Mie, located in central Japan, is a spiritual and cultural treasure. The Ise Grand Shrine, dedicated to the sun goddess Amaterasu, is Japan’s most sacred Shinto site and a must-visit for its serene atmosphere. Nearby, Okage Yokocho offers a taste of Edo-period charm with traditional shops and eateries. The coastal town of Toba is home to Mikimoto Pearl Island and the Toba Aquarium. Mie’s Kumano Kodo pilgrimage routes, a UNESCO World Heritage site, take hikers through lush forests and ancient shrines. Visitors can also enjoy Matsusaka beef, one of Japan’s most renowned delicacies.
Tsu, the capital city of Mie Prefecture, has a rich samurai and castle town history. It features historical attractions like Tsu Castle ruins and Mitake Shrine. As a coastal city, it also offers seafood delicacies and access to Ise Bay. Tsu serves as a transportation hub for reaching Ise, Matsusaka, and other key destinations in Mie. The city is known for its calm residential atmosphere and traditional events like Tōkaichi Festival.
Yokkaichi is a major industrial city in Mie Prefecture, located along Ise Bay. Known for its petrochemical complexes and as a center of logistics and manufacturing, the city also holds historical and cultural value. The Suwa Shrine and the Yokkaichi Festival bring together tradition and local pride. Despite its urban character, parks like Tarusaka and waterfront areas offer relaxing spaces. The city is also noted for air pollution issues in the past, which led to important environmental reforms.
Ise is a spiritually significant city in Japan, home to the Ise Grand Shrine (Ise Jingu), one of the most sacred Shinto shrines. Pilgrims and tourists visit year-round to experience its serene atmosphere. The Okage Yokocho district recreates an Edo-period townscape with local food, crafts, and shops. The city's history, cultural preservation, and natural beauty along the Isuzu River make it a deeply immersive destination. It’s also near Meoto Iwa, the “wedded rocks,” which are a symbol of unity and love.
Matsusaka is famed for its premium Matsusaka beef, considered one of the top-quality wagyu brands in Japan. Historically, it was a castle town and a center of merchant culture during the Edo period. The Matsusaka Castle ruins, merchant residences, and local museums offer insight into its legacy. In addition to culinary appeal, the city is surrounded by peaceful rural scenery and traditional charm. Matsusaka also plays a role in textile production, particularly cotton and indigo dyeing.
Suzuka is best known for the Suzuka Circuit, a world-renowned racetrack hosting Formula 1 and motorsports events. The city is also a manufacturing hub, particularly for automotive parts. It balances this modern image with rich cultural sites such as shrines, temples, and tea cultivation in its rural areas. The natural landscapes along the Suzuka Mountains and coastlines offer recreational options like hiking and beach visits. Suzuka is both fast-paced and tranquil, depending on where you explore.
Kawagoe is a coastal town in Mie Prefecture, located between Yokkaichi and Kuwana. Despite its compact size, the town offers a variety of attractions. Notably, the Chubu Electric Power Museum Tera46 provides interactive exhibits on energy and the environment. Takamatsu Coast is known for its tidal flats and birdwatching opportunities. The town also features historical sites like Zenyoji Temple and recreational areas such as Kawagoe Green Park.