Mie
Mie Prefecture, located along the Pacific coast, is known for Ise Shrine, one of Japan’s most sacred Shinto shrines, attracting pilgrims from all over the country. The prefecture also includes the scenic Ise-Shima National Park, famous for its rugged coastline and pearl cultivation. Mie is home to Matsusaka beef, one of Japan's top premium beef brands, and other local specialties include spiny lobster and akafuku mochi, a traditional Japanese sweet. Mie also hosts Suzuka Circuit, a popular venue for international motorsports events.
Mie Overview (2024)
Population
1,709,629 people
Area
5,774.48 km²
Density
296 people/km²
Temperature in Tsu (2023)
Explore Mie: 31 Popular Sightseeing Spots
1. Sarutahiko Shrine - Ise City
Sarutahiko Shrine enshrines Sarutahiko no Okami, known as the god of paths. It is said that visiting this shrine when you are confused or starting something new will guide you to success. Additionally, within the precincts, there are many attractions such as Sarume Shrine, which enshrines the god of performing arts and matchmaking, and the Ito Shouha Museum, which displays works by Ito Shouha, a painter of Ukiyo-e and portraits from the Meiji to Showa eras.
| Admission |
By Train: Approximately 10 minutes by taxi from JR 'Ise City' Station By Car: About 5 minutes from Ise Expressway 'Ise Nishi IC' |
| External Link | WebsiteGoogle Map |
2. Kashikojima Espana Cruise - Shima City
The Kashikojima Espana Cruise takes you on a scenic 50-minute tour around Ago Bay, known for its beautiful ria coastline dotted with islands, aboard the Spanish sailing ship 'Esperanza' from the Age of Discovery. Feel the pleasant sea breeze on the open deck as you enjoy the cruise. Along the way, there is a stop at a pearl model factory where you can observe the process of pearl cultivation.
| Admission | Adults 1,800 yen, Children (ages 4 to elementary school) 1,000 yen |
| Admission | By Train: 5 minutes walk from Kintetsu Kashikojima Station |
| External Link | WebsiteGoogle Map |
3. Tomoiki no Kuni Ise Ninja Kingdom - Ise City
A vast ninja-themed park covering about 10,000 square meters, featuring a recreation of the Azuchi-Momoyama era streets. Challenge yourself with a 'Real RPG' experience where you can become a resident of the castle-town that lies beneath the life-sized reproduction of Azuchi Castle! Renting a kimono or ninja costume enhances the immersion. There are also beautiful gardens inspired by the Edo period and hot springs with carbonated baths and banana leaf baths to relax and unwind. Enjoy an extraordinary time as if you have slipped back in time.
| Admission |
By Train: About a 15-minute walk from JR 'Futamiura' Station By Car: About 9 minutes from Ise Expressway 'Ise IC' |
| External Link | WebsiteGoogle Map |
4. Shima Mediterranean Village - Shima City
Shima Mediterranean Village offers a breathtaking view of Ago Bay, reminiscent of Mediterranean resort areas with its white-walled buildings and colorful decorations. The site is divided into five areas inspired by various Mediterranean regions, including Greece's Mykonos and Menorca, and Spain's Andalusia, ensuring a delightful stroll through exotic streets. There are also stylish restaurants, cafes, and shops, making it a perfect spot for a leisurely day trip, giving you the feeling of being abroad!
| Admission |
By Train: Approximately 15 minutes by taxi or free shuttle bus from Kintetsu Railway 'Ugata' Station. By Car: About 30 minutes from 'Toba Minami/Shiraki IC' on the Daini Ise Road. |
| External Link | WebsiteGoogle Map |
5. Toba Observatory - Toba City
Toba Observatory is an observation deck located at the end of the famous driving route, Pearl Road, in Ise. With a height of 165 meters, it offers stunning views along with a restaurant where you can enjoy local delicacies such as 'Toba Burger' and Ise Udon. The shop also sells luxurious soft-serve ice cream made with Ise lobster, which has an exquisite flavor blending the sweetness of vanilla and the unique taste of lobster. The local soft-serve made with 'Ouchiyama Milk' is also highly recommended.
| Opening Hours | 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM |
| Admission | By Car: Approximately 40 minutes from Ise IC on the Ise Expressway |
| External Link | WebsiteGoogle Map |
6. Maruyama Senmaida - Murogun
Maruyama Senmaida, located in the slopes of Kiwacho Maruyama, is a terraced rice field selected as one of Japan's top 100 terraced rice fields. Due to aging population and depopulation, the number of rice paddies decreased to about 530 at one point. However, local residents stood up to preserve the beautiful landscape and farming culture for future generations, and now approximately 1,340 rice paddies create a stunning scenery. Especially, the 'Mushiokuri' event in early summer is a must-see, when torches light up at dusk and the entire terraced field is enveloped in a mystical atmosphere.
| Admission |
By Train: Approximately 30 minutes by taxi from JR Kumano City Station By Car: Approximately 40 minutes from Kumano-Owase Road 'Kumano Obasami IC' |
| External Link | WebsiteGoogle Map |
7. Shinmei Shrine - Toba City
Located in the Ousatsu district, Shinmei Shrine has a secondary shrine within its grounds. The deity enshrined here is Tamayori-hime no Mikoto, a goddess who is said to grant one wish for women, according to local ama (female divers). Nowadays, many female visitors from across the country come to pray, and charms embroidered with the ama's protective symbols known as 'Se-man Dō-man' have become popular lucky items. It is a powerful spot for granting women's wishes!
| Admission |
By Train: About 40 minutes by bus from Toba Station on the JR Sangū Line, Kintetsu Toba Line, or Shima Line to 'Ousatsu' stop, then a 5-minute walk. By Car: About 35 minutes from Ise IC via Ise Futami Toba Line to Toba exit. |
| External Link | WebsiteGoogle Map |
8. Uramura Oyster Hut - Toba City
Uramura in Toba City is famous for its specialty 'Uramura Oysters'. From mid-October to early April each year, oyster huts offering all-you-can-eat oysters line the area. The main dish is grilled oysters, but there are also restaurants with additional menu items like oyster rice, oyster pickles, baked oyster gratin, and fried oysters. Some places allow you to enjoy both grilled and steamed oysters, and you can order fresh oysters separately. It's recommended to make a reservation early for your preferred restaurant. A limited winter oyster season brings together delicious all-you-can-eat oyster options!
| Admission |
By Train: Get off at Toba Station on the JR Sangū Line, Kintetsu Toba Line, or Shima Line, and take a bus to 'Hon Ura Port' or 'Mukai' stop. By Car: About 35 minutes from Ise IC on the Ise Expressway. |
| External Link | WebsiteGoogle Map |
9. Kashikojima - Shima City
Kashikojima is a populated island floating in Ago Bay. A popular attraction is the cruise around Ago Bay on the 'Esperanza', a sightseeing boat modeled after the galleons of the Spanish Age of Discovery, allowing visitors to enjoy the majestic sea and beautiful ria coastline. On the island, there is a long-established pearl shop, 'Matsui Pearl Shop', established in 1905, where visitors can purchase jewelry made from pearls and enjoy accessory-making experiences. The Ise-Shima Summit was held here in 2016.
| Admission | By Train: Approximately 2 minutes on foot from Kintetsu 'Kashikojima' Station (to Kashikojima Port)\nBy Car: Approximately 40 minutes from Ise Expressway 'Ise IC' (to Kashikojima Port) |
| External Link | WebsiteGoogle Map |
10. Dolphin Island - Tsukumi City
Dolphin Island is a leisure facility where you can see breathtaking views and interact with animals for free. You can closely observe dolphins and seals at play, try your hand at being a dolphin keeper, and learn about various marine creatures in a fun way. Additionally, there are many attractions, including a monument of the pink dolphin that brings happiness and Hinata Beach for sand-play. The panoramic views of the ocean from the observation deck are stunning. The 'Dolphin Keeper Experience', where you can feed dolphins, is very popular.
| Opening Hours | 9:15 AM to 3:45 PM |
| Admission | By Train: Approximately 9 minutes on foot from JR Toba Station (to Toba Marine Terminal)\nBy Car: Approximately 20 minutes from Ise Expressway 'Ise IC' (to Toba Marine Terminal) |
| External Link | WebsiteGoogle Map |
11. Mikimoto Pearl Island - Toba City
Mikimoto Pearl Island is where Kokichi Mikimoto, the founder of Mikimoto Pearl Company, succeeded in the world's first pearl cultivation in 1893. Spread over approximately 7,000 tsubo, the island features various facilities where visitors can learn about pearls, such as the 'Pearl Museum' and the 'Mikimoto Kokichi Memorial Hall,' which traces his life through photos and panels. There is also a shop called 'Pearl Plaza' offering pearl jewelry and souvenirs. Additionally, the 'Ama Stand,' where traditional sea diver fishing demonstrations are held, is quite popular.
| Opening Hours | 9:00 AM - 5:30 PM |
| Admission | 1,650 yen for adults, 820 yen for children (elementary and junior high school students) |
| Admission |
By Train: About a 5-minute walk from JR Toba Station By Car: About 5 minutes from Ise Expressway 'Ise IC' |
| External Link | WebsiteGoogle Map |
12. Mitsui Outlet Park Jazz Dream Nagashima - Kuwana City
An outlet park located in Nagashima Resort. The two-story mall is themed after the streets of New Orleans, featuring luxury brands, popular domestic and international select shops, sports and outdoor goods, kids' fashion, and men's and women's fashion accessories. There are also restaurants where you can savor Nagoya specialties like misokatsu and hitsumabushi!
| Opening Hours | 10:00 - 20:00 |
| Admission | By Train: A short walk from the 'Kuwana' Station on the JR Kansai Main Line and Kintetsu Nagoya Line, alighting at the 'Nagashima Onsen' bus stop on the Meitetsu Bus. By Car: Just off the 'Wangan Nagashima' interchange on the Ise Bay Highway. |
| External Link | WebsiteGoogle Map |
13. Iga no Sato Mokumoku Handmade Farm - Iga City
Iga no Sato Mokumoku Handmade Farm is a recommended spot where you can interact with agriculture and nature through various experience programs. One of the most popular activities is the handmade sausage experience, featuring the spiral-shaped large 'Guruguru Smoke Sausage' as one of the specialties. You can also enjoy a variety of handmade gourmet experiences, such as the hearty frankfurters that are thicker than the sausages, and bread-making classes using seasonal ingredients.
| Opening Hours |
9:30 AM - 7:00 PM (hours may vary by facility) Closed: Second Wednesday from April to December |
| Admission | By Train: Approximately 15 minutes by taxi from Tsuge Station on the JR Kansai Main Line and Kusatsu Line |
| External Link | WebsiteGoogle Map |
14. Futami Okitama Jinja - Ise
Futami Okitama Shrine enshrines Sarutahiko no Okami as its deity and is known for its blessings for matchmaking, marital harmony, and traffic safety. Within the shrine grounds, there are two rocks bound by a ritual rope, known as the 'Wedded Rocks.' About 700 meters offshore rests the 'Okitama God Stone,' which serves as a torii gate to worship the sun rising between the rocks. Throughout the grounds, you'll find frog figurines symbolizing safe return, and it is recommended to search for them while visiting.
| Admission |
By Train: Approximately 15 minutes on foot from JR 'Futamiura' Station By Car: Approximately 10 minutes from Ise Expressway 'Ise IC' |
| External Link | WebsiteGoogle Map |
15. Ise Sea Paradise - Ise City
With the concept of a 'zero-distance aquarium', the charm lies in being able to closely observe and feel the warmth of animals such as sea lions, walruses, and seals. Offering unique interaction experiences that can't be found in other aquariums, such as shaking hands with a clawless otter and having a seahorse wrap around your finger.
| Opening Hours | 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM |
| Admission | Admission Fee: Adults 2,100 yen, Children (elementary and junior high school) 1,000 yen, Toddlers (4 years and older) 500 yen, Seniors (65 years and older) 2,000 yen |
| Admission |
By Train: Approximately 20 minutes on foot from JR Sangū Line 'Futaminoura' Station By Car: About 5 minutes from Ise Expressway 'Ise' IC via Ise Futami Toba Line 'Futami JCT' |
| External Link | WebsiteGoogle Map |
16. Oyatsu Town - Tsu City
A theme park where you can experience playing, learning, creating, and eating, all themed around Baby Star Ramen. It features a giant jungle gym with a height of about 9 meters, an area to play actively, and a unique experience to make your own original Baby Star Ramen at 'My Special Baby Star'. There are plenty of facilities that both children and adults can enjoy! Don't miss the restaurant that has unique menus made with Baby Star Ramen and Butamen, where you can find characters from snacks you might have eaten during childhood!
| Opening Hours | 10:00 - 17:00 |
| Admission | Regular admission: Adults 2,200 yen, Children (ages 3-12) 2,000 yen, Free for children under 2 years |
| Admission | By Train: Take the Mie Kotsu bus from Kintetsu 'Hisai' Station and get off at 'Oyatsu Town Mae', about a 5-minute walk. By Car: About 5 minutes from Ise Expressway 'Hisai IC'. |
| External Link | WebsiteGoogle Map |
17. Inabe Agricultural Park - Ogaki City
A vast agricultural park consisting of the Ume Plum Grove Area and the Eco Welfare Square Area. The Ume Plum Grove, covering approximately 38 hectares, is home to around 100 varieties and 4,500 plum trees, with white, deep pink, and light pink flowers adding vibrant colors to the park. The Eco Welfare Square Area features peonies, and during their peak seasons, the 'Ume Festival' and 'Peony Festival' attract many tourists, with around 35 varieties and 5,000 peonies in bloom.
| Opening Hours |
Ume Plum Grove 9:00 AM - 4:00 PM Eco Welfare Square 8:30 AM - 5:00 PM |
| Admission |
By Train: Approximately 20 minutes by taxi from Sangitetsudo Hokusei Line 'Agaki' Station By Car: Approximately 50 minutes from Tomeihan Expressway 'Kuwana IC' or 40 minutes from Meishin Expressway 'Sekigahara IC' |
| External Link | WebsiteGoogle Map |
18. Yokoyama Observatory - Shima City
Five observation decks offering a panoramic view of Ago Bay. The breathtaking scenery created by around 60 islands and Japan's renowned ria coastline is truly unique. Well-maintained walking paths make it easy to enjoy hiking and trekking while admiring the beautiful nature. The observatory rest area, adjacent to the 'Sky Café Terrace' at an elevation of about 140 meters, offers meals made with abundant local ingredients. Indulge in our proud menu while enjoying the spectacular views below. The scenery from the 'Sky Café Terrace' is also extraordinary!
| Opening Hours | Sky Café Terrace Rest Area 9:00 AM - 4:30 PM |
| Admission |
By Train: About 5 minutes by taxi from Kintetsu 'Ugata' Station By Car: About 25 minutes from Ise Expressway 'Shiraki IC' |
| External Link | WebsiteGoogle Map |
19. Yokkaichi Port Building - Yokkaichi
Built in the 1950s, it was the first petrochemical complex in Japan. Once shunned for causing air and water pollution, it has now regained a good environment and is gaining attention as a spot for viewing factory nightscapes. The highlight is the observation room 'Umiterasu 14' in the Yokkaichi Port Building, which offers a view of the plant clusters on weekends. Night cruises from the sea are also popular, as the factory night views that were once avoided are now attracting significant interest.
| Opening Hours |
Umiterasu 14: 10:00 AM - 5:00 PM, Weekends and Holidays until 9:00 PM Closed: Wednesdays |
| Admission |
Yokkaichi Port Building 'Umiterasu 14': General (High school students and above) 310 yen Night cruise (60 minutes): Adults (13 years and older) 5,000 yen, Children (6 years and older) 4,500 yen |
| Admission |
By Train: About a 15-minute walk from JR Kansai Main Line 'Tomidahama' Station By Car: About a 15-minute drive from 'Yokkaichi Higashi' IC on the Tomeihanshin Expressway |
| External Link | WebsiteGoogle Map |
20. Toba Aquarium - Toba City
The aquarium boasts the highest number of species in Japan, showcasing approximately 1,200 types of marine life, including the Dugong and the Palauan Nautilus, which can only be seen in Japan. The facility, divided into 12 zones, hosts daily shows featuring sea lions and walruses. Highlights include the 'Strange Creatures Research Institute' and various exhibits featuring Capybaras and Fishing Cats that inhabit wetlands. It is one of the largest indoor aquariums in the country.
| Opening Hours | 9:30 AM - 5:00 PM |
| Admission | Admission: Adults 2,800 yen, Children (Elementary and Junior High School) 1,600 yen, Toddlers (3 years and older) 800 yen |
| Admission | By Train: About a 10-minute walk from Toba Station on the JR Sangu Line, Kintetsu Toba Line, and Shima Line. By Car: Approximately 15 minutes from Ise IC on the Ise Expressway via the Ise Futami Toba Line. |
| External Link | WebsiteGoogle Map |
21. Iga-ryu Ninja Museum - Iga City
The Iga-ryu Ninja Museum boasts the world's finest collection of ninja artifacts, housed in a relocated feudal lord's residence from Iga. Visitors can enjoy live demonstrations of various ninja traps, such as secret doors and hidden compartments, guided by real ninjas and kunoichi (female ninjas). Popular attractions include ninja experience activities like shuriken throwing and thrilling ninja shows performed by the 'Ashura' ninja group. An original ninja goods shop is also available, offering authentic materials and hands-on ninja experiences.
| Opening Hours | Weekdays 10:00 AM - 4:00 PM, Saturday, Sunday, and holidays 10:00 AM - 4:30 PM (Admission closes 30 minutes before closing) |
| Admission | Admission Fee: Adults (High school students and above) 800 yen, Children (Ages 4 to middle school) 500 yen |
| Admission | By Train: About 10 minutes walk from Iga Railway 'Uenoshi' Station\nBy Car: About 5 minutes from Meihan Expressway 'Ueno-Higashi' IC |
| External Link | WebsiteGoogle Map |
22. Okage Yokocho - Ise City
Okage Yokocho is a town located in the middle of the approach to Ise Jingu Naiku, where representative buildings from the Edo to Meiji periods have been relocated and recreated. Spanning approximately 4,000 tsubo, the area is lined with long-established gourmet shops and souvenir stores that encapsulate the charm of Ise and Shima. At the 'Okageza Mythology Museum,' themed around Japanese mythology, visitors can experience the world of myths through videos and washi puppets. (As of August 2024, Okageza is temporarily closed for building renovations.)
| Opening Hours | 9:30 AM - 5:30 PM (Until 6:00 PM in August and September, and until 5:00 PM from November to February) |
| Admission | Free admission |
| Admission | By Train: Take a bus from 'Ise City' station on the Kintetsu Yamada Line or JR Sangū Line, or from 'Uji Yamada' station on the Kintetsu Yamada Line or Toba Line, to 'Jingu Kaikan Mae' stop and walk a short distance. By Car: About 5 minutes from 'Ise' IC on the Ise Expressway. |
| External Link | WebsiteGoogle Map |
23. Suzuka Circuit - Suzuka City
A major mobility theme park spreading across hilly terrain. It features an international racing course where big races such as the Suzuka 8 Hours endurance race and Formula Nippon are held. On days without races, visitors can enjoy go-karting on the 2.3-kilometer East Course. It also includes the 'Suzuka Circuit Park' with 30 types of attractions, hotels, and day-use hot spring facilities.
| Opening Hours | Park Hours: 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM (subject to change based on season and race events), closed twice a year |
| Admission | 1-Day Passport (entrance + unlimited rides on attractions): Adults (high school students and above) 4,800 yen, Elementary and junior high school students 3,400 yen, Preschoolers (3 years and older) 2,200 yen. *Prices may vary by day. |
| Admission |
By Train: About 20 minutes by bus from Kintetsu Nagoya Line 'Shirako' Station By Car: About 20 minutes from Suzuka IC on the Tomeihan Expressway |
| External Link | WebsiteGoogle Map |
24. Shima Spain Village - Shima City
A complex resort themed on the passionate country of Spain. In the exotic atmosphere of the park, a variety of attractions ranging from thrill rides to relaxing experiences can be found, centered around the 'Parque Espana'. It also features the Shima Spain Village Hotel and the Ise-Shima Onsen 'Himawari-no-Yu'. Don't miss the musical shows featuring characters like Dalu and Choccy, as well as exotic flamenco performances.
| Opening Hours | 9:30 AM to 5:00 PM (Hours may vary depending on season and day) Closed in winter. |
| Admission | Entrance fee (All-day passport): Adults 5,700 yen, Youth (12-17 years) 4,600 yen, Children (3-11 years) and Seniors (60 years and above) 3,800 yen. |
| Admission | By Train: Approximately 13 minutes by direct bus from Kintetsu Shima Line 'Ugata' Station. By Car: From Ise Expressway 'Ise' IC to Ise Futami Toba Line 'Matsushita' JCT and secondly Ise Road 'Toba Minami/Shiraki' IC. Approximately 20 minutes via R167 from Toba Minami/Shiraki IC. |
| External Link | WebsiteGoogle Map |
25. Nagashima Spa Land - Kuwana
One of Japan's leading amusement parks featuring over 50 attractions. It boasts the world's longest roller coaster, the Guinness-certified 'Steel Dragon 2000' at 2,479 meters, as well as Japan's first flying coaster 'Acrobat' and the thrilling 'Hybrid Coaster White Whale' that runs through a rough wooden structure while tilting almost horizontally. The jumbo seawater pool in summer and fireworks festivals are also popular. An outlet mall and one of Japan's largest day-use hot spring facilities are adjacent!
| Opening Hours | 9:30 AM to 5:30 PM (varies by season and day) |
| Admission | Entrance only: Adults 1,600 yen, Elementary school students 1,000 yen, Toddlers (2 years and older) 500 yen. Entrance + unlimited rides: Adults 5,800 yen, Elementary school students 4,400 yen, Toddlers (2 years and older) 2,700 yen. |
| Admission | By Train: About 20 minutes by bus from JR Kansai Line / Kintetsu Nagoya Line 'Kuwana' Station. By Car: Right near 'Wangan Nagashima' IC on the Ise Bay Expressway. |
| External Link | WebsiteGoogle Map |
26. Akame Shijuhachi Falls - Nabari
Located in the center of Muro-Akame-Aoyama Quasi-National Park, the 'Akame Shijuhachi Falls' is a stunning collection of various waterfalls stretching over 4 kilometers. Particularly famous are the 'Akame Five Falls': Fudo Falls, Senju Falls, Nubiki Falls, Nitan Falls, and Biwa Falls, which all have an overwhelming presence. The connecting walking paths are also popular for leisurely strolls, allowing visitors to experience nature's art amid vibrant seasonal landscapes, including cherry blossoms, fresh greenery, and autumn leaves. It has been selected as one of Japan's top 100 waterfalls and one of the top 100 forests for forest bathing.
| Opening Hours | 9:00 AM - 4:30 PM (March 2nd Friday - November: 8:30 AM - 5:00 PM) |
| Admission | Admission: Adults 1,000 yen, Children (Elementary and Junior High) 500 yen |
| Admission | By Train: Take the Kintetsu Osaka Line to 'Akameguchi' station and transfer to bus to 'Akame Falls' stop. By Car: Approximately 40 minutes from Meihan Expressway 'Ueno' IC. |
| External Link | WebsiteGoogle Map |
27. Ise Jingu - Ise City
Ise Jingu, affectionately known as 'O-Ise-san' or 'Daijingu-san', is a collective name for 125 shrines located in and around Ise City. The core of Ise Jingu consists of two main shrines: Naiku (Kotaijingu) and Geku (Toyoke Daijingu). Naiku enshrines Amaterasu Omikami, the deity of the Japanese imperial family, and boasts a history of approximately 2000 years. It features the unique Shinmei-zukuri architecture of the main shrine, along with numerous other distinguished shrines.
| Opening Hours | 5:00 AM - 6:00 PM (varies by season) |
| Admission | Free admission for worship |
| Admission | By Train: Geku: About a 5-minute walk from Ise-shi Station on the Kintetsu Yamada Line / JR Sangu Line. Naiku: From Ise-shi Station or Uji-Yamada Station on the Kintetsu Yamada Line/Toba Line, take a city bus to 'Naiku-mae' stop and walk a short distance. By Car: About 5-10 minutes from Ise IC on the Ise Expressway (about 10 minutes from Geku to Naiku). |
| External Link | WebsiteGoogle Map |
28. Gozaisho Ropeway - Komono Town
The Gozaisho Ropeway connects the Yuni-yama Onsen at an elevation of about 400 meters to the summit of Gozaisho Mountain at 1,212 meters, covering a distance of 2,161 meters in approximately 12 minutes. From the gondola windows, visitors can enjoy stunning views of seasonal landscapes such as azaleas in spring, lush greenery in summer, vibrant autumn leaves, and frost-covered trees in winter. If you're lucky, you might even spot a Japanese serow hopping on the rocks. At the summit, there is also the only ski resort in the prefecture. Don't miss the local specialty 'Gozaisho Curry Udon' at the mountaintop park restaurant!
| Opening Hours | April to November 9:00 am - 5:00 pm, December to March 9:00 am - 4:00 pm |
| Admission | Round trip for the ropeway: Adults (Junior high school students and above) 2,600 yen, Children (4 years to elementary school) 1,300 yen, Free for 3 years and under |
| Admission | By Train: About 10 minutes on foot from the bus stop 'Mikado Yuni-yama Onsen' after taking a bus from Kintetsu 'Yuni-yama Onsen' Station. By Car: Approximately 30 minutes from Yokkaichi IC on the Tomei Expressway. |
| External Link | WebsiteGoogle Map |
29. Oni-gajo - Kumano City
A large cliff made of tuff located along the Kumano Kodo pilgrimage route. Approximately 1.2 kilometers of coastal erosion caves have been formed by the rough waves of Kumano-nada and weathering, designated as a national scenic spot and natural monument. There is a walking path along the coastline, and the impressive views from the two large caves known as 'Senjo-jiki' and the observatory called 'Oni-no-Miharai-dai' are must-sees. The adjacent 'Oni-gajo Center' features a cafe with a view of Kumano-nada. It is also registered as part of the UNESCO World Heritage Site 'Sacred Sites and Pilgrimage Routes in the Kii Mountain Range'.
| Opening Hours | Oni-gajo Center: 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM |
| Admission | By Train: Take the JR Kisei Line to 'Kumano City' Station, then transfer to the bus 'Oni-gajo Higashiguchi' stop, a short walk away. By Car: Just off the Kumano-Owase Road at 'Kumano Ohara' IC. |
| External Link | WebsiteGoogle Map |
30. Nabana no Sato - Kuwana City
A leading flower and greenery theme park in the Tokai region. It features one of Japan's largest flower fields, where you can enjoy beautiful flowers throughout the seasons, as well as the Begonia Garden with hundreds of species and about 12,000 plants collected from around the world. The park also includes a day-use hot spring, a craft beer garden, and restaurants. The annual illumination event is widely known across the country, showcasing a magnificent world of light with overwhelming quality and scale. The theme of the illumination changes every year and usually runs from October to May. Visitors can enjoy the spring blooms of tulips and the blue carpet of nemophila, creating a stunning display of flowers both day and night!
| Opening Hours |
10:00 AM - 10:00 PM *Hours vary by season *Illumination event usually held from October to May |
| Admission |
Entrance fee: 1,700 yen during regular periods, 2,500 yen during illumination events *Includes 1,000 yen worth of vouchers usable within the park |
| Admission |
By Train: About 10 minutes by bus from JR Kansai Main Line and Kintetsu Nagoya Line 'Kuwana' Station *Direct buses available from 'Kintetsu Nagashima' Station during illumination events By Car: About 15 minutes from 'Wangan Nagashima' IC on the Ise Bay Coastal Expressway |
| External Link | WebsiteGoogle Map |
31. Kumano Hongu Taisha - Tanabe
The Kumano Kodo in Mie Prefecture, known as the Ise Route, is a pilgrimage path to visit the Kumano Sanzan (Kumano Hongu Taisha, Kumano Hayatama Taisha, and Kumano Nachi Taisha) from Ise Jingu. It has been registered as a UNESCO World Heritage Site as the 'Sacred Sites and Pilgrimage Routes in the Kii Mountain Range.' The Magose Pass course, starting from 'Michi-no-Eki Umikawa,' features a stone-paved path through a forest of Owase cypress, making it a delightful ancient trail for walking. Among the Kumano Sanzan, Kumano Hongu Taisha exudes a particularly traditional atmosphere.
| Opening Hours | 8:00-17:00 |
| Admission | By Train: About 60 minutes by bus from JR Kinki Line 'Shingu Station', then about 6 minutes on foot from 'Hongu Taisha Mae' bus stop. |
| External Link | WebsiteGoogle Map |