• Toyouke Daijingu (Ise Jingu Geku, Outer Sanctuary) - Situated in a serene grove of majestic cryptomeria trees, Toyouke Daijingu—also known as the Outer Shrine or Gekū—is devoted to Toyouke-Ōmikami, the deity of nourishment, attire, and shelter. As the divine provider to Amaterasu Ōmikami, the sun goddess enshrined in the Inner Shrine, Toyouke’s presence symbolizes the sacred balance between sustenance and spirit. The shrine grounds radiate quiet dignity, with each path and structure reflecting the Shinto philosophy of harmony with nature. Like its counterpart, Gekū undergoes the shikinen sengū ritual—being reconstructed every 20 years to maintain spiritual and architectural purity—embodying the ideal of tokowaka, or eternal renewal. Visiting Gekū first honors the traditional pilgrimage sequence, allowing guests to engage with the full spiritual rhythm of Ise Jingu.
• Ise Jingu - Kōtai Jingu, or the Inner Shrine (Naikū), is the spiritual core of Ise Jingu and the most sacred site in all of Shinto. Enshrining Amaterasu Ōmikami, the ancestral deity of the Imperial family and the sun goddess who lights up the world, Naikū has been a center of worship for over 2,000 years. Visitors cross the iconic Uji Bridge and enter a silent realm of ancient forest, where structures made from hinoki cypress—constructed without nails—stand in peaceful harmony with nature. Every step along the gravel paths carries the weight of centuries, connecting today’s guests with generations of past pilgrims. The sacred atmosphere invites reflection and awe, making this a profoundly moving experience and the culmination of the traditional pilgrimage sequence.
• Oharai-machi - After visiting the sacred shrines, guests are led into Oharaimachi, a beautifully preserved historical street that once served as a lively rest stop for pilgrims to Ise Jingu. With its Edo-period wooden storefronts, tiled eaves, and cobbled alleys, Oharaimachi transports visitors back in time while offering a welcoming space to relax. Today, the area is vibrant with local shops and sweet shops where guests can enjoy traditional confections such as Akafuku mochi—a soft rice cake topped with smooth red bean paste—alongside Ise uiro and miso-glazed dango skewers. As the savory and sweet flavors linger, the spirit of old Japan remains vivid, making Oharaimachi the perfect conclusion to a day of sacred exploration.

• Expert local guide
• Visit to Oharaimachi
• option: Reserved-seat limited express train tickets from Nagoya to Ise
• Guided tour of Ise Jingu’s Outer and Inner Shrines

• Lunch

This engaging Ise tour is the sole guided experience that adheres to the traditional pilgrimage sequence—beginning at the Outer Shrine (Gekū), which honors the deity of daily life, and proceeding to the Inner Shrine (Naikū), Japan’s most revered Shinto site dedicated to the sun goddess Amaterasu. Guided by an experienced local expert, participants will gain an understanding of the spiritual significance, legends, and architectural splendor of Ise Jingu, a site of national veneration for over 2,000 years. After exploring both shrines, visitors can enjoy a cultural walk through Oharaimachi, a well-preserved Edo-period street where pilgrims once unwound and today’s visitors can taste traditional sweets like Akafuku mochi. For enhanced comfort, an optional upgrade offers a scenic journey on a limited express train from Nagoya, allowing you to start your adventure with ease. Whether seeking spiritual enrichment, cultural exploration, or a serene retreat into Japan’s enduring traditions, this tour provides an unforgettable and genuine experience.

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.