Explore Ise’s sacred shrines on a private walking tour, uncovering myths and traditions with a local guide. Experience Japan’s spiritual heart intimately.
Explore Ise’s sacred shrines on a private walking tour, uncovering myths and traditions with a local guide. Experience Japan’s spiritual heart intimately.
- Futami Okitama Shrine - Nestled along the picturesque coast of Futami, this shrine was traditionally where pilgrims would cleanse themselves with seawater before visiting Ise Jingu. It is renowned for the “Meoto Iwa,” or Wedded Rocks—two sacred stones in the sea linked by a substantial shimenawa rope, representing the union of male and female…
- Futami Okitama Shrine - Nestled along the picturesque coast of Futami, this shrine was traditionally where pilgrims would cleanse themselves with seawater before visiting Ise Jingu. It is renowned for the “Meoto Iwa,” or Wedded Rocks—two sacred stones in the sea linked by a substantial shimenawa rope, representing the union of male and female deities. With waves gently caressing their base and the sun rising over the horizon, the scene inspires a profound sense of spiritual reverence and timeless tranquility.
- Toyouke Daijingu (Ise Jingu Geku, Outer Sanctuary) - The Outer Shrine of Ise Jingu, known as Toyouke Daijingu, is dedicated to Toyouke Ōmikami, the deity of food, clothing, and shelter. Surrounded by a forest of majestic cryptomeria and cypress, the shrine grounds exude a quiet dignity and deep spiritual peace. The shrine’s architecture, crafted entirely from hinoki wood without nails, embodies ancient Shinto aesthetics and the principle of tokowaka, or eternal renewal, which is ceremonially enacted every 20 years through complete reconstruction during the shikinen sengū.
- Sarutahiko Shrine - This shrine venerates Sarutahiko Ōkami, the god of guidance who, according to legend, assisted heavenly deities in reaching the earthly realm. It is particularly esteemed by those seeking clarity or direction in life. Encircled by sacred trees and serene paths, the shrine encourages thoughtful contemplation. Visitors often pause at its symbolic compass stone and ancient altar space to offer prayers for safe journeys and wise decisions, making it a deeply personal and reflective stop on the pilgrimage route.
- Oharai-machi - Oharaimachi is a beautifully preserved Edo-period street situated just outside the Inner Shrine. Once a lively post-pilgrimage town, it now welcomes visitors with its wooden merchant houses, traditional architecture, and warm hospitality. Along its cobblestone streets, local shops offer souvenirs, crafts, and regional delicacies. A highlight is tasting Akafuku mochi—a soft rice cake topped with sweet red bean paste—which bridges past and present in a single bite, providing nourishment and nostalgia in one.
- Ise Jingu - The Inner Shrine, or Kōtai Jingu, is the most sacred site in all of Shinto, enshrining Amaterasu Ōmikami, the sun goddess and ancestral deity of the Imperial family. As visitors cross the Uji Bridge into the forested sanctuary, they enter a realm of profound stillness. The buildings, constructed from hinoki wood in the ancient yuitsu shinmei zukuri style, are rebuilt every 20 years, symbolizing spiritual and physical renewal. The gravel paths, towering trees, and sacred architecture create an atmosphere that transcends time, inviting visitors to connect deeply with the divine spirit of Japan.

- Visit to Sarutahiko Shrine
- Visit to Inner Shrine of Ise Jingu
- Guided tour of Ise shrines
- Visit to Oharaimachi
- Visit to Futami Okitama Shrine
- Transportation during the tour (bus and train)
- Visit to Sarutahiko Shrine
- Visit to Inner Shrine of Ise Jingu
- Guided tour of Ise shrines
- Visit to Oharaimachi
- Visit to Futami Okitama Shrine
- Transportation during the tour (bus and train)
- Transportation to the meeting point
- Transportation to the meeting point
This tour provides a unique chance to explore Ise, the spiritual core of Japan, by visiting its most esteemed shrines in the traditional pilgrimage sequence. The journey begins at the coastal Futami Okitama Shrine, continues to Toyouke Daijingu (Outer Shrine), Sarutahiko Shrine, and concludes at the Inner Shrine (Kōtai Jingu), the most sacred site in…
This tour provides a unique chance to explore Ise, the spiritual core of Japan, by visiting its most esteemed shrines in the traditional pilgrimage sequence. The journey begins at the coastal Futami Okitama Shrine, continues to Toyouke Daijingu (Outer Shrine), Sarutahiko Shrine, and concludes at the Inner Shrine (Kōtai Jingu), the most sacred site in Shinto. Throughout the tour, participants will uncover myths, rituals, and centuries-old traditions with the help of a knowledgeable local guide who brings each location to life. Travelers will walk the same sacred paths as ancient pilgrims, experience the serenity and power of forested sanctuaries, and enjoy a tranquil break in the Edo-style Oharaimachi district, where traditional sweets and charming shops await. With rich cultural storytelling, spiritual insights, and a route seldom covered in a single day, this tour offers a direct connection to Japan’s living heritage in a way that is both personal and unforgettable.
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.