About Ise Jingu(Shrine)

Ise Jingu, located in Ise City, Mie Prefecture, is the highest shrine in Japan and a special entity that stands at the top of all the shrines in Japan. Officially called "Jingu" it consists of two main shrines, the Inner Shrine (Koutai Jingu) and the Outer Shrine (Toyoke Jingu), and as many as 125 subordinate shrines. Ise Jingu is deeply rooted in Japanese history and culture, and with a history of over 2,000 years, it has been a place of worship for many people from ancient times to the present.

The main attraction of Ise Jingu is its solemn and sacred atmosphere. The Inner Shrine, in particular, is known as the place where Amaterasu, the main deity of Japan, is enshrined. The majestic shrine pavilions and the rich natural surroundings of the shrine grounds bring deep emotion and purification to visitors. The Outer Shrine enshrines Toyoke-no-Omikami, the deity responsible for food, clothing, and shelter, and is a place of tranquility and serenity that differs from the Inner Shrine. By visiting these two shrines, visitors can experience the spirit and culture of Japanese Shintoism.

One of the best places to visit when visiting Ise Jingu is Okage Yokocho. This area flourished as the gate town of Ise Jingu Shrine, and streetscapes from the Edo and Meiji periods have been recreated here, allowing visitors to enjoy traditional architecture and food culture. In particular, tasting local specialties such as Ise udon and Akafuku rice cakes is one of the great pleasures of sightseeing.

In addition, traditional festivals and events such as the "Oshiraishi-mochi event" are held regularly at Ise Jingu Shrine, and participating in these events is a great way to experience local culture and history. In addition, the natural beauty of the Ise Jingu Shrine, such as the clear waters of the Isuzu River and the beautiful forests along the approach to the Inner Shrine, is part of its charm. Stepping into this sacred area, one can strongly feel the spirit of Japanese nature worship that has continued since ancient times.

More than just a tourist attraction, Ise Jingu is a special place that offers visitors the opportunity to deeply immerse themselves in the history, culture, and spirit of Japan. Its sanctity and serenity will give you peace of mind and new insights away from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. For worshippers, Ise Jingu is not just a place for sightseeing, but a journey of the soul.