Classic Ise & Toba Day Tour in Japan | Ise Jingu・Toba Aquarium/Mikimoto Pearl Island・Meoto Iwa | Round-trip from Nagoya
- Cultural Experience: Gain an in-depth understanding of the Shinto rituals of Ise Jingu and Japanese history and culture.
- Marine Wonders: Experience Ama pearl diving, visit the Pearl Museum, and learn about the origins and production process of pearls.
- Natural Beauty: Admire the magnificent scenery of the Meoto Iwa (Wedded Rocks) and feel the tranquility of nature at Futami Sea Park.
- Spiritual Blessings: Pray for traffic safety and happiness at Futami Okitama Shrine.
Package options
Sightseeing Tours
| Tour Type | Shared tour |
| Transportation method | Transfer from meeting point |
| Luggage limit | 1 piece |
| Minimum participant requirement | 6 travelers |
| Meal arrangement | Arrange yourself |
| Sightseeing type | Natural sights, Temples & shrines |
| Transport | Bus tour |
Product Info
Depart from downtown Nagoya for a one-day journey to experience the culture and nature of Mie Prefecture.
First, visit Ise Jingu, known as a place that 'every Japanese person should visit at least once in their lifetime.' It is dedicated to the sun goddess Amaterasu Omikami, the ancestral deity of the Japanese Imperial Family, and is steeped in history and solemnity. After paying your respects at the Geku (Outer Shrine) and Naiku (Inner Shrine), you can stroll through the lively Oharai-machi and Okage Yokocho to soak in the Edo-period atmosphere and enjoy local delicacies like Ise Udon and Akafuku mochi.
Next, head to Mikimoto Pearl Island in Toba Bay, the birthplace of the world's first cultured pearls. You can visit the Pearl Museum, admire various pearl jewelry, and watch a live demonstration by 'Ama' divers in their traditional white outfits, gaining a deeper understanding of the origins and heritage of Japan's pearl culture.
If you choose not to visit the Pearl Island, you can head to the nearby Toba Aquarium, the only aquarium in Asia that exhibits the rare 'mermaid' dugong. With over 1,200 species of marine life on display, it is a paradise for families and nature lovers.
Finally, we will visit Futami Okitama Shrine, located on the Futamiura coast. Pray for good fortune and peace at this shrine, which is famously symbolized by the 'Meoto Iwa' (Wedded Rocks). Since ancient times, this site has served as a place of purification for those traveling to Ise Jingu, offering a serene and peaceful atmosphere.
After a fulfilling day, return to downtown Nagoya to conclude this rich itinerary that blends Japanese religious culture, marine experiences, and spiritual wishes.
- Itinerary Suggestion: Mikimoto Pearl Island vs. Toba Aquarium (Choose one)
Mikimoto Pearl Island: Suitable for travelers interested in Japanese pearl culture and history, or adults who prefer static exhibitions and cultural experiences.
Toba Aquarium: Suitable for families, couples, or guests who love marine life. The venue is diverse, lively, and engaging with high interactivity.
Sunny day: Pearl Island is recommended for better viewing of the outdoor Ama diver performance.
Rainy day: Toba Aquarium is recommended as it is an all-indoor facility, ensuring the itinerary is unaffected by the weather.
－Important Information－
- Tour group size is 6-45 people.
- Small group: 1-13 people; Large bus group: 22-45 people. The actual number of participants will be adjusted based on the day's bookings.
- For groups of 14 or fewer, the driver will act as the tour leader (Chinese/basic English). For groups of 14-45, an additional tour leader (Chinese/basic English) will be provided.
- Reference vehicle types: 5-8 seater: Toyota Alphard or equivalent; 9-14 seater: Toyota Hiace or equivalent; 18-22 seater: minibus; 22+ seater: large coach. The above vehicles are for reference only; the actual vehicle model will be adjusted based on the number of participants on the day.
- For large group tours, children aged 0-2 who do not occupy a seat are free of charge; those aged 3 and above are charged the adult price. For groups of 13 or fewer, overloading is not permitted, and children are charged the same as adults. (Please note if you are traveling with children when placing your order.)
- Each passenger may carry one small handbag. If you need to bring a suitcase or large luggage, an additional fee of 2,000 JPY per item must be paid on-site. Please contact us in advance or include a note in your order.
【Ise Jingu】: One of the most important shrines in Japan, divided into the 'Naiku' (Inner Shrine) and 'Geku' (Outer Shrine). The Naiku is located along the Isuzu River in Ise City, surrounded by dense forests, creating a solemn and tranquil environment. The main pilgrimage route passes through: Uji Bridge: Symbolizing the entrance to the sacred realm.
Isuzugawa Mitarai-ba: A place for purification before worship, where you can wash your hands and rinse your mouth. Shogu (Main Hall): The main shrine dedicated to Amaterasu Omikami. While general visitors can only worship from the perimeter, you can still feel a strong sense of holiness. The architectural style is known as 'Shinmei-zukuri,' the oldest form of shrine architecture in Japan, featuring a roof decorated with thatch and horizontal logs, appearing pure and solemn. Special Tradition: Shikinen Sengu. Every 20 years, a 'Sengu' ceremony is held to transfer the deity and ritual objects from the old shrine to a new one, and all shrine buildings are rebuilt. This tradition has continued for over 1,300 years, symbolizing 'rebirth and sustainability.' The most recent one was in 2013, and the next is scheduled for 2033.
Recommended order of worship: Geku → Naiku (if time permits), but most sightseeing tours only visit the Naiku. Photography of the main hall and shrine staff is prohibited inside the Naiku; please respect the shrine's rules. You can receive a Goshuin (shrine seal) at the 'Kaguraden' (for a fee) as a souvenir of your visit.
For lunch, you can freely choose local snacks (such as Ise Udon, hand-rolled sushi, Akafuku, etc.). Recommended lunch spots around Ise Jingu: 1. Fukusuke Ise Udon (ふくすけ うどん). Recommended reason: A century-old shop using hand-kneaded udon noodles with Ise-style sauce, chewy and rich. Popular items: Ise Udon, Tororo Udon, Fried Tofu Udon. Price range: 800-1,200 JPY. 2. Akafuku Main Store (Dessert + Light Meal). Recommended reason: Founded in 1707, it is the most classic dessert shop after visiting Ise Jingu. Popular items: Akafuku mochi served with matcha, with indoor seating available. Suitable for: Travelers looking for snacks or a light lunch. Price range: 400-1,000 JPY.
Mikimoto Pearl Island is the birthplace of pearl cultivation, where you can watch ama diver performances, visit the Pearl Museum, and purchase jewelry.
Mikimoto Pearl Island Business Hours
Ama diver performance time: If the business hours end at 16:30 on the day, the last Ama performance will be at 15:30, and the 16:30 session will not be held.
Toba Aquarium is located in Toba City, Mie Prefecture, Japan, and is the only aquarium in Asia where you can see dugongs. Known as the 'prototype of the mermaid,' the dugong is an endangered marine mammal. The dugong here, nicknamed 'Serena,' has been kept in the aquarium for over 30 years. It consumes about 30kg of seagrass daily, has a round shape, and a gentle personality, making it very popular with visitors. Opening Hours & Admission (Admission not included in the tour): Opening Hours: Open all year round, 9:30-17:00 (8:30-17:30 from July 20 to August 31). Admission: Adults (High school students and above): 2,800 JPY; Elementary/Junior high school students: 1,600 JPY; Children (3 years and above): 800 JPY. Address: 3-3-6 Toba, Toba City, Mie Prefecture. Phone: 0599-25-2555.
Futami Okitama Shrine: A 'frog shrine' believed to bless visitors with good relationships, marital harmony, good fortune, and traffic safety at home. Meoto Iwa (Wedded Rocks) is a name for unique rock formations found across Japan, referring to two rocks standing side-by-side like a married couple. The most famous ones are located at Futami Okitama Shrine in Futami-cho, Ise City, Mie Prefecture.
Purchase Notice
【Travel Conditions】
Departure/Destination: Aichi/Mie
Duration: Same-day round trip
Transportation: Chartered Bus
Bus Company: AMA Transportation, etc.
Meals: Breakfast 0, Lunch 0, Dinner 0
Accommodation: None
Minimum Group Size: 6
Tour Leader: 1
Tour Guide: 0
【Travel Planning/Implementation】
Operating Company: KKT Co., Ltd.
Address: 1770-23 Kashiwai-cho 1-chome, Ichikawa-shi, Chiba, Japan
License Number: Chiba Prefecture Governor Registered Travel Agency No. 2-1131
Reminders
A minimum of 6 traveler(s) are required for the tour to depart. If the number of participants does not reach the minimum requirement, the tour will be canceled. An email regarding tour cancellation will be sent 4 day(s) before the departure date
In case of delays caused by traffic, weather, or other force majeure factors resulting in the cancellation of some itinerary attractions, please contact customer service. We will arrange a partial refund for you
In the event of inclement weather such as typhoons or snowstorms, a decision on whether to cancel the tour will be made 1 day(s) before departure (local time 18:00). Notifications will then be sent via email
Travelers with the following conditions or other health issues that could be worsened by excessive stimulation should not participate in this activity: High blood pressure, Heart disease, Acrophobia, Asthma, Epilepsy, Pregnant women
Please arrive at the designated location 15 minute(s) before the scheduled departure time, as the tour will depart on time
Sightseeing time and arrival times at each attraction may change (be reduced or compressed) depending on the weather and traffic conditions of the day. We appreciate your understanding for any inconvenience caused.
Please adhere to the meeting times and the scheduled time for each tour activity.
Meals are not included in the itinerary; lunch is at your own expense. There are dining options at each attraction, or you may prepare your own.
This tour does not accept individual bookings for travelers under 18 years old. If you need to book, please have your guardian join the tour with you.
This is a shared fixed-itinerary tour. Customers participating in this tour must adhere to the stay duration at each attraction and follow the driver's arrangements.
If you leave the group on your own during the tour, the transaction will be considered void, and no refunds will be provided. You will be responsible for any personal or property safety consequences resulting from this action.
Please be aware that force majeure factors such as traffic jams may occur on weekends and public holidays. The driver-guide may adjust the itinerary based on the specific situation; please note that refund requests due to these factors will not be accepted.
Small group tours will be operated by a vehicle with a driver-guide. Please note that this is a shared service with other passengers, and parking is only permitted at designated attractions.
FAQs
1. What is the spiritual and historical significance of Ise Grand Shrine?
Ise Grand Shrine, or Ise Jingu, is Japan's most revered Shinto shrine, dedicated to Amaterasu Omikami, the sun goddess and ancestral deity of the Imperial Family. Its spiritual importance stems from being the spiritual home of the Japanese people. Historically, it holds immense cultural weight, symbolizing ancient Shinto traditions and the deep connection between the Imperial Household and the nation's spiritual well-being, making it a pivotal site for understanding Japanese heritage.
2. Why is Ise Grand Shrine rebuilt every 20 years?
The tradition of rebuilding Ise Grand Shrine every 20 years is known as Shikinen Sengu. This practice, dating back over 1,300 years, involves meticulously reconstructing the main shrine buildings, bridges, and torii gates on an adjacent site using traditional techniques. It symbolizes the eternal renewal and transmission of ancient architectural skills, ensuring the purity and vitality of the shrine while passing down craftsmanship to new generations.
3. Is Ise Grand Shrine considered the most sacred site in Japan?
Yes, Ise Grand Shrine is widely regarded as the spiritual heart and most sacred site in Japan. It consists of two main shrines, Naiku (Inner Shrine) dedicated to Amaterasu Omikami, and Geku (Outer Shrine) dedicated to Toyouke Omikami, the goddess of food. Its unparalleled spiritual importance and ancient traditions distinguish it as the paramount sanctuary for Shinto worship and national reverence.
4. What makes visiting Ise Grand Shrine a worthwhile cultural experience?
Visiting Ise Grand Shrine offers a profound cultural experience due to its deep historical roots and sacred atmosphere. Guests can gain a deeper understanding of Shinto rituals, observe traditional Japanese architecture, and explore the serene natural surroundings. The approach through Oharai-machi and Okage-yokocho provides a glimpse into traditional Edo period life, enriching the cultural immersion beyond the shrine itself.
5. What can visitors experience at Mikimoto Pearl Island?
At Mikimoto Pearl Island, visitors can witness the captivating tradition of Ama pearl divers, who perform demonstrations of their free-diving techniques. The Pearl Museum offers insights into the history of pearls, their cultivation process, and displays of exquisite pearl jewelry. It’s an engaging way to learn about the origin and production of pearls, and a unique cultural highlight.
6. What is special about the Meotoiwa Rocks and Futami Okitama Shrine?
The Meotoiwa Rocks, or "Wedded Rocks," are two large rocks tied together by a sacred shimenawa rope, symbolizing marital harmony and a good match. Located offshore, they offer stunning views, especially at sunrise when the sun appears between them. Futami Okitama Shrine, nearby, is dedicated to the gods of marriage and purification, and is notable for its numerous frog statues, believed to bring good luck and safe travel.
7. What unique marine life can be seen at Toba Aquarium?
Toba Aquarium is one of Japan's largest aquariums, renowned for its diverse collection of marine life. It features various zones showcasing creatures from local Ise-Shima waters and around the world. Highlights often include adorable dugongs, sea otters, various species of dolphins and seals, and a wide array of colorful fish and invertebrates in extensive, beautifully designed tanks.
8. What are the recommended highlights to explore within Ise Grand Shrine's complex?
Within Ise Grand Shrine's vast complex, key highlights include Naiku (the Inner Shrine) dedicated to Amaterasu Omikami, and Geku (the Outer Shrine) for Toyouke Omikami. Visitors should also walk through the serene forest paths leading to the main sanctuaries, cross the Uji Bridge which marks the entrance to Naiku, and observe the purity of the Isuzu River. The distinct architectural style of the shrines is also a must-see.
