Mie, the heart of Shinto faith in the heart of nature
Between sea and spirituality, this four-day tour takes you to discover Ise-Shima and the Mie Coast, the cradle of Japanese Shintoism. Between sacred shrines, hot springs, and local cuisine, experience a journey that blends relaxation and Japanese culture.
Day 1, Ise: in the heart of Shintoism
The morning begins gently with a spa session or a hot spring bath. Then, it's off to the Ise-Shima region, the cradle of Japanese Shintoism. You'll visit Ise-jingū Shrine, considered the most sacred in the country. Surrounded by centuries-old cedar trees, the site embodies purity and renewal, central values of this ancient religion. Japanese people have been making pilgrimages here for over two millennia, often dressed in white robes symbolizing purification. The atmosphere is imbued with calm and reverence. At the end of the day, stroll through the narrow streets of Okage Yokocho , reconstructed in the style of the Edo period, where you can sample local delicacies.
Take advantage of the presence of a guide with extensive knowledge of Shinto religion to appreciate the discovery of the shrine.
Day 3, Toba: a village with many faces
You'll arrive in Toba , a charming port town known for its onsen (hot springs) and long fishing tradition. The region is also famous for the ama , Japanese women who harvest pearl oysters without oxygen tanks, a practice recognized as intangible cultural heritage. You can visit the museum dedicated to them or watch a demonstration. In the evening, dinner features Mie beef, renowned for its tenderness and refined flavor, often served grilled or as sukiyaki (sliced onions). Overnight in Toba at a traditional hotel overlooking the bay.
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Day 3: Return
After a Japanese breakfast, you'll have time to admire the sea from your accommodation or visit one last coastal shrine. The seascapes, spiritual traditions, and local cuisine will leave a lasting impression: that of an authentic Japan, where nature, sea, and culture intertwine. Then it's time to hit the road again, refreshed, your heart still filled with the serenity of Ise-Shima.
This excursion is part of the 8-9 day "spirituality and nature" tour between Nara and Mie, departing from the Yoshino Mountains: " The Ancient Roads of Kumano ". AYUMI Voyage advisors are available to create a customized itinerary for you.
Pack comfortable walking shoes and a small backpack for your hikes on mountain trails. Bring some cash, a towel for the onsen (hot springs), and clothing suitable for temperature changes. Finally, respect local customs at shrines by purifying your hands and maintaining a discreet demeanor.
Request a customized quote
AYUMI Voyage excursions are suggestions that are not exhaustive and are intended to inspire you in creating your own tour of Japan with our travel advisors. All our offers, itineraries, and optional services are entirely customized after consultation with you.
Duration
3 days
2 nights
Place
Mie
Walking time
Elevation gain
Ideal season
AYUMI Premium Trip:
recommended additional services
Guide : Ise-jingu is an exceptional place for the Japanese and for the Shinto religion. An experienced and knowledgeable French-speaking guide will lead you, providing all the necessary explanations.
Restaurant reservation: To ensure you don't miss out on the excellence of Japanese cuisine in villages overflowing with fresh and rare produce, our advisors will reserve the best restaurants that meet your requirements.
Driver-guide: To visit Mie efficiently, we recommend being accompanied by a driver-guide. This service will allow you to access more remote areas away from the train stations. You can also enjoy the scenery and relax in the car between excursions. Of course, organizing this trip by train is still possible but would be more complicated.