

- The prices shown on this page may vary according to the Japanese ¥ exchange rate. 

- Unfortunately, this tour is not accessible to people with reduced mobility. 

- Children aged 3 and over are able to participate. Child rates available for children ages 3 to 11 included.

- Unfortunately, pets are not allowed on this excursion.

- This program may be subject to changes due to imperatives such as weather conditions or other vents. Please note that all mentioned information is subject to change or adaptation. 

- In order to benefit from an internet connection, book a Pocket WiFi or SIM card with Japan Experience. 

- This tour must be booked at least 45 days before the start date of the tour. 

- Your travel documents will be sent to you by email before your departure.


Your accommodation:

- Some hotels may ask you to pay a tourist tax on arrival. This depends on the town and even the hotel, as some do not include it in the cost of the reservation. It generally amounts to ¥200/night/person (about €1.60) but may be a little higher in 4-star hotels. It must be paid in cash at the hotel reception. 

- Single room: People travelling alone and/or wishing to book a single room must pay a supplement at the time of booking. Please note that a single room supplement for an order of more than 2 people will be applied in all accommodation except ryokan (3 and 4*). As this is traditional accommodation, people with the same reservation are grouped together in spacious rooms that can accommodate up to 5 people. 

- 3-person room: If there are 3, 5 or more of you and you do not select the single supplement, you will be allocated a triple room. 

- Hotel names: The names given on the site are for information only. In the event of unavailability, an establishment of equivalent standing will be scheduled. 


Your transport:

- Round-trip train to and from Nagoya, seats reserved in standard-class.


Your meals:

- Traditional breakfasts included at the ryokan.

- For other meals, you will find addresses selected by us in your travel diary.


Cancellation policy:

A 30% deposit is required at the time of booking to confirm your reservation. The remaining balance must be paid in full no later than 35 days before the departure date.

In case of cancellation, the following fees apply:

  • 15% for bookings canceled more than 35 days in advance;
  • 50% for cancellations between 35 and 21 days prior to the departure date;
  • 75% for cancellations between 20 and 8 days prior to the departure date;
  • 100% for cancellations within 7 days of the departure date.

These fees are calculated on the total price of the excursion, excluding insurance.

- Pre-paid local bus journeys with your travel card.

The sacred path of Ise

From
$260

Optional services

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