Mie prefecture is next to Aichi, where I’ve been based for the past 23 years.
I had a negative image of it for the longest time because a few of the towns were not so far away.
Yokkaichi is the prime culprit; it is full of factories and pollution.
But, there are a lot of things to do that are fun if you visit Japan.
It might not be at the top of most lists, but Mie Prefecture is rich in culture and nature.
This magnificent location has much to see and do, from historic shrines and temples to stunning beaches and mountains.
So, here are some top Mie Prefecture activities for you to consider.
What to Do In Mie
In no particular order, here are some places you should check out.
Ise Jingu
Ise Grand Shrine (Ise Jingu) is Mie Prefecture’s most popular destination.
The inner shrine (Naiku) and outer shrine (Kiku) are in Ise (Geku).
Both temples are peaceful due to their gorgeous trees and gardens.
After checking out the shrine, go to Okage-yokocho” (Blessing Alley) nearby on foot.
It has many traditional shops and is popular with Japanese visitors and locals.
Suzuka Circuit
Even non-F1 fans will have heard of this place.
Well, it’s in Mie prefecture.
So, even if it’s not race day, why not visit the Japanese Grand Prix’s Suzuka Circuit?
On non-race days, guests may explore the facilities and drive the course.
The track contains a Japanese motorsports museum.
Toba Aquarium
Toba is the land that time forgot.
And not always in a good way.
The worst ever hotel I stayed in was in Toba.
That’s for another day, as Toba has one big attraction.
The Toba Aquarium!
The aquarium has 1,200 species, the most in Japan.
The Project Exhibition and sea lion and walrus displays are recommended!
Ise-Shima National Park
Swim at Mie Prefecture’s Ise-Shima National Park.
The park resembles a museum.
Locals are proud of their peculiar fishing techniques, such as ama divers, who help manage and protect seaweed beds and other biological resources by following rigorous fishing procedures and catch limits.
For families, you can try the Shima Spain Village theme park.
Check out the Art Museum
Mie Prefectural Art Museum exhibits oil paintings, watercolours, bronze sculptures, and more. You may be startled to see works by Renoir, Monet, and Dali here.
Mie-related painters from the 17th century forward are also included.
Late-19th-century oil paintings exist.
Special exhibits featuring local and international artists are held annually at the museum.
The Mountains
Hike Mie Prefecture’s stunning Suzuka Mountain Range.
The Kameyama Hiking Trail provides stunning views of the surrounding mountains and valleys.
Mount Gozaisho is arguably the most well-known mountain in Mie prefecture.
At 1,212 m, it offers various mountain climbing routes, attracting climbers year-round.
You can take the ropeway and at the top, there is a cafe, toilets, a gift shop, and some walking paths.
After skiing or hiking mountains, unwind at the Yunoyama Hot Spring at the bottom.
Yunoyama Onsen
Yunoyama Onsen’s hot springs have drawn tourists for ages.
It’s a little tricky to get to, being deep in the mountains, but worth the effort as you feel like you’ve gone back in time.
On my last trip, the hotel still had posters up from the 1970s!
The resort is called “Deer Onsen” because the waters cure local wildlife.
Yunoyama is one of the rare hot-spring resorts with radium.
Radium reduces nerve pain and skin damage and rejuvenates your skin.
Go Fishing
Fish in Ago Bay’s abundant marine life.
Recreational and professional fishermen fish for tuna, bonito, and mackerel in the bay.
Oyster rafts in the bay are renowned for pearl farming.
Mikimoto Kokichi initially cultivated pearls in 1893.
He was raised on the Shima Peninsula near Ago Bay.
Visit Nabana no Sato Flower Park
In spring or summer, visit the Nabana no Sato Flower Park in Kuwana, Mie Prefecture.
Over 7 million flowers—tulips, poppies, and sunflowers—grow in this huge park.
Cherry blossoms draw hundreds of thousands of tourists to the park each spring.
With 8 million LED lights and lit sculptures, the park becomes a paradise as lights go out.
And their ‘tunnel of light’ is absolutely amazing.
Restaurants and gift stores make the park an excellent day trip.
What About the food?
Fresh oysters from Mie Prefecture are famous.
Oyster restaurants in Toba provide the city’s famed oysters.
Ise udon and Suzuka soba are additional Mie Prefecture delicacies (buckwheat noodles).
Try this local cuisine when visiting.
Wagonohama [beach]
I love this beautiful beach.
That said, it is a little off the beaten path.
You’ll need a car to get here and the number of spaces is limited.
So, arrive early and enjoy a calm, peaceful sea perfect for the family.
We went snorkelling and enjoyed amazing clear water.
Before you Go
Everyone wants to visit the usual places.
But be a little adventurous; you can see Japan, which most others do not.
Mie Prefecture caters to all interests and is well worth checking out.
