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Geku-sando: Pathway to Spiritual Nourishment

Discover Ise's soul on Geku-sando: a vibrant path to the Outer Shrine, blending culinary delights, local crafts, and spiritual discovery.

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Geku-sando is the traditional path leading to Ise Grand Shrine's Outer Shrine (Geku), formally known as Toyouke Daijingu. This bustling street offers a blend of culinary delights, local crafts, and spiritual ambiance, inviting visitors to savor the journey to the sacred grounds.

A brief summary to Geku-sando (Front Approach leading to Geku Outer Shrine)

Local tips

  • Visit Geku before Naiku: Tradition dictates that you visit the Outer Shrine (Geku) before the Inner Shrine (Naiku).
  • Try Ise Udon: Sample this local specialty, a thick, soft noodle dish with a sweet and savory soy sauce broth.
  • Check out local crafts: Browse the shops for unique souvenirs, such as Ise washi paper products and handcrafted goods.
  • Look for Kikuichi Ise: Visit this knife shop for a unique fortune-telling experience based on Japanese mythology.
  • Enjoy the evening ambiance: Stroll along Geku-sando at night to see the Ise washi lanterns illuminate the street.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    Geku-sando is easily accessible on foot from Iseshi Station. Upon exiting the JR side of Iseshi Station, you'll see a large wooden torii gate. This marks the start of Geku-sando, a 400-meter walk. Follow this path directly to the entrance of Ise Grand Shrine's Outer Shrine (Geku).

  • Public Transport

    Iseshi Station is the primary access point for Geku-sando and the Outer Shrine. From other locations in Ise, use the CAN bus or other local buses to reach Iseshi Station. From the station, follow the walking directions through the torii gate to Geku-sando. Bus fares within Ise average ¥45 per day. A one-day Michikusa Pass for unlimited use of the CAN bus and other local buses in the Ise and Toba area costs ¥1300.

  • Taxi

    Taxis are available at Iseshi Station. From the station, a short taxi ride will take you to the entrance of Geku-sando. Note that you cannot hail a taxi on the street in Ise; use a taxi stand. Taxi fares from Naiku (Inner Shrine) to Geku are approximately ¥2000. Expect to pay around ¥730 for a short taxi ride from Iseshi Station to Geku-Sando.

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Discover more about Geku-sando (Front Approach leading to Geku Outer Shrine)

Geku-sando, the front approach to the Ise Grand Shrine's Outer Shrine (Geku), is more than just a street; it's a sensory experience that prepares visitors for the spiritual heart of Ise. Formally known as Toyouke Daijingu, the Geku enshrines Toyouke Omikami, the deity of food, clothing, and shelter, making Geku-sando a fitting prelude to this sacred space. As you step off the train at Iseshi Station, you're immediately greeted by a large torii gate, marking the entrance to Geku-sando. This 400-meter path stretches towards the Outer Shrine, lined with a delightful mix of time-honored shops and trendy establishments. The street is alive with the aroma of local delicacies, the vibrant colors of handcrafted goods, and the gentle glow of Ise washi lanterns at night. Geku-sando isn't just a place to shop; it's a place to connect with the local culture and traditions. Many shops offer a warm welcome with benches and verandas, inviting visitors to pause and soak in the atmosphere. You can sample Ise udon, a regional noodle dish, savor fresh seafood, or indulge in Matsusaka beef. Don't miss the chance to try the famous mochi (rice cake), a local favorite. The street also provides a glimpse into the history of Ise. The Geku approach gallery displays historical scenes from the Meiji and Taisho eras. Keep an eye out for the Kikuichi Ise knife shop, where you can even get your fortune told using myths. Geku-sando is a vibrant tapestry of culinary delights, cultural experiences, and spiritual preparation, making it an essential part of any visit to Ise Grand Shrine.

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