The Ise Grand Shrine is the most important Shinto complex in Japan. Dedicated to the sun goddess Amaterasu-Omikami, the complex is made-up of multiple shrines—a total of 125—and other structures centered around the Kotai Jingu (Inner Shrine) and Geku (Outer Shrine). Ise Shrine is also said to house the “Holy Mirror”—one of the three imperial regalia along with the legendary sword at Atsuta Shrine and the sacred jewel at the Imperial Palace.

The overall complex covers a huge area with many important sites and features leading to the shrines. The Kotai Jingu—also referred to as the ‘Naiku’—is regarded as the most sacred sanctuary in Japan. Enshrining Amaterasu-Omikami—the ancestral deity of the Imperial Family—for 2000 years, Naiku embodies the spirit and spiritual beliefs of the Japanese people.

The Geku enshrines another deity, Toyo’uke-no-Omikami and is said to have done so for at least 1500 years.

The inner shrine is dismantled, moved, and reconstructed every 20 years. Next occurring in 2033, this tradition embodies the Shinto belief that death and renewal are a necessary and constant aspect of existence while serving the practical task of teaching each generation the skills needed to construct and maintain the shrines.

The two main shrines stand several kilometres apart, with the Geku located in the centre of Ise—nearby Ujiyama Station—while the Naiku can be reached by bus from the station. The Ise Grand Shrine is quite simply, one of Japan’s most important religious centers and a fascinating destination for persons of any faith or background.

Want to experience Nagoya’s unique culture for yourself?

Based in Central Japan and operating all-year-round, we offer highly entertaining group-tours of Nagoya and the surrounding areas that are sure to please. All tours are led by locally-based guides and will take you around the must-see sights in the region, as well as some lesser known gems. Our tours are fun, interactive and family-friendly. For more information, or to book a tour, click on the banner.

1 Day Tour

1-Day Tour from Nagoya: Ise’s Sacred Shrines and Captivating Coastlines
Period	All Year Round
Time	9:00~18:00
Meeting Place	JR Nagoya Station
Adult Rate	¥24,900
Child Rate	¥19,900

Of course, we also offer private tours and transport in and around the Nagoya area, and other regional destinations. Our drivers and vehicles are fully certified, allowing us to transport you to and from your preferred destinations in combination with any activity that suits your schedule. All vehicles are well-maintained and in good condition, allowing you to relax and enjoy your ride to wherever you are going. 

We can arrange both private tours with an English-speaking guide or a private charter. With door-to-door service, we can pick you up from where you are and take you to where you want to go anywhere in Central Japan and the neighboring regions. For more information, please click HERE to check availability and pricing for your trip. We’d love to be part of your adventure in Central Japan and help you discover even more!

Information regarding accommodation in and around Ise can be found through our ‘Ise Shima Area’ hotel page.