1-Day Itinerary: Experience Japanese Culture and History in the Ise-Shima Area of Mie Prefecture
The Ise-Shima area of Mie Prefecture is known for its rich cultural and historical significance, as well as its natural beauty. You may have heard about it before from the G7 Ise-Shima Summit in 2016. This area has become a popular locale to visit for people from Nagoya and Osaka with numerous photogenic spots to enjoy. If you are a Japanese history and culture lover like me, this is a must-see destination for you.
Gyudon beef bowl set at Itsuki Chaya
1/10 full model of the entire historic site
Saiku Heian Era Park
The last stop of our trip is visiting the reconstructed buildings at the Saiku Heian Era Park. Three full-scale buildings have been built here on the former site, which is where important ceremonies were performed at the government offices for Saiku. The structures have been authentically reconstructed using traditional building techniques, so I felt that I had actually stepped back in time to the real Saiku.
Walking through a cosmos flower field to the Saiku Heian Era Park
Restored buildings in the Saiku Heian Era Park
Using VR to learn about the Saiku buildings
How to Get There
From Nagoya, visitors can reach Ise either via a direct Kintetsu limited express train or JR rapid train from Nagoya Station to Ise-shi Station. From Osaka, take the Kintetsu limited express directly from Namba Station to Ise-shi Station. Geku is conveniently located about 5 minutes’ walk from Ise-shi Station.
Wrap Up
The Ise-Shima area offers a perfect mix of cultural, historical, and natural attractions, allowing visitors to immerse themselves in traditional Japanese culture while enjoying the scenic beauty of the region.