Mie Prefecture’s Hidden Charms: History, Sea, and Gastronomy

Mie Prefecture is a region of many attractions, dotted with historical sites, beautiful coastlines, and gastronomic delights. In this issue, we will share basic information about Mie Prefecture’s area, population, and prefectural capital, and recommend some of the best places to visit in the prefecture. We will also introduce some special experiences and tourist attractions unique to Mie Prefecture.

Basic Information

Area	Approximately 5,776 square kilometers
Population	Approximately 1,813,000
Prefectural capital	Tsu City
Map

Recommended places to visit in Mie Prefecture

Ise-Shima

Photo: https://www.iseshima-kanko.jp/ (Ise Shima)

Ise-Shima: Ise-Shima is a fascinating region in Mie Prefecture where history and mystery intersect. It is home to one of Japan’s oldest and most important Shinto shrines, the Ise Jingu, which attracts many visitors. Ise Jingu consists of the Inner Shrine (Koutai Jingu) and the Outer Shrine (Toyoke Jingu), each of which is a sacred place surrounded by a beautiful forest. The precincts are filled with historical buildings and sacred forests, and worshippers are enveloped in the solemn atmosphere of the shrine. A visit to the shrine is an excellent opportunity to experience a part of Japanese history and religion, and to fully appreciate the mystical charm of Ise-Shima. The area surrounding Ise Jingu Shrine is also dotted with traditional townscapes and restaurants where visitors can enjoy local delicacies. Ise-Shima is a special place where Japanese history, religion, and natural beauty come together.

Ise Jingu

Photo: https://www.kankomie.or.jp/ (Ise Grand Shrine)

Ise Grand Shrine: Ise Grand Shrine is the oldest and most important Shinto shrine in Japan, located in Mie Prefecture. The shrine is divided into two main parts: the Inner Shrine (Naiku), which enshrines the sun goddess Amaterasu, and the Outer Shrine (Geku), which enshrines the god of agriculture and industry, Toyouke.The Inner Shrine is located at the heart of the shrine complex and is home to many of the most important buildings and structures that represent the history and culture of the shrine. The Inner Shrine includes the main sanctuary, which houses the sacred mirror that is said to be a symbol of the sun goddess, as well as the Koutai Jingu, which is dedicated to Emperor Jimmu, the legendary founder of Japan.The Outer Shrine is located about six kilometers from the Inner Shrine and is dedicated to Toyouke, the god of agriculture and industry. The Outer Shrine features a number of facilities where visitors can learn about the history and culture of the shrine, as well as walking paths through the surrounding forest and natural areas.Ise Grand Shrine is a popular destination for visitors from around the world, and is often referred to as “O-Ise-san” by locals. The area around the shrine is also home to many souvenir shops, restaurants, and other attractions that draw tourists to the region.

Toba Aquarium in Toba City

Toba Aquarium: Located in Toba City, Toba Aquarium is proud to be one of the largest aquariums in Japan. Here, visitors can experience the diversity of marine life up close. Particularly popular is the dolphin show, where the dolphins’ artisanal performances captivate the audience. The dolphins perform sophisticated tricks and jumps that will impress you with their intelligence and athleticism. The aquarium is dotted with large aquariums where visitors can observe whale sharks and beautiful coral reef ecosystems. The aquarium also offers educational programs and a hands-on experience corner, expanding visitors’ enjoyment of the mysteries of the sea. Toba Aquarium offers an enjoyable day out for families and those interested in marine life.

Matsuzaka Beef Eating Comparison in Matsusaka City

The Matsuzaka beef is known for its high meat quality, especially the marbled parts, which are rich in fat and melt in the mouth. Enjoy the fresh local ingredients and fully appreciate the gastronomic delights that only Mie Prefecture can offer. This eating experience is an absolute must-do dining adventure for meat lovers.

1. “Yakiniku Misono” is a Yakiniku restaurant located in Matsuzaka, Mie Prefecture, offering Japanese Wagyu beef marbled meat at a reasonable price. Below is detailed information for Yakiniku Bienen:

Address: 1-1-1 Chuo-cho, Matsuzaka-shi, Mie
Opening hours: 17:00-22:00
Closed: No regular holidays
Access: 2 min. walk from Matsuzaka Stn.Menu: Reasonably priced marbled beef such as Matsusaka beef and Japanese black beef.
Interior: The interior of the restaurant is clean and modern, with a relaxed atmosphere reminiscent of a ryotei (traditional Japanese-style restaurant).

“Yakiniku Misono” is located in the center of Matsuzaka City, about a two-minute walk from Matsuzaka Station. It is loved by locals for its reasonably priced marbled meat.

2. Matsuzaka Beef Sukiyaki WADAKIN: WADAKIN is a restaurant that prides itself on its sukiyaki and serves exquisite sukiyaki of Matsuzaka beef. Here, you can savor Matsuzaka beef in a special sukiyaki sauce that combines the sweetness of the fat with the flavor of the meat. Served with fresh vegetables and eggs, sukiyaki creates a luxurious dining experience. The restaurant’s relaxed atmosphere is perfect for special occasions and dates.

Both restaurants have a reputation for offering the best of Matsuzaka beef, making them the perfect choice for a taste of the local flavor. For meat lovers, the Matsuzaka beef eating experience in Mie Prefecture is a gourmet experience not to be missed.