Top 5 Must-Visit Summer Spots in Mie
Want to make the most of Japan's summer heat in a refreshing way? Mie Prefecture boasts numerous must-visit tourist spots perfect for such an adventure. Let's dive into our top five recommendations.
Written By Jason Daniels
Table of Contents
・Akame 48 Waterfalls
・Shichiri-Mihama Coast
・Yokoyama Tenboudai (Lookout Point)
・Blue Grotto of Kumano
・Maruyama Senmaida – Mushi Okuri
・Wrap-up
Akame 48 Waterfalls
The hidden natural gem of Nabari City, the Akame 48 Waterfalls, is great for escaping the summer heat, and for outdoor activities like hiking and forest bathing. There are waterfalls of various sizes for you to enjoy while walking along an approximately 4-kilometer hiking trail. Opting for the shortest 30-minute route allows you to witness the breathtaking views of the famous Fudo and Senju Falls. Take a moment to rejuvenate yourself amidst the negative ions at benches and pavilions strategically placed along the trail. Don't forget to wear comfortable shoes and bring insect repellent. Additionally, near the valley entrance, there's a hot spring inn called Taisenkaku, offering day-use access to open-air baths for a refreshing experience.
Shichiri-Mihama Coast
Summer calls for the sea. Stretching from Kumano City to Kiho Town, the Shichiri-Mihama coast boasts Japan's longest gravel beach, approximately 22 kilometers. Its beauty has earned it titles like World Heritage (Kumano Kodo) and Japan's Top 100 Beaches. While swimming is prohibited due to rough waves and sudden depth, the coast, adorned with colorful pebbles polished by the turbulent waves, is truly worth a visit. You might even catch a glimpse of loggerhead turtles coming ashore for nesting. Only a 10-minute walk from Kumano City Station, it's easily accessible. In August, don't miss the grand Kumano Grand Fireworks Festival.
Yokoyama Tenboudai (Lookout Point)
Yokoyama Tenboudai (Lookout Point) is a mesmerizing spot in Ise-Shima. Positioned at the end of a walking trail through the forest of Ise-Shima National Park, this lookout point offers panoramic views of Ago Bay, renowned for pearl cultivation, along one of Japan's top ria coasts. This area is best during the sunset to witness the grand panorama of nature before your eyes. Seating on the cafe terrace's wood deck will leave you feeling as if you are floating in the sky. The lookout point is in Yokoyama Park, which features several hiking trails. So, if you're into hiking, come prepared with comfortable attire and walking shoes.
Blue Grotto of Kumano
On the Kumano coastline is a cave known as the Blue Grotto of Kumano. Upon entering the grotto, you'll encounter a stunning, crystal-clear emerald-green water surface, transporting you away from the summer heat. In this area, contrasting with the gentle and straight Shichiri Mihama Coast to the south of Kumano, you'll find the famous Onigajo, selected as one of Japan's top 100 scenic spots, and the designated natural monument, Tategasaki, featuring large rock formations typical of the rugged Ria coast. Enjoy recommended boat cruises or sea kayak tours to explore these attractions.
Maruyama Senmaida – Mushi Okuri
On the slopes of Maruyama in the town of Kiwa, in the southern part of Mie Prefecture, lies a series of terraced rice paddies overlapping like waves. The spectacular Maruyama Senmaida, selected as one of Japan's Top 100 Terraced Rice Fields, has been nurtured through the diligent conservation efforts of the local community. These efforts include various events held throughout the year. One such event is "Mushi Okuri," held in June with the purpose of pest control and praying for a bountiful harvest. As dusk falls, 1340 candles, equal to the number of rice paddies, illuminate the terraced fields as local children parade through the area, creating a magical scene.