Mie Prefecture lies near the center of Japan, with convenient access from Nagoya, Osaka, and Kyoto. Beyond the prestigious Ise Grand Shrine and the UNESCO-listed Kumano Kodo trails, it offers the stunning Shima coastline and the globally famous Suzuka Circuit. Here, we’ve handpicked experiences that let you immerse yourself in Mie’s culture and natural wonders, not just its tourist spots.

Take the Wheel on the Actual FORMULA 1 JAPANESE GRAND PRIX course with Circuit Challenger

Suzuka Circuit, the stage for the FORMULA 1 JAPANESE GRAND PRIX, is a mecca for motorsport enthusiasts worldwide. But it’s more than just a place to watch the action. For travelers from abroad, the Circuit Challenger offers a unique chance to drive a specially designed EV kart on the real East Course yourself.

The experience lets you savor the adrenaline of high-speed straights and the precision of cornering. Afterward, you receive a sheet detailing your driving performance, giving everyone a genuine taste of what it feels like to be a professional racer.

Explore the Castle Town Wearing Traditional Matsusaka Cotton

Famous for its premium wagyu, Matsusaka beef, Matsusaka City in Mie Prefecture was a thriving hub of wealthy merchants in the Edo period. Today, that legacy lives on in Matsusaka cotton, known for its indigo-striped pattern. Strong yet soft, this fabric was once highly sought after in Edo.

Matsusaka City offers a unique chance to wear Matsusaka cotton while exploring the historic castle town. Experiencing the streets in traditional Japanese clothing is a special opportunity, with many photogenic spots. And of course, be sure to enjoy Matsusaka beef. Here, you can combine sightseeing, gourmet dining, and an authentic cultural experience in one visit.

Experience Ninja Training Amid the Akame 48 Waterfalls

Mie Prefecture, home to Iga, is rich in ninja heritage. In particular, Akame 48 Waterfalls in Nabari City offers a unique chance to try ninja training in the heart of beautiful nature. Akame Valley, with its cascading waterfalls of all sizes, is said to be a legendary site where ninjas once practiced their craft.

At this historic ninja site, you can wear the traditional black outfit and try authentic ninja training. Test your skills with waterfall meditation to build mental strength, water-crossing exercises, blowgun practice, and shuriken throwing. Fun for both kids and adults, this is a chance to experience the ninja world straight out of movies and anime.
*Waterfall meditation and water-crossing exercises are only offered in summer.

Experience Life with Ama Divers at a Traditional Ama Hut

Mie Prefecture’s Ise-Shima region is renowned for its enduring ama diver culture. Ama are women who dive without breathing gear to harvest abalone, turban shells, and seaweed. Their lifestyle, living closely with nature for centuries, offers a glimpse into Japan’s rich traditional culture.

In the Ise-Shima area, you can visit ama huts where real ama divers grill fresh seafood in front of you and talk about life and culture in Japan’s fishing villages. Even without a shared language, smiles and gestures make for meaningful interaction. Charcoal-grilled abalone and Ise lobster are unforgettable, and the ama divers’ warm hospitality will make you feel right at home. It’s a unique opportunity to connect with locals beyond ordinary sightseeing.

Discover Japanese Culinary Culture at VISON

Opened in 2021, VISON is a sprawling complex surrounded by nature, home to about 70 shops, restaurants, hotels, and farms—almost like a village of its own. Among its many highlights, the Wa-VISON area stands out as a popular spot among international travelers.

Japanese cuisine, recognized as a UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage, draws global attention for its depth and artistry. At WA-VISON, visit the workshops and specialty shops of makers producing key ingredients like mirin, soy sauce, and vinegar. Guests can observe the production process, sample mirin, and participate in daily miso-making sessions, a hands-on way to experience the richness of Japan’s food culture.

Tour Ise Jingu Shrine and the Districts of Oharai-Machi and Okage Yokocho by Rickshaw

Often regarded as the spiritual heart of Japan, Ise Jingu holds deep significance. Pair your visit with a rickshaw tour through the surrounding streets of Oharai-machi and Okage Yokocho, where the ride evokes the feeling of stepping back into the Edo period.

Rickshaw drivers are not merely drivers—they are local experts and guides. As you ride through the streets, their stories about history, culture, and regional cuisine reveal attractions you might overlook on your own. Take the opportunity to connect with locals and enjoy tasting specialties or shopping at souvenir stores.

Experience Luxury Glamping at Grandome Ise-Kashikojima

Set in the natural beauty of Ise-Shima National Park, Grandome Ise-Kashikojima is a cutting-edge glamping facility in Mie Prefecture. Glamping blends the comforts of a hotel with the excitement of outdoor adventure, letting you enjoy both relaxation and the thrill of nature in one experience.

At Grandome Ise-Kashikojima, dome tents sit amidst the lush nature of Ise-Shima. Guests can enjoy a gourmet BBQ of fresh local seafood and meats around a campfire, then unwind under a star-filled sky. The stay includes generous perks—unlimited ice cream and drinks at the bar—making it ideal for those looking for a unique and memorable experience in Japan beyond standard hotel accommodations.

Try Stand-Up Paddleboarding and Canyoning with Verde Odai Tourism

Odai Town in Mie Prefecture, often called the town with Japan’s purest water, is rich with clear rivers and lush nature. Verde Odai Tourism provides outdoor experiences that allow you to embrace this natural beauty firsthand.

Stand-up paddleboarding (SUP) and canoeing are especially popular, offering a close-up view of the crystal-clear Miyagawa River. The scenery of the surrounding mountains from the water is unforgettable, and instructors ensure that beginners and children can enjoy the experience safely. Other activities include cycling and e-bike tours, as well as guided treks through Osugidani Valley, all providing a deep and immersive encounter with Japan’s stunning natural landscapes.

Hiking the Kumano Kodo Iseji Route: Matsumoto-toge Pass

The Kumano Kodo, recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage site as part of the Sacred Sites and Pilgrimage Routes in the Kii Mountain Range, includes several routes. The Iseji Route in southern Mie Prefecture is particularly popular, linking two of Japan’s most sacred destinations: Ise and the three Kumano grand shrines.

Matsumoto-toge Pass is one of the most recommended hiking spots along the Iseji Route. Easily accessible from the parking area and offering short 1–2 hour courses, it’s perfect for beginners looking to experience the ancient trail. From the summit, the breathtaking Shichiri Mihama coastline comes into view. Combine the hike with visits to nearby World Heritage sites such as Onigajo (The Demon Castle), Shishi-iwa (Lion Rock), and Hana-no-Iwaya Shrine.

Marukinmaru: A Guesthouse with Fishermen

Marukinmaru guesthouse offers hands-on experiences of a fisherman’s life in Mie Prefecture’s abundant seas. You can join a real fishing trip with local fishermen, feed sea bream, or clean and prepare the fish you catch. For a unique twist, some programs let you swim inside the ocean pens used for sea bream farming.

Through this program, you’ll learn about the techniques behind local fishing and the culture rooted in everyday coastal life—offering an authentic look at Japan that you won’t find in ordinary sightseeing. Set against the beautiful waters of Minami-Ise, it’s a chance to meet and connect with the people who make their living from the sea.