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Hands-on Insider Experience at a Historic Shrine

Meiwa, JP
100% of travellers recommend this
Excellent (1 reviews)
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Free Cancellation up to before the experience starts (local time)

    Highlights

    • Become a shrine parishioner for a day
    • Create a "goshuin" stamp with your own handwriting
    • See a replica of the sacred shrine treasure
    • Try optional seasonal experiences like making shimenawa ropes
    • Enjoy traditional Heian period lunch with locals
    • Duration 3 hours
    • Private Tour
    • Lunch included
    • Guided in English
    • All fees and taxes included

    Immerse yourselves in the local culture with the Take Shrine Activity with Lunch experience. Become a shrine parishioner for a day, participating in cleaning the shrine grounds, creating your own shrine stamp, and learning about shrine etiquette. Enjoy a traditional lunch from the Heian period and interact with local parishioners. This unique opportunity not only allows you to explore parts of the shrine usually off-limits to the public but also supports the preservation of Take Shrine. Join in on this community activity and gain a deeper understanding of Japanese traditions through hands-on experiences and local interactions. Don't miss out on this unforgettable shrine visit that will leave you with lasting memories of your time in Japan.

    At a Glance

    • Free cancellation
    • 3 hours
    • Available in English
    • Mobile voucher
    • Small Group tour
    • Self-guided
    • Family friendly

    Featured Reviews

    Excellent (1 reviews)
    icon
    Viator
    AhojJaJsemMichal
    Sep 24
    When planning my trip to Japan, I came across this activity unlike any other. While several shrines offer a "Miko experience," this is the only shrine that provides the opportunity to spend a day as an Ujiko, regardless of gender. Take Jinja is located on the way to the main Shinto shrine in Ise, and it just so happened that my trip to Ise fit perfectly into weekend. So, I decided to contact the shrine. All communication went smoothly, and I received quick responses to every question. I was really looking forward to the experience. On Sunday, at the agreed-upon time, I was greeted at the shrine by a group of very cheerful and smiling people. We talked about the shrine, Shinto, and I was given a samue to change into. It was extremely hot, but I was constantly supplied with delicious cold tea. Then we headed outside. First, I was given an explanation of the shrine's history, and then the priest showed me how to properly purify myself with water, after which he performed a purification ritual. This was followed by sweeping and beautifying the grounds in front of the shrine, replacing the shide on the shimenawa, and changing the offerings, including the offering of tamagushi. After that, we moved inside, where we created goshuins and made amulets from hemp. The whole activity concluded with a luxurious lunch featuring a historical bento and delicious rice cooked in bamboo. Everyone was extremely kind and friendly the entire time, patiently answering my questions, and the translation into English was absolutely excellent. I walked away with a deeper understanding of Shinto, beautiful memories, and for several days after the experience, I still felt like I was floating on a cloud. I wholeheartedly recommend this activity to anyone interested in Japanese culture and Shinto. It was truly the highlight of my trip to Japan. Many thanks, Take Jinja!
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    Hands-on Insider Experience at a Historic Shrine

    Immerse yourself in a unique shrine experience with lunch, contributing to local culture at Take Shrine, perfect for all fitness levels.

    Included

    • inclusion
      Guide fee
    • inclusion
      All Fees and Taxes
    • inclusion
      Lunch

    Meeting Point

    If you come by train, you can leave your luggage at Saiku Station's lockers located at the north exit.

    Meeting point

    2757-2 Saikū, Meiwa, Taki District, Mie 515-0321 , Japan

    End point

    End Point

    If you come by train, you can leave your luggage at Saiku Station's lockers located at the north exit.

    Meeting point

    2757-2 Saikū, Meiwa, Taki District, Mie 515-0321 , Japan

    End point

    What to expect

    Most travelers only see Japan’s shrines from the outside. This experience invites you inside — into the quiet world where centuries-old traditions still breathe. In a small town in Mie Prefecture, you’ll be welcomed not as a tourist, but as an honored guest by the Ujiko — the local community who have cared for this shrine for generations. Dressed in traditional Samue robes, you’ll take part in the daily rituals usually reserved for insiders: cleansing the sacred grounds, offering prayers, and joining a rare Tokubetsu Sanpai (special visit to the inner sanctuary). You’ll also craft your own Goshuin, a hand-brushed shrine seal symbolizing your spiritual connection to the place — something you cannot simply buy. The day concludes with a Naorai, a shared meal with the priest and community members, where stories, smiles, and traditions are exchanged freely across cultures. This is an authentic connection with Japan’s living heritage, guided by the people who preserve it. For those seeking meaning beyond sightseeing, this experience is worth every mile.
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    Take Shrine

    In this unique experience, you will become a shrine parishioner for a day. You can help with cleaning the shrine grounds, collecting the offerings given from local parishioners, and learn how to visit and pray to express your gratitude to the gods. Furthermore, you can create a "goshuin" stamp with your own handwriting. In addition to seeing a replica of the sacred shrine treasure "Ema" (a special votive tablet), you can also try optional seasonal experiences such as making shimenawa ropes (Shinto straw ropes used for ritual purification). Lunch made after the image of the ancient Heian period (794-1185) traditional lunch will be offered at the end of the program. Enjoy the delicious food while interacting with local parishioners.

    The experience can be subject to change due to bad weather or unforseen circumstances. We always endeavour to give you the best possible experience.

    Additional Information

    • Additional information
      Not recommended for pregnant travelers
    • Additional information
      Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
    • Additional information
      Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries
    • Additional information
      Public transportation options are available nearby
    • Additional information
      Suitable for all physical fitness levels
    Provided by DMO Hana-meiwa

    What our experts say

    • icon
      Try local dishes at lunch; it's a treat!
    • icon
      Consider making shimenawa ropes seasonally.
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      Explore nearby Saiku Station after.
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      Bring a camera for stunning shrine views.

    Why Book with Evendo?

    More About this Experience

    Introduction:

    Immerse yourself in the rich cultural heritage of Japan with the Take Shrine Activity with Lunch. This sustainable travel experience not only allows you to explore the hidden corners of a sacred shrine but also gives you the opportunity to interact with the local community and participate in traditional rituals.

    What to expect?

    During this unique experience, you will step into the shoes of a shrine parishioner for a day. From cleaning the shrine grounds to learning the proper way to visit and pray to the gods, you will gain a deeper understanding of Japanese religious customs. Additionally, you will have the chance to create your own shrine stamp and participate in optional seasonal activities like making shimenawa ropes.

    Who is this for?

    The Take Shrine Activity with Lunch is perfect for travelers who are looking for an authentic and immersive cultural experience in Japan. Whether you are a history enthusiast, a food lover, or simply someone who enjoys connecting with locals, this activity is designed to cater to a wide range of interests and preferences.

    Why book this?

    Embark on this one-of-a-kind journey to not only explore the hidden treasures of Take Shrine but also to engage with the local community in a meaningful way. By participating in traditional rituals and enjoying a delicious lunch inspired by the ancient Heian period, you will create lasting memories and gain a deeper appreciation for Japanese culture and heritage.

    Good to know

    As part of the experience fee, a portion will go towards the preservation of Take Shrine, ensuring that future generations can continue to enjoy this sacred site. Be prepared to engage in hands-on activities and immerse yourself in the rich history and traditions of Japan. Don't forget to interact with local parishioners during lunch for a truly authentic experience.

    Reviews

    Travelers who have participated in the Take Shrine Activity with Lunch have raved about the unique opportunity to get up close and personal with Japanese culture. From the hands-on activities to the delicious traditional lunch, guests have praised the experience for its authenticity and educational value. Overall, visitors have left feeling enriched and inspired by their time at the shrine.

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