Ise Jingu: a once in a life time must-visit shrine for all Japanese

Ise Jingu is one of the most important and sacred Shinto shrines in Japan. It enshrines Amaterasu Mikami, who is considered the supreme deity of Japan in Shinto belief. This means that Ise Jingu is the guardian deity of the Japanese people.

The entrance to the main sanctuary of Naiku

It is said that traveling was not allowed for all people in the past, and going to Ise Jingu was an exception. Traveling to Ise Jingu was a huge lifetime event for people during the Edo period; over 4.6 million people visited the shrine in six months.

I took my first trip to Ise Jingu in February 2024. It was a precious, sacred, and magical experience.

A special ceremony for National Foundation Day

I visited on February 11, a national holiday called "National Foundation Day." To celebrate the foundation of Japan, Ise Jingu holds a special ceremony. I woke up early and watched the ceremony, which started at 7:00 AM. The ceremony included a parade of Shinto priests, performances of traditional musical instruments, and praying. The Shinto priests went around small shrines within the shrine precincts and stopped each time to pray.

A parade of Shinto priests on the ceremony of the National Foundation Day

How to plan your visit

Ise Jingu consists of two main areas, Naiku and Geku, which are about 30 minutes away by car. Traffic jams are expected most of the day. It took about 1 hour to go by bus to Geku from Naiku. To fully enjoy the experience, planning the visit for two days is better.

It was also so much fun to try the delicacies of the Ise area. I could try foods that I don't usually have in Tokyo. There is a long street with countless street foods called "Okage Yokocho." People flock to the street after their visit to the shrine, and enjoy snacks and drinks.

The flagship store of Akafuku, the most famous mochi sweets in Ise.

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