This rural town cycling tour is an ideal getaway from the bustling shopping streets near Ise Jingu. Just a couple of stations away you can pedal your way through ancient historical sites, scenic beaches and traditional sake breweries.
Local people from the small town Meiwa call leisure cycling "Saikuling", a pun based on the remains of the historical Saiku palace where Ise Jingu's Saio princess used to reside during the Heian period (794-1185). Many of the spots you will see on this tour are designated national historic site and Japan Heritage. However, even if you are not into archaeological sites and ancient legends, this cycling tour will reveal a charming countryside town with its scenic landscape and warm-hearted people. Just a 15-minute train ride away from Ise Jingu in Mie, there is a whole hidden world to explore. Along the way your guide will tell you interesting stories about the daily life of local people and will introduce locally grown farm products.
See the partial reconstruction of the ancient Saiku palace. While the grandiose Saiku palace no longer exists, several of its many buildings have been reconstructed and open to the public.
Pass through the sacred Take Shrine believed to be the place where Saio's residence was.
Cycle for about 30 minutes until Oyodo Coast, a scenic coastline popular for holiday camping, and stop by Asahi Shuzo Brewery, a traditional sake brewery founded in 1875 where you can try their unique sake-flavored cake and ice-cream.
Arrive at Torimisoya, have Chicken grilled in miso and sake rice lunch.
And enjoy shopping afterwards.
Cycle through the picturesque streets and local farms of Meiwa town back to Saiku Station. Along the way your guide will show you various points of interests and provide useful information for the local lifestyle.
South exit of Saiku Station
Mie Prefecture, located in the Chūbu region of Japan, is renowned for its natural beauty, rich history, and cultural heritage. From the sacred Ise Jingu shrines to the picturesque Ise-Shima National Park, Mie offers a blend of spiritual sites, scenic landscapes, and unique local traditions.
Ise Jingu is Japan's most sacred Shinto shrine, dedicated to the sun goddess Amaterasu. The shrine complex consists of over 100 shrines, with the main Naikū and Gekū shrines being the most significant.
This national park offers stunning coastal landscapes, lush forests, and scenic hiking trails. It is a paradise for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts.
Nabana no Sato is a stunning seasonal flower park located on the shores of Ise Bay. It is famous for its illuminated night displays and vast fields of tulips, kochia, and other flowers.
Matsusaka Castle is a reconstructed castle that offers a glimpse into Japan's feudal past. The castle grounds are surrounded by a moat and feature a museum and gardens.
Suigetsu no Ie is a traditional thatched-roof house that offers a glimpse into the lives of rural farmers in the Edo period. The house is surrounded by a beautiful garden and a pond.
Matsusaka beef is a premium type of Wagyu beef known for its tenderness, marbling, and rich flavor. It is often served as sashimi, grilled, or in hot pot dishes.
Ise udon is a type of thick, chewy udon noodle that is often served in a hot broth or as a cold noodle dish. It is a local specialty of the Ise region.
Akame Shio Ramen is a salt-based ramen dish that originated in the Akame region of Mie. It is known for its rich, savory broth and chewy noodles.
Hitaki Ika is a grilled squid dish that is a local specialty of the Toba region. The squid is grilled over charcoal and served with a tangy dipping sauce.
Spring brings cherry blossoms and pleasant weather, while autumn offers vibrant fall foliage and comfortable temperatures. These are the best times to visit for outdoor activities and sightseeing.
Japanese Yen (JPY)
GMT+9
100VV, 50/60HzHz
Mie Prefecture is generally very safe, with low crime rates and a welcoming atmosphere for visitors. However, as with any destination, it is important to take basic precautions to ensure a safe and enjoyable trip.
Kintetsu-Nagoya Station, Matsusaka Station
Nagoya Station, Osaka Station, Kyoto Station
Trains are the most convenient way to get around Mie, connecting major cities and attractions.
Available • Apps: JapanTaxi, DiDi
Car, Bike, Scooter
Nabana no Sato is a stunning seasonal flower park located on the shores of Ise Bay. It is famous for its illuminated night displays and vast fields of tulips, kochia, and other flowers.
Ise Jingu is Japan's most sacred Shinto shrine, dedicated to the sun goddess Amaterasu. The shrine complex consists of over 100 shrines, with the main Naikū and Gekū shrines being the most significant.
This national park offers stunning coastal landscapes, lush forests, and scenic hiking trails. It is a paradise for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts.
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