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Ise-Shima National Park: A Sanctuary of Nature and Culture

Discover Ise-Shima National Park: Where ancient shrines meet stunning coastlines, and traditions thrive in harmony with nature's beauty.

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Ise-Shima National Park, located on the Shima Peninsula in Mie Prefecture, Japan, is a stunning blend of natural beauty and cultural significance. Encompassing a ria coastline, forested interior, and the sacred Ise Grand Shrine, it offers a diverse landscape and a rich history.

A brief summary to Ise-Shima National Park

Local tips

  • Visit Ise Jingu, the most important Shinto shrine in Japan, and explore its 125 shrines.
  • Take a scenic cruise or kayak tour of Ago Bay to appreciate its ria coastline and pearl cultivation rafts.
  • Learn about the Ama female divers and their traditional fishing techniques at an Ama hut.
  • Drive along the Ise-Shima Skyline for panoramic views of Ise Bay and the surrounding landscape.
  • Sample local delicacies such as Japanese spiny lobster, abalone, and Ise Udon.
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Getting There

  • Train and Bus

    From Nagoya Station, take the Kintetsu Limited Express train to Iseshi Station (approx. 80-90 minutes). From Iseshi Station, the CAN Bus provides convenient access to major sites, including Ise Jingu's Geku (Outer Shrine) and Naiku (Inner Shrine). The bus ride to Naiku takes about 20 minutes. A one-day Michikusa bus pass offers unlimited rides on specific routes. Single bus fares are around ¥400.

  • Ferry and Bus

    From Chubu Centrair International Airport (NGO), take a high-speed boat to Tsu-Nagisamachi (45 min). Transfer to an express bus to Toba Bus Center, stopping at Ise Jingu's Geku and Naiku (85–115 min). Bus fares vary depending on the destination, but expect to pay around ¥2,000-¥3,000 for the bus portion of the trip.

  • Car

    If driving, use the Ise Expressway to access Ise-Shima. Note that tolls apply. Parking is available near major attractions like Ise Jingu, with various municipal and private parking lots available. Parking fees typically range from ¥500-¥800 per day. Consider using the Ise-Shima Skyline, a scenic toll road, for panoramic views. The toll for a regular car is approximately ¥1020.

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Discover more about Ise-Shima National Park

Ise-Shima National Park, established in 1946, is a captivating region where nature and culture intertwine. The park's diverse landscape includes a dramatic ria coastline with numerous inlets and islands, a heavily forested interior, and the serene Ago Bay. This harmonious blend has been recognized as one of Japan's most outstanding landscapes. The park is home to Ise Grand Shrine (Ise Jingu), Japan's most venerated Shinto site, comprised of 125 shrines with a history stretching back 2,000 years. The shrine is dedicated to Amaterasu Omikami, the mythical sun deity, and embodies the deep connection between people and nature. The tradition of Shikinen Sengu, rebuilding the shrine every 20 years, preserves ancient craftsmanship. Ise-Shima has been known as Miketsu Kuni, provider of food to the imperial court, since ancient times, blessed with an abundance of seafood. The park's maritime heritage is reflected in the traditions of the Ama, female free divers who harvest seaweed and shellfish. Visitors can explore pearl cultivation, a local industry pioneered by Kokichi Mikimoto, and enjoy the sight of pearl rafts floating in the bays. The park offers various activities, including hiking the Kinki Nature Trail, sea kayaking in Ago Bay, and exploring the local culture. Scenic drives along the Pearl Road and Ise-Shima Skyline offer panoramic views. Visitors can immerse themselves in the region's history, culture, and natural beauty, experiencing the harmonious coexistence of people and nature.

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