Ise Jingu(Ise Grand Shrine) Half-Day Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
Active
4h
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Instant confirmation
Mobile or paper ticket accepted
About this experience
This value-packed trip with a government-licensed and experienced English-speaking tour guide is a fantastic and efficient way to explore Ise area!
The city houses the Japan’s most sacred Shinto shrine that is about 2000 years old. The shrine is the center of major religious and spiritual activities. The Ise trip is incomplete without paying respect to the supreme deity Amaterasu Omikami (the sun goddess) . You will also come across the traditional Japanese foods and history while visiting Okage Yokocho street.
Let us know what special requests you have for the day and we will customize your itinerary in advance!
Please be aware the this tour is on foot/with public transport. Ise Jingu Shrine also requires walking long distances in the shrine.
Available options
Ise Jingu(Ise Grand Shrine) Half-Day Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
Pickup included
What's included
Meet up with guide on foot within designated area of Ise
Licensed Local English Speaking Guide
Customizable Tour of your choice of 2-3 sites from 'What to expect' list
Detailed itinerary
1
The Ise trip is incomplete without paying respect to the supreme deity Amaterasu Omikami (the sun goddess) enshrined at Naiku. Naiku is one of the two major shrines of Ise Shrines and is officially known as Kotai Jingu. This is considered as the most sacred shrine in Japan where millions of visitors arrive every month to worship for prosperity, peace and spirituality.
2
The Ise trip is incomplete without paying respect to the supreme deity Amaterasu Omikami (the sun goddess) enshrined at Naiku. Naiku is one of the two major shrines of Ise Shrines and is officially known as Kotai Jingu. This is considered as the most sacred shrine in Japan where millions of visitors arrive every month to worship for prosperity, peace and spirituality.
3
Naiku shrine is not only the shrine, in fact it has much more in terms of purification and nature. The Isuzugawa River runs along the grounds of Naiku shrine and is widely visited by the pilgrims or tourists in order to have a purified cleaning.Walking alongside this river will give you a scenic view of the natural beauty and you will definitely be enthralled. This view is enhanced during the season of Cherry blossoms.
4
Okage Yokocho is an alleyway or street built in 1993 in front of Naiku gate of Ise grand shrine. The street has relocated the townscape of Ise in the Edo to Meiji periods. There are different shops including restaurants, shops selling candles, handicrafts, souvenirs and a museum as well. You will come across the traditional Japanese foods and history while visiting this street. Here at the center of the district, a live performance of Taiko drums is held on weekends and national holidays.
5
When you are near Futami (a small town in Ise city, you must not miss out the opportunity to view the scenic beauty of Meoto Iwa (wedded rocks) in the ocean. These are two sacred rocks, the larger one is considered the husband while the smaller one is wife. They both are connected with a Shimenawa rope. This rope is replaced three times a year in a ceremony held for this spiritual purpose. Moreover, the splendid view of the sun rising between the two rocks sounds truly amazing. If you find this chance, you must experience this beauty.
What's not included
Transportation fees, Entrance fees, Lunch, and Other personal expenses
Private transportation
You cannot combine multiple tour groups.
Guide Entry fees are only covered for sights listed under What to Expect.
Available languages
Guide guide
JA
EN
Reviews breakdown
Viator
5.0
4 reviews
5★
4
4★
0
3★
0
2★
0
1★
0
Tripadvisor
5.0
13 reviews
5★
13
4★
0
3★
0
2★
0
1★
0
Important information
Service animals allowed
Public transportation options are available nearby
Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
All areas and surfaces are wheelchair accessible
Transportation options are wheelchair accessible
Wheelchair accessible
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
The pick-up/meetup for this tour is on foot/public transport.
About Mie Prefecture
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.
Top Attractions
Ise Jingu
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.
Religious
2-3 hours
Free (donations welcome)
Ise-Shima National Park
This national park offers stunning coastal landscapes, lush forests, and scenic hiking trails. It is a paradise for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts.
Nature
Half to full day
Free (some attractions may have fees)
Nabana no Sato
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.
Nature
2-3 hours
¥1,500 to ¥2,000
Matsusaka Castle
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.
Historical
1-2 hours
¥300 to ¥500
Suigetsu no Ie
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.
Cultural
1-2 hours
¥500 to ¥1,000
Must-Try Local Dishes
Matsusaka Beef
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.
Dinner
Contains beef
Ise Udon
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.
Lunch/Dinner
Vegetarian-friendly (check for dashi broth)
Akame Shio Ramen
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.
Lunch/Dinner
Contains pork and seafood
Hitaki Ika
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.
Snack/Dinner
Contains squid
Popular Activities
Hiking in Ise-Shima National Park
Scuba diving in Ago Bay
Visiting Ise Jingu for a spiritual experience
Enjoying a traditional onsen (hot spring)
Exploring Okage Yokocho in Ise
Learning about pearl farming in Toba
Boat tours in Ago Bay
Swimming and water sports in Ise Bay
Best Time to Visit
Spring (March to May) and Autumn (September to November)
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.
15°C to 25°C
59°F to 77°F
Practical Information
Language
- Official: Japanese
- Widely spoken: English (limited)
- English: Limited
Currency
Japanese Yen (JPY)
Time Zone
GMT+9
Electricity
100VV, 50/60HzHz
Safety Information
Overall Safety Rating: Very safe
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.
Important Precautions:
- • Keep valuables secure and out of sight
- • Be cautious when using ATMs, especially at night
- • Avoid unlicensed taxis and tour guides
Getting there
By air
- Chūbu Centrair International Airport • 50 km from Nagoya, 100 km from Mie
- Matsusaka Airport • 10 km from Matsusaka
By train
Kintetsu-Nagoya Station, Matsusaka Station
By bus
Nagoya Station, Osaka Station, Kyoto Station
Getting around
Public transport
Trains are the most convenient way to get around Mie, connecting major cities and attractions.
Taxis
Available • Apps: JapanTaxi, DiDi
Rentals
Car, Bike, Scooter
Neighborhoods
Ise
Toba
Matsusaka
Kuwana
Day trips
Nabana no Sato
30 km from Nagoya • Half to full day
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
100 km from Nagoya • Full day
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.
Ise-Shima National Park
120 km from Nagoya • Full day
This national park offers stunning coastal landscapes, lush forests, and scenic hiking trails. It is a paradise for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts.
Festivals
Ise Grand Shrine Shikinen Sengu • Every 20 years (next in 2033)
Toba Fireworks Festival • Early August
Matsusaka Tanabata Festival • Early July
Pro tips
- Visit Ise Jingu during the Shikinen Sengu ceremony, which occurs every 20 years, for a unique and memorable experience.
- Try Matsusaka beef, a local specialty, at a traditional restaurant or izakaya (pub).
- Explore the scenic beauty of Ise-Shima National Park by hiking, cycling, or taking a scenic boat tour.
- Experience the illuminated night displays at Nabana no Sato flower park during the winter season.
- Learn about the history and production of pearls at the Toba Pearl Museum, and create your own pearl jewelry.
From $25
per person
Price varies by option
Secure booking
Free cancellation available
Instant confirmation
