Exploring the Cultural Riches of Ise Shima with Aisha

Farewell to Ise Shima: A Day of Reflection and Gratitude

As our journey through the heart of Japan's spiritual home draws to a close, I find myself filled with a sense of peace and gratitude. Today, Aisha and I embarked on a final exploration of Ise Shima, soaking in the last moments of its serene beauty and rich cultural tapestry. It's hard to believe our nine days here are already coming to an end; it feels like just yesterday we were marveling at the shores of Ise Bay.

Our day began with a hearty breakfast at Yashiro. The Japanese meal was a luxurious spread featuring dashi-wrapped eggs with seaweed and miso soup. It was the perfect way to fuel up for a day of exploration and reflection.


Discover Yashiro: A premier seafood restaurant in Shima offering fresh local delicacies and authentic Japanese dining experiences.

Visiting Kodenchi (Site of Previous Sanctuary)

After breakfast, we set out to visit Kodenchi, the Site of the Previous Sanctuary at the Geku Outer Shrine. This serene location holds a special significance, as it marks the spot where the previous divine palace stood. It's a place of quiet contemplation, where one can reflect on the cyclical nature of renewal and tradition in Japanese culture. Knowing that a new divine palace will eventually be constructed here during the next Shikinen Sengu made the visit even more profound.


Discover the serene beauty of Kodenchi, a historical Shinto shrine in Ise, where tradition meets tranquility amidst nature's embrace.

The Outer Shrine, formally known as Toyouke Daijingu, is dedicated to Toyouke Omikami, the deity of food, housing, and clothing. This kami provides sustenance for Amaterasu Omikami, the Sun Goddess enshrined at the Inner Shrine. Visiting Kodenchi offered a unique perspective on the shrine's history and the enduring traditions that have been upheld for centuries.

Crossing the Ujibashi Bridge

Next, we made our way to the iconic Ujibashi Bridge. Spanning the Isuzu River, this bridge is more than just a crossing; it's a symbolic passage from the mundane to the sacred. As I stepped onto the bridge, I couldn't help but feel a sense of reverence, knowing that countless pilgrims have walked this path before me.


Experience the tranquility and cultural significance of Ujibashi Bridge in Ise, a vital connection to Japan's revered Ise Jingu Shrine.

The journey of a lifetime is not about the destination, but the transformations you undergo along the way.

The Ujibashi Bridge is rebuilt every twenty years as part of the Shikinen Sengu, a ritual that ensures the traditions are passed down through generations. The current structure, rebuilt in 1996, reflects the traditional design, incorporating Japanese cypress and bronze detailing. Standing on the bridge, I admired the serene flow of the Isuzu River and the lush greenery surrounding it. It was a moment of perfect tranquility, a chance to connect with nature and reflect on the spiritual significance of this place.

According to the inscription on a stone monument, the Ujibashi Bridge was erected in 646 by Doto, a monk from Gango-ji temple in Nara. The bridge has been rebuilt numerous times, and has appeared in countless works of art and literature, including the Genji monogatari and Kokinshû. Crossing the Ujibashi Bridge is a significant first step for pilgrims visiting the Ise Grand Shrine.

A Culinary Delight at Toufuya

For lunch, we indulged in a delightful tofu-based meal at Toufuya. This restaurant is renowned for its silky tofu and fresh natural anago (saltwater eel) dishes. The building itself is a work of art, constructed without a single nail and offering stunning views of the Isuzu River.


Discover the exquisite flavors of traditional Japanese cuisine at Toufuya in Ise, where tofu takes center stage in every delightful dish.

Toufuya uses Fukuyutaka soybeans from Mie Prefecture and Hokkaido soybeans to create its exquisite tofu. The tofu is handmade by a skilled chef, highlighting the creamy texture and rich flavor of the soybeans. As someone who appreciates culinary arts, I found the meal to be a true masterpiece. Aisha and I savored each bite, appreciating the simplicity and elegance of the dishes.

Shopping at Pearl Falco Ise Gallery

In the afternoon, Aisha and I visited Pearl Falco Ise Gallery. Ise Shima is the birthplace of Akoya pearls, and Pearl Falco is a renowned specialist in these gems. Aisha has always admired pearls, and I thought it would be a wonderful opportunity to learn more about their history and craftsmanship.


Discover the exquisite craftsmanship of pearls at Pearl Falco Ise Gallery, a must-visit destination in Ise for unique jewelry and cultural experience.

Established in 1985, Pearl Falco is dedicated to promoting and selling Akoya pearls, and they are the only company from Ise Shima to do so. We explored the gallery, admiring the exquisite jewelry and learning about the intricate process of pearl cultivation. Aisha was particularly captivated by the Signature Wedding Collection, while I was fascinated by the history and artistry behind each piece.

A Farewell Dinner at Satonaka Sushi

For our final dinner in Ise Shima, we chose Satonaka Sushi, a local favorite known for its traditional tekone zushi. This regional dish features thick slices of bonito seasoned with soy sauce and mixed by hand with vinegared rice. The restaurant has been around for over 70 years, and is part of Shima's history.


Experience authentic Japanese cuisine at Satonaka Sushi in Shima - where tradition meets freshness in every bite.

Satonaka Sushi marinates their tekone-sushi with Tamari soy sauce and mirin. Served with ginger and Shiso (Japanese basil), the flavors were a perfect blend of savory and refreshing. As we enjoyed our meal, we reminisced about our adventures in Ise Shima, cherishing the memories we had created. The taste of the fresh seafood, combined with the warm atmosphere of the restaurant, made for a perfect ending to our day.

Reflections on Our Journey

As our time in Ise Shima comes to an end, I am filled with a deep sense of gratitude for the experiences we have had. From the serene shrines to the stunning natural landscapes and the delicious cuisine, this region has captured our hearts. Aisha and I have immersed ourselves in the local culture, learning about the traditions and history that make this place so special.

This trip has been a reminder of the importance of connecting with nature, respecting cultural heritage, and savoring the simple moments in life. As we prepare to leave Ise Shima, I know that the memories we have made here will stay with us forever.

Tomorrow, we begin our journey back home, carrying with us the spirit of Ise Shima and a renewed appreciation for the beauty and depth of Japanese culture. While our adventure here may be ending, the experiences and lessons we've learned will undoubtedly influence our future travels and our perspective on the world. I am eager to share these insights with you, my readers, hoping to inspire your own journeys of discovery and reflection. Until next time, safe travels and may your paths be filled with wonder.

I am so grateful to have shared this experience with Aisha. Her enthusiasm and curiosity have made this trip even more special. As we prepare to return to Ottawa, I know that we will carry the spirit of Ise Shima in our hearts, cherishing the memories we have made together. It's been an honor to share this journey with you all, and I look forward to bringing you more travel stories from around the world.

Looking back on our decision to travel without pre-booked accommodations, I can confidently say it enriched our experience. It allowed us to be more spontaneous, to connect with locals, and to discover hidden gems that we might have missed otherwise. I encourage you to consider a similar approach in your future travels, embracing the unknown and allowing yourself to be guided by the rhythm of the destination.

As we bid farewell to Ise Shima, I'm already anticipating our next adventure. The world is vast and full of wonders waiting to be explored. I am excited to continue sharing my experiences with you, inspiring you to step outside your comfort zone and discover the beauty that lies beyond the familiar. Thank you for joining me on this incredible journey. Until next time, may your travels be filled with joy, discovery, and meaningful connections.