Mie 4-Day Itinerary: Ninja Culture, Ise Grand Shrine, and Prized Wagyu Beef

What Sort of Place Is Mie, Japan?

Mie Prefecture, located on the Pacific side of central Japan, stretches approximately 170 kilometers north to south and about 80 kilometers east to west. It boasts a rich natural landscape alongside functional urban areas. The Kushida River divides the prefecture into northern and southern regions, with the north featuring Ise Bay and several snow-capped mountains, such as the Suzuka Mountain Range. In contrast, the south is characterized by the beautiful coast of the Shima Peninsula and the towering peaks of the Kii Mountains, including Mount Odaigahara, creating diverse natural scenery.

Mie is home to many famous attractions, including the Ise Grand Shrine, regarded as a spiritual home for the Japanese, the UNESCO World Heritage-listed Kumano Kodo, and the Iga Ninja-related spots. The Ise Grand Shrine comprises 125 shrines, making it a must-visit destination for numerous pilgrims. Nearby, the district of Oharai Machi offers traditional local cuisine and souvenirs. Seafood in the area is exceptionally fresh, especially at the ama huts in Toba City and Shima City. The central area retains many historical sites, such as the National Historic Site Saiku Ruins and Matsusaka Castle in Matsusaka City which is also famous for Matsusaka beef.

Mie Prefecture, rich in nature and culture, offers unique experiences for travelers who love history and outdoor activities!

How to Get There from Tokyo

From Tokyo, take the JR Tokaido Shinkansen at Tokyo Station and travel to Nagoya Station. Once in Nagoya, transfer to the Kintetsu Limited Express to Iga-Kambe Station. From there, take the Iga Railway Iga Line to Uenoshi Station, the starting point of your itinerary. The entire journey takes approximately 3 hours and 45 minutes.

How to Get There from Osaka

From Osaka, take the Kintetsu Limited Express from Osaka-Namba Station to to Iga-Kambe Station. From there, take the Iga Railway Iga Line to Uenoshi Station, the starting point of your itinerary. The entire journey takes approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes.

Day 1: Explore the City of Ninja

Danjiri Museum and Ninja Transformation

Access: a 5-min walk from Uenoshi Station (Iga Railway Iga Line) to Danjiri Museum. 

Iga City is renowned for its long-standing ninja history and is considered the birthplace of the Iga-style ninja. Ninja culture in Iga has deep roots, originating from the "akuto" (local landowners who rebelled against the estates of temples and aristocrats) during the Kamakura period (1185-1333) and evolving into the spy tactics of the "Iga-shu" during the Sengoku period (1467-1573). Ninja played a significant role in Japanese history, and today, visitors can explore the mysterious world of ninja and experience their culture firsthand.

At Danjiri Museum, visitors can not only enjoy impressive exhibits related to the UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage "Ueno Tenjin Festival" but also experience the “Ninja Henshin Dokoro” (Ninja Transformation Spot), where both children and adults can rent ninja costumes. Dressed as ninja, visitors can immerse themselves in Iga's rich historical landmarks, such as the Iga-ryu Ninja Museum and Iga Ueno Castle. Strolling through the streets of Iga in ninja attire feels like stepping into the ancient world of ninja, offering a unique experience that allows visitors to delve deeper into the culture and history of this land.

Iga-ryu Ninja Museum

Iga-ryu Ninja Museum is the ultimate destination to dive into the fascinating world of Japanese ninja culture. The museum showcases the lives, skills, and history of ninja. One of its highlights is the Ninja House, which may appear like an ordinary farmhouse from the outside, but inside, it's packed with hidden mechanisms such as concealed staircases, secret doors, and rotating walls. These clever designs demonstrate how ninja protected their secret techniques.  

The museum also hosts live ninja shows performed by the professional ninja team "Ashura", where they showcase the weapons and techniques used by ninja. From throwing shuriken to real weapon duels, the action-packed performances captivate the audience. Additionally, visitors can explore the Ninja Experience Hall, where they can learn about the various ninja tools like “shuriken” (ninja star) and “mizugumo” (water-walking shoes). Visitors can even try throwing shuriken themselves.

A visit to the Iga-ryu Ninja Museum provides an unforgettable and interactive experience for ninja enthusiasts, and booking tickets in advance through Klook ensures you won’t miss a moment of the excitement. 

Iga Ueno Castle

Access: approx. 5-min walk from Iga-ryu Ninja Museum to Iga Ueno Castle.  

Iga Ueno Castle, also known as "Hakuho Castle", was built by master castle architect and lord of the Iga and Ise provinces Takatora Todo during the Edo period (1603-1868). The castle is renowned for its stone walls, which stand about 30 meters tall, making them some of the highest in Japan. The current main keep is not the original but was reconstructed in 1935. This three-story wooden structure faithfully preserves the appearance of the castle from the Sengoku period.

Inside the castle, numerous artifacts from the Todo family are displayed, including weapons and armor, allowing visitors to immerse themselves in the historical atmosphere. The ceiling on the top floor is adorned with 46 paintings and calligraphy pieces donated by famous artists. From this vantage point, visitors can enjoy a stunning view of the entire castle town.

Coffee Break at HANAMORI COFFEE STAND

Access: Approx. a 10-min walk from Iga Ueno Castle to HANAMORI COFFEE STAND

In the historic castle town of Iga City, visitors will find HANAMORI COFFEE STAND, a charming cafe located inside Nishimachi-ya Kakan, a multi-purpose facility housed in a 130-year-old traditional townhouse. The cafe's name is inspired from local cultural traditions, with "HANAMORI" meaning "flower guardian", inspired by a poem from the famous haiku poet Basho Matsuo, who was born in Iga. 

One of the cafe's specialties is its signature "agepan" fried bread, which is crispy on the outside and soft on the inside, made using locally produced glutinous and non-glutinous rice from Iga. The agepan comes in five flavors: Plain, Cinnamon Sugar, Cocoa, Kinako (roasted soybean flour), and Iga Matcha Azuki. The cafe also serves coffee made from carefully selected beans. Additionally, seasonal desserts and drinks are available, providing customers with new surprises on every visit.

Stay at NIPPONIA HOTEL Igaueno Jokamachi

Access: Approx. a 10-min walk from HANAMORI COFFEE STAND to NIPPONIA HOTEL Igaueno Jokamachi.

NIPPONIA HOTEL Igaueno Jokamachi is a dispersed hotel that transforms historical buildings into modern accommodations, offering guests a unique stay experience. The hotel's design carefully preserves cultural heritage, allowing each guest to relax in an atmosphere rich in history.

The guest rooms are located in various buildings, each with its own unique style and story. From Edo-period (1603-1868) townhouses to Meiji-era (1868-1912) wooden structures, every detail reflects the local craftsmanship and history. The KANMURI building, once an Edo-period herbal medicine shop and inn, retains a Japanese garden and distinctive architectural design, allowing guests to experience its deep historical charm. The KOURAI building, situated at the start of “Iga Kaido” (an ancient road used by many travelers during the Edo period, 1603-1868), blends traditional and modern designs. The MITAKE building, a warm wooden structure that once served as a lumber store during the Meiji period, features historical architectural details.  The NOMATSU building, with its late Edo-period architecture, was the residence of Yukishiba Hirooka, a disciple of haiku master Basho Matsuo, and showcases beautiful latticework.

In addition, the hotel’s restaurant, located in the KANMURI building, serves carefully prepared dishes made from local ingredients, allowing guests to savor fine cuisine in a historical setting.

Additional Experience for Those Who Have an Extra Day: Akame 48 Waterfalls and Ninja Training

Access (By car): approx. a 45-minute drive from NIPPONIA HOTEL Igaueno Jokamachi to Akame 48 Waterfalls.

Access (Public transport): from Uenoshi Station, take the Iga Railway Iga Line to Iga-Kambe Station. Transfer to the Kintetsu Osaka Line and ride to Akameguchi Station. From there, take the Mie Kotsu Bus to Akame-taki, a journey of about 10 minutes. For the bus schedule, please refer to this website.

Akame 48 Waterfalls is an excellent outdoor destination, perfect for travelers with an extra day to explore. Recognized as one of Japan’s 100 Waterfalls, it attracts numerous visitors with its 3.3-kilometer circular trail. Along the path, travelers can enjoy the seasonal beauty of cherry blossoms, fresh greenery, and autumn foliage, as well as view up to 23 different waterfalls.

Beyond the stunning natural scenery, Akame 48 Waterfalls is closely linked to ninja culture, known as a training ground for the famous Iga-ryu ninja. Today, visitors can participate in unique ninja training experiences, learning techniques like stealth and leaping, allowing participants to grasp the essence of Iga ninjutsu. You can also book the Ninja Training Experience in advance through Klook to ensure availability.

Day 2: Stroll Through Matsusaka's Samurai District in a Kimono and Savor Prized Wagyu Beef

Rent a Matsusaka Momen Kimono at Yawataya Kimono Shop

Access (by car): approx. 1 hour and 15-min drive from NIPPONIA HOTEL Igaueno Jokamachi to Yawataya Kimono Shop.

Access (Public transport): from Uenoshi Station, take the Iga Railway Iga Line to Iga-Kambe Station. Transfer to the Kintetsu Limited Express/Express and ride to Matsusaka Station. The journey takes around 1 hour and 20-min. From Matsusaka Station to Yawataya Kimono Shop: Approx. 9-min walk.

In Matsusaka City, visitors can experience wearing the historic Matsusaka Momen kimono while strolling through the city’s charming streets. Matsusaka Momen Kimono is a garment that dates to the Edo period, known for its distinctive deep blue vertical stripe patterns, which were highly popular among the common people of Edo. Today, tourists can rent this traditional attire at KIRAKUYA, a sister store of Yawataya Kimono Shop, which was founded in 1906 and has been dedicated to preserving and promoting Matsusaka’s kimono culture for over a century.

Wearing this traditional kimono while walking through Matsusaka's streets allows visitors to feel as though they’ve traveled back in time, fully immersing themselves in the city’s rich history and culture. 

Matsusaka Castle Ruins and Gojobanyashiki Samurai District

Access: approx. a 15-min walk from Yawataya Kimono Shop to Matsusaka Castle Ruins 

Visitors can delve into the history and culture of Matsusaka City by exploring the imposing Matsusaka Castle, built in 1588 on a 38-meter hill. Although the original structures no longer exist, the majestic stone walls remain, standing as a symbol of Matsusaka. These castle ruins have been designated as a national historic site and are listed among Japan's 100 Famous Castles, offering a breathtaking view of the former castle town. In each season, cherry blossoms and ginkgo trees adorn the castle walls, creating a picturesque scene.

As you exit through the ruins of Matsusaka Castle's rear gate, you can see a stone-paved path lined with striking samurai residences. This well-preserved Gojobanyashiki Samurai District was home to 20 samurai families, who were responsible for safeguarding the castle and ensuring the safety of the area. The residences are known for their unique “makigaki” fences and stone pavements, showcasing the architectural style and lifestyle of the Edo period. Some of these homes are still inhabited by descendants and have been meticulously maintained. In 1990, Matsusaka City restored one of the buildings and opened it to visitors, allowing travelers to personally experience the lives and culture of the samurai.

Former Residence of Harada Jiro

Access:  Approx. a 3-min walk from Gojobanyashiki Samurai District to the Former Residence of Harada Jiro.

The Former Residence of Harada Jiro is a historic samurai house dating back to the late Edo period and is the birthplace of Jiro Harada, a renowned business person during the Meiji and Taisho periods  (1912-1926). He dedicated his wealth to public welfare projects such as schools, hospitals, and scholarships and founded the Harada Sekizenkai Foundation, which still actively supports various social welfare initiatives.

In 2009, the Harada Sekizenkai donated the residence to Matsusaka City. After undergoing restoration, it was opened to the public in 2012  and has been designated as a Tangible Cultural Property of Matsusaka. Visitors can explore this residence to learn more about the life of Jiro Harada while experiencing the rich samurai culture and history of Matsusaka.

Lunch at piece cafe&store, a Bakery Built Inside an Old Warehouse in the Merchant District

Access: Approx. a 10-min walk from the Former Residence of Harada Jiro to piece café&store.

piece cafe&store is a cozy cafe filled with history and warmth. Housed in a renovated rice granary over 100 years old, the cafe specializes in handcrafted bread made daily by skilled bakers, using premium ingredients sourced from various regions. Local specialties include "Negi Miso Bread", made with green onions grown by local farmers in Matsusaka, and “Red Bean Bread” made with filling from Ehime Prefecture.

In addition to its delicious bread the cafe serves aromatic coffee brewed from Myanmar coffee beans. piece cafe&store aims to be a welcoming hub for both local residents and travelers, offering a unique blend of charm, warmth, and cultural diversity.

Merchant District: Former Ozu Residence & Former Hasegawa Residence

Access: approx. 2-min walk from piece café&store to Former Ozu Residence.

Matsusaka City is known as the "Town of Wealthy Merchants", renowned for nurturing numerous successful merchants during the Edo period. Merchants from Matsusaka, such as the Ozu and Hasegawa families, accumulated wealth by establishing shops in Edo (modern-day Tokyo), driving the economic prosperity of Matsusaka.

The Ozu family opened a paper shop in Edo in 1653, which later became the largest supplier of paper products in Edo. Now designated as a prefectural cultural property, the Former Ozu Residence is open to the public and showcases the lifestyle and business practices of wealthy merchants.

The Hasegawas were prominent cotton merchants who established their business, "Tamba-ya," in Edo in 1675. Today, their main residence, the Former Hasegawa Residence, is classified as a National Important Cultural Property, beautifully preserving the atmosphere of its prosperous days and allowing visitors to glimpse the legacy of this influential family.

Dinner at Gyugin Honten With Matsusaka Wagyu Beef

Access: approx. a 2-min walk from Former Hasegawa Residence to Gyugin Honten.

Matsusaka beef is one of Japan's most renowned types of wagyu, celebrated worldwide for its exceptional marbling and rich flavor. Thanks to its outstanding quality, Matsusaka beef  Matsusaka beef has earned a stellar reputation both domestically and internationally. 

In Matsusaka City, a long-established restaurant called Gyugin Honten specializes in serving authentic Matsusaka beef dishes. Founded in 1902, the restaurant maintains its historical charm with a traditional wooden building. Among its signature offerings is the “sukiyaki,” prepared in the local style, which is uniquely seasoned with just sugar and soy sauce, resulting in a distinct and memorable flavor. The menu also features other Matsusaka beef specialties, such as “yakiniku” (grilled meat) and “shabu-shabu,” allowing guests to savor the full spectrum of this premium beef’s exquisite taste.

Taiya Ryokan

Access: approx. a 8-min walk from Gyugin Honten to Taiya Ryokan 

Taiya Ryokan is a traditional inn with a history spanning 220 years, retaining the pure Japanese style of a "hatago" (traveler's inn from the Edo period). This long-established ryokan is known for its warm wooden architecture and heartfelt hospitality. Whether for business or leisure, Taiya Ryokan provides guests with a comfortable and homely experience filled with personal touches.The "okami" (proprietress) enhances this atmosphere by personally arranging fresh flowers in each room, fostering a sense of personal connection.

If you visit Matsusaka City, whether to explore local cuisine or culture, Taiya Ryokan is an ideal place to experience the area's traditional warmth and hospitality.

Additional Experience: Farm-to-Table Matsusaka Beef Sukiyaki at a Farmer’s Inn

This unique farmhouse stay experience in Taikicho allows visitors to engage in a farm-to-table lifestyle while savoring top-quality Matsusaka beef sukiyaki. One of the highlights of the activity is preparing dinner with a local farming family, where you pick fresh vegetables and cook rice, offering an in-depth look into traditional Japanese cooking.

The experience begins with collecting water alongside locals from a source known as "Miracle Water", believed to be a key to longevity. Travelers will then visit a nearby vegetable garden and mushroom shed to gather ingredients for the meal. Back at the farmhouse, they help prepare the sukiyaki and learn how to cook rice over an old-fashioned “kamado” stove, which enhances the rice's flavor. The star of the meal is the rare Matsusaka beef. Together with the fresh local vegetables, the sukiyaki is cooked in the traditional method, providing a true "slow food" experience.

The experience also includes a stay at the farmhouse, book with ByFood to fully relax and immerse yourself in this unique rural lifestyle!

Day 3: Dive into the World of Japanese Pearls and Ama Diver Traditions

Mikimoto Pearl Island

Access (By car): approx. a 50-min drive from Taiya Ryokan to Mikimoto Pearl Island. 

Access (Public transport): from Matsusaka Station, take the Kintetsu Limited Express and ride to Toba Station. The journey takes around 27-min. From Toba Station to Mikimoto Pearl Island: Approx. 5-min walk.

Mikimoto Pearl Island is renowned as the birthplace of the world’s first successful cultured pearl farming, achieved by Kokichi Mikimoto in 1893. Today, the island is a key destination for those interested in pearl culture. Visitors can explore the Pearl Museum, which offers deep insights into the history, artistry, craftsmanship, and science behind pearls. Additionally, the Kokichi Mikimoto Memorial Hall honors the life and achievements of the "Pearl King", showcasing his pioneering work.

One of the most captivating attractions is the traditional ama demonstration. Here, visitors can watch Japanese women divers, dressed in traditional white attire, performing the age-old practice of pearl diving, which was once crucial to pearl cultivation. 

Lunch With the Ama at Ama Hut Hachiman Kamado

Access (By car): Approx. a 22-min drive rom Mikimoto Pearl Island to AMA hut HACHIMAN Kamado

Access (Public transport): Take the shuttle bus (AMA BUS) provided by the shop at Toba Station. The journey takes around 30-min.  (Reservation needed, check this page for the timetable)

AMA hut HACHIMAN Kamado is an excellent place to experience Japan's traditional ama culture. Historically, these huts were frontline bases for the ama, where they would gather after diving, warming themselves while sharing lively conversations.

At AMA hut HACHIMAN Kamado, various experience packages are offered, allowing visitors not only to taste freshly grilled seafood prepared by the ama themselves but also to hear their stories about the diving lifestyle . From the lighter "Tea Time Set”, to the luxurious "Special Luxury Set" featuring Ise lobster and abalone, there's a wide range of options catering to different tastes. Whether savoring simple shellfish snacks or indulging in a lavish charcoal-grilled feast, the culinary experiences here are unforgettable.

Yokoyama View Point

Access (By car): Approx. a 26-min drive from AMA hut HACHIMAN Kamado to Yokoyama View Point. 

Access (Public transport): From Toba Station, take the Kintetsu Limited Express and ride to Ugata Station. The journey takes around 25-min. From Ugata Station to Yokoyama View Point: Approx 10-min taxi drive. Alternatively, if you prefer walking, take the Kintetsu Local Train from Toba Station to Shima-Yokoyama Station, which takes around 35 minutes. From Shima-Yokoyama Station, it's roughly a 45-minute walk to the Yokoyama View Point.

Yokoyama View Point is located within the Ise-Shima National Park and is an excellent spot for enjoying the stunning views of Ago Bay. The viewpoint features several observation platforms connected by walking trails. The most popular spot is the "Yokoyama Tenku Cafe Terrace", situated at an elevation of 140 meters, offering magnificent vistas of Ago Bay. The cafe here serves drinks and light meals made from local ingredients, allowing visitors to savor delicious food while enjoying the natural beauty.

The walking trails extend to the "Komorebi Terrace" and the "Soyokaze Terrace”, each providing different elevation experiences. Additionally, seasonal flowers surround the view point, including cherry blossoms and azaleas in spring and hydrangeas in summer, adding different natural charms throughout the seasons.

Inishie no Yado Ikyu

Access (By car): Approx. a 31-min drive from Yokoyama View Point to Inishie no Yado Ikyu.

Access (Public transport): From Ugata Station, take the Kintetsu Limited Express and ride to Isuzugawa Station. The journey takes around 35-min. From Isuzugawa Station to Inishie no Yado Ikyu: Approx 8-min taxi drive.

Inishie no Yado Ikyu is a luxury ryokan located in Ise City, just a 15-minute walk from the famous Ise Grand Shrine's “Naiku” (Inner Shrine), offering guests a convenient morning visit to the shrine. The inn features 58 guest rooms,  each with its own private open-air onsen. In addition to private baths, the ryokan has two large public baths—an "iwa-buro" (rock bath) and a "hinoki-buro" (cypress bath)—as well as three unique reserved open-air baths.

The dining experience is also a highlight of the ryokan. Guests can savor Japanese course meals featuring Matsusaka beef and local food, crafted with seasonal ingredients to showcase the rich flavors of Ise.

Day 4: Discover the Spiritual Majesty of Ise Grand Shrine and Meoto Iwa

Ise Grand Shrine, Oharai Machi, and Okage Yokocho

Access: Approx. a 15-min walk from Inishie no Yado Ikyu to Ise Grand Shrine (Naiku).

Ise Jingu, or Ise Grand Shrine, is one of the most significant Shinto shrines in Japan, comprising a total of 125 individual shrines. At its heart lies the Inner Shrine (Naiku), which has been dedicated for nearly 2,000 years to Amaterasu-Omikami, the goddess of the sun and the ancestral deity of the Imperial family. The Outer Shrine (Geku), dating back around 1,500 years, enshrines Toyouke-no-Omikami, the deity of food, clothing, and shelter.

After visiting the shrine, tourists can explore the nearby Oharai Machi and Okage Yokocho districts. Oharai Machi is a historical street that stretches from the Inner Shrine’s Uji Bashi Bridge to Sarutahiko Shrine. Lined with traditional shops and souvenir stores, it preserves Ise's unique architectural style. Meanwhile, Okage Yokocho recreates the atmosphere of the Edo and Meiji periods with its preserved architecture and offers local delicacies. Visitors shouldn’t miss “akafuku mochi,” a renowned traditional sweet from Mie that consists of chewy rice cakes topped with sweet red bean paste.

Meoto Iwa

Access (By car): Approx. an 18-min drive from Ise Grand Shrine (Naiku) to Meoto Iwa.

Access (Public Transport): Take the Ise Futami Toba Tour Bus (CAN Bus) from the Naiku-mae Bus Stop and get off at the Meotoiwa East Entrance Bus Stop. The ride takes approximately 26 minutes. For the latest bus schedule, please refer to the timetable available on this page.

The Meoto Iwa is a famous landmark in Futamiura, long considered a sacred place. This pair of natural rocks represents the union of a couple, with the "male" rock standing 9 meters tall and the "female" rock standing 4 meters tall. The two rocks are connected by a large “shimenawa” rope, which stretches 35 meters, signifying their bond.

From May to July each year, visitors can witness the magnificent sunrise between the rocks. Around the summer solstice, on clear days, it is even possible to see the sun rise from behind Mount Fuji in the distance. Additionally, the full moon rising between the rocks during the autumn and winter months offers a stunning spectacle, drawing both photographers and pilgrims alike

Hinjitsukan

Access: approx. a 3-min walk from Meoto Iwa to Hinjitsukan.

Hinjitsukan, located in Futami, is a historic building constructed in 1887 to host distinguished guests visiting the Ise Grand Shrine and is now designated as an Important Cultural Property of Japan. Hinjitsukan underwent two major expansions and renovations during the late Meiji to early Taisho periods, as well as in the early Showa period (1926-1989). It has hosted prominent figures, including Emperor Taisho.

Inside, the grand hall boasts a stunning coffered ceiling and a noh stage still used for cultural events. The "Goten-no-ma" room retains its original intricate double-layered ceilings and exquisite inlay decorations, highlighting the building's elegance. Visitors can also enjoy a peaceful stroll through Hinjitsukan's serene garden, further enhancing the tranquil experience.

Stop at Bontin Cafe Misogi for a Break Before Heading Back

The cafe, located within the grounds of Futami Okitama Shrine, is a charming place offering stunning sea views. Visitors can not only enjoy rich coffee but also take in the magnificent scenery of Ise Bay.

In addition to its exquisite coffee, the cafe's specialty menu includes the “Okitama Sandwich”, made with whole grain bread, paired with fresh egg salad and shiso leaves, providing a unique and delicious taste. There are also various homemade baked sweets, such as scones, cheesecake, and brownies,  each offering a delightful experience.

Ninja, Ise Grand Shrine, and Wagyu Beef: A 4-Day Itinerary in Mie Prefecture

From the spiritual solemnity of Ise Grand Shrine to the thrill of ninja culture, from the timeless practices of the ama divers to the refined flavors of Matsusaka beef, each experience in Mie offers a unique window into Japanese culture. This four-day journey through Mie reveals why the prefecture deserves a prominent place on any Japan itinerary. Whether you're a first-time visitor to Japan or a seasoned traveler seeking authentic experiences off the beaten path, Mie Prefecture rewards those who venture into its bounds with memories that will last a lifetime.