Ise Jingu Travel Guide : A Complete Guide to Highlights, Visiting Order, and Access for Geku & Naiku

As noted above, Ise Jingu centers on Naiku and Geku, and the two deities enshrined there are its principal deities.
Naiku enshrines Amaterasu Omikami, the supreme deity in Japanese mythology and the ancestral deity of the Imperial Family. She is believed to bring blessings such as national peace and stability, strong good fortune and protection from misfortune, and peace of mind.
Because of Amaterasu Omikami’s maternal nature, many visitors also pray for family health and marital harmony.
Meanwhile, Geku enshrines Toyouke Omikami, the deity who provides meals for Amaterasu Omikami. Toyouke Omikami is believed to bring stability in daily life through blessings related to food, clothing, and shelter; protection of industry; and business prosperity.
While many kinds of blessings are associated with both, what matters most is approaching with a quiet heart and a sense of gratitude.

According to traditions rooted in Japanese mythology, Ise Jingu’s origins date back Approx. 2,000 years.
Amaterasu Omikami was originally enshrined within the Imperial Palace (the emperor’s residence), but Emperor Sujin, the 10th emperor, decided she should be enshrined outside the palace.
Princess Yamatohime-no-mikoto then traveled throughout Japan in search of a suitable place. Guided by a divine revelation, she chose a site along the Isuzu River in Ise and built a shrine there.
This is considered the beginning of Ise Jingu.
Over time, from the medieval to early modern periods, Ise-centered devotion spread nationwide.
In particular, during the Edo period (1603–1868), pilgrimages to Ise became such a phenomenon that the saying “At least once in a lifetime, make the pilgrimage to Ise” was born.
From the Meiji period (1868–1912) onward, while also taking on aspects of national religious rites, Ise Jingu continued to serve as a spiritual anchor for the Japanese people and has carried its long history into the present day.

Ise Jingu is known as a cherry blossom spot, making spring a wonderful season to enjoy both shrine visits and hanami at the same time.
From late March to early April, when the blossoms are at their best, Approx. 600 cherry trees bloom in and around the shrine grounds, creating scenery that harmonizes beautifully with the sacred atmosphere.
In particular, the view of rows of blossoms alongside Uji Bridge and the clear flow of the Isuzu River is strikingly beautiful, as if washing your spirit clean.
Another highlight is the variety of cherry trees, including Somei Yoshino, yamazakura, and edohigan.
Around the same time, the seasonal Isuzugawa Sakura Festival is also held, with food stalls and events, and from sunset to 9:00pm, illuminations add a festive glow to the shrine precincts at night.
Cherry blossoms under the lights create a different mood from daytime, letting you savor the scene at an unhurried pace amid the quiet.

In autumn, Ise Jingu is wrapped in a sacred atmosphere and vibrant fall colors.
The best time is typically from late November to early December, when you can enjoy worship and rich seasonal scenery amid maple and ginkgo trees turning color across the grounds.
For example, the red and yellow leaves reflected on the clear Isuzu River look like a painting, and the contrast between the vermilion bridge seen from Kazahinomi-no-miya Bridge and the surrounding colors feels uniquely elegant in this sacred setting.
If you prefer a quieter experience, the area around Magatama Pond at Geku is especially recommended for its calm, refined mood.
With the crisp air, the scenery tends to photograph well, and you can fully appreciate the feeling of autumn in the fallen leaves along the paths and the ancient trees.

The enshrined deity of Kotai Jingu (Main Sanctuary) is Amaterasu Omikami, the supreme deity in Japanese mythology and the ancestral deity of the Imperial Family.
Since ancient times, it has been closely connected to the Imperial Family and the court, and has been revered as the heart of national rites.
Also regarded as the ancestral deity of the Japanese people, it is associated with a wide range of blessings, including national peace and stability, health and longevity, industrial development, and strong good fortune and protection from misfortune.
Its sacred object is the Yata no Kagami, one of the Three Sacred Treasures, believed to contain Amaterasu Omikami’s divine spirit.
What makes Kotai Jingu so compelling is the solemnity of the place itself.
A path continues through dense forest, and the blend of nature and silence naturally centers the mind. The unadorned Shinmei-zukuri architecture further emphasizes the purity of the sacred grounds. Standing there, you’ll likely feel your posture straighten.

Aramatsuri-no-miya is the first and most prestigious of Naiku’s subsidiary shrines, enshrining the Aramitama (a divine spirit) of Amaterasu Omikami.
A subsidiary shrine is considered second in importance to the main sanctuary. Naiku has 10 subsidiary shrines and Geku has 4; the highest-ranked among them is called the first subsidiary shrine.
Aramatsuri-no-miya has very old origins and is one of the important shrines served in ceremonies immediately after the main sanctuary.
The Aramitama is believed to embody dynamic power and energy, granting strength to break through the status quo and take on new challenges.
The area has a distinctive atmosphere that combines silence and tension, and the slightly larger shrine building compared with other subsidiary shrines can feel especially powerful.

Kazahinomi-no-miya is a subsidiary shrine of Naiku that enshrines Shinatsuhiko-no-mikoto and Shinatobe-no-mikoto.
These deities govern wind and rain and are believed to bring blessings such as protection from maritime disasters, travel safety, and prayers for good harvests.
The shrine’s origins are old. It was originally called Kaze Shrine, but it was elevated to a subsidiary shrine in 1293 in recognition of its divine protection—said to have raised sacred winds to defend Japan during the Mongol invasions (1274 and 1281).
Since then, it has remained an important site for Naiku’s rites.
Located not far from the main sanctuary, its quiet grounds surrounded by towering old trees are especially memorable.

Uji Bridge is a traditional wooden bridge at the entrance to the Naiku approach, spanning the Isuzu River. It measures Approx. 101.8 m (334 ft) long and Approx. 8.42 m (28 ft) wide.
Often described as a bridge connecting the everyday world and the sacred world, it’s hard not to feel refreshed as you look toward the beautiful great torii gate ahead.
Crossing Uji Bridge marks the beginning of a Naiku visit, gently preparing visitors’ minds as they draw closer to the sacred precincts.
The bridge’s dignified design is another highlight, from the vermilion railings adorned with traditional giboshi finials to the 39 zelkova pillars chosen for their strength in water.

Flowing through Ise City, the Isuzu River rises from Mount Kamiji and Mount Shimaji, runs through the Naiku area, and eventually empties into Ise Bay, stretching Approx. 20 km in total.
Also known as Mimosuso-gawa, it’s said to be where Yamatohime-no-mikoto purified the hem of her robes.
Closely tied to the sacred grounds through sites like Uji Bridge and the Mitarashi area, the river’s clear water itself brings visitors a sense of calm and healing.
With the sound of flowing water blending with the forest’s stillness, the Isuzu River is a symbolic landscape of the Naiku area’s serenity, celebrated in many waka poems.

The enshrined deity of Toyouke Daijingu (Main Sanctuary) is Toyouke Omikami, who governs protection of food, clothing, shelter, and industry, and is especially known as the deity of food (Miketsukami).
Approx. 1,500 years ago, Toyouke Omikami was invited to Ise from Tanba Province (present-day Kyoto) following a revelation from Amaterasu Omikami.
Long worshiped as a deity who supports regional prosperity and a plentiful daily life, Toyouke Omikami is associated with blessings ranging from abundant harvests and business prosperity to safety in everyday life.
Even today, the deity remains deeply revered and is a central presence at Ise Jingu.
Surrounded by sacred forest and greenery, the dignified shrine buildings standing in orderly silence are a key part of Toyouke Omikami’s appeal.
The area carries a unique atmosphere tied to everyday prayers, bringing visitors a sense of peace and comfort.

Taka-no-miya is Geku’s first and most prestigious subsidiary shrine, enshrining Toyouke Omikami’s Aramitama.
Founded around the same time as Geku, it is treated as especially significant; for example, among the subsidiary shrines, only Taka-no-miya is recorded in ancient legal and ceremonial texts such as the Toyuke-gu Gishikicho and Engishiki Jinmyocho.
Because it is situated high on Mount Hio, it was known as “Taka-miya” until the Meiji period.
The Aramitama is believed to have an active nature, bringing blessings such as success in new challenges and support in making decisions, which is why it’s popular as a power spot for personal wishes.
The biggest feature of Taka-no-miya is the approach leading up 98 stone steps to the front of the shrine.
The wind and stillness you feel at the top, along with the sacred space before you, makes the visit especially memorable.
* If climbing stairs is difficult, you can worship from the distant worship area before the steps.

Tsuchi-no-miya is a subsidiary shrine of Geku that enshrines Otsuchi-no-mioya-no-kami.
Originally the guardian deity of Yamada-hara (present-day Ise City), it was incorporated into the sacred precincts after Geku was established, and in the Heian period (794–1185) it was elevated to a subsidiary shrine as a guardian deity for the Miyagawa river embankment.
Still closely tied to Geku’s ancient ritual traditions, it is believed to bring blessings such as peace and stability of the land, protection of embankments and rivers from flooding, and regional stability.
Tsuchi-no-miya is notable as the only subsidiary shrine whose sanctuary faces east.
It is located in a cedar grove on the west side, reached by crossing the turtle-shaped stone bridge over Geku’s pond. In this area, sacred traditions are carefully preserved, and the region’s history and faith remain strongly present.
Its calm presence offers a sense of the Japanese sensibility of living alongside nature.

Kaze-no-miya is a subsidiary shrine of Geku that enshrines Shinatsuhiko-no-mikoto and Shinatobe-no-mikoto.
These two deities govern wind and rain and are believed to prevent weather-related disasters that can harm crops, while also bringing blessings for safe voyages and national peace and stability.
Originally called Kaze Shrine, it was elevated to a subsidiary shrine in 1293 due to its divine power—together with Kazahinomi-no-miya—said to have raised sacred winds to defend Japan during the Mongol invasions (1274 and 1281).
Since then, it has been part of Geku’s ritual system and closely connected to rites for Kazahinohi.
This small shrine, quietly nestled in a cedar forest, reflects the traditional Japanese value of revering the power of nature and is a fitting place to offer prayers in a calm moment during a Geku visit.

Sengukan, located by Magatama Pond at Geku, is a museum that clearly explains the meaning and history of Ise Jingu’s Shikinen Sengu (periodic rebuilding and relocation of the shrine).
Divided into multiple exhibit areas, it systematically introduces the purpose of the Sengu, shrine-building techniques, and the precision of traditional craftsmanship through diagrams, models, and video.
The layout makes it easy for general visitors to understand why the shrines are rebuilt every 20 years, helping you feel closer to the depth of Ise Jingu.
One standout is a full-scale replica of the Geku main sanctuary building.
Seeing it at near-life size lets you appreciate the structural beauty of Yuiitsu Shinmei-zukuri—details you normally can’t view up close.
There are also compelling displays of tools, garments, and sacred treasures used in rituals and craftsmanship.

Temizu is an important practice to purify the body and mind and show respect to the deities.
At the temizuya, please follow this order:

As with other shrines, at Ise Jingu you pray using the “two bows, two claps, one bow” method.
Be mindful of your behavior in this sacred place, and offer your prayers quietly with gratitude and appreciation.

Kannamesai is one of Ise Jingu’s most important festivals and is known for its especially old and prestigious history.
Newly harvested grain (new rice) and various blessings from the sea and mountains are offered to Amaterasu Omikami as an expression of gratitude to nature and for abundant harvests.
Each year, it is traditionally held from October 15 to October 17, in the order of Geku first, then Naiku.
Centered on the Yukioomike rite—where priests offer sacred food with purified hearts and movements—norito prayers are recited in accordance with formal ritual etiquette.
The main part of the ceremony is not open to the public, but you may be able to observe during visiting hours (5:00am–5:00pm), when many visitors gather along the approaches filled with a tense, quiet atmosphere.
Its appeal lies in experiencing, up close, the deep connection between the Japanese people and rice cultivation, and gratitude for the new harvest.

Kagurasai is a traditional festival that expresses gratitude for divine blessings and prays for the peace and prosperity of the people.
Held twice each year—in spring (late April to early May) and fall (mid-September to early October)—its beautiful scenes, set against fresh greenery or an autumn sky, captivate many visitors like an ancient picture scroll come to life.
During the festival, you can enjoy performances such as maidens and dancers performing to bugaku court music passed down since the Heian period, as well as offerings like Noh recitations and dance-hayashi presented by distinguished families from around Japan.
In addition, tea rooms and gardens that are normally closed to the public are opened, making it a chance to fully experience Japan’s classic culture and refinement in a sacred atmosphere.
Despite its formal nature, it feels approachable for the public, and you can observe freely from the special stage set up in the Naiku shrine garden.

Kangetsukai is an elegant event held on the night of the mid-autumn full moon (early October, considered the most beautiful moon of the year).
It traces its origins to the “Kangetsu Utakai,” which began in 1898 based on the Reizei-style etiquette passed down by Chief Priest Reizei Tamemoto.
On the day, Magatama Pond at Geku becomes the offering stage. After outstanding tanka and haiku gathered from across Japan are read aloud by shrine musicians in the traditional manner, gagaku ensemble music and bugaku dance are performed.
Live music, moonlight, and the quiet of the sacred grounds blend together, offering participants and spectators a mysterious moment that feels removed from everyday life.
With the nighttime scenery around the stage—light reflected on the pond and the feeling of autumn—layered on top, the event’s appeal lies in savoring the depth of culture and tradition with an elevated sense of elegance. *Open to the public; free to observe

Shikinen Sengu is Japan’s largest festival, held at Ise Jingu every 20 years.
It involves rebuilding all shrine buildings and sacred treasures and moving the deity to the new shrine. It has continued for over 1,300 years, from the first in 690 to the 62nd in 2013.
Some 800 types and 1,600 items of sacred garments and ritual treasures are newly made, with craftspeople carrying on ancient techniques as they create them.
More than simply renewing architecture, it represents the renewal of sacredness and the passing down of faith, and it also holds social significance as a prayer for national prosperity and the stability of the Imperial Family.
Preparations take over eight years, and along the way, various festivals and traditional events such as Yamaguchi-sai and Mifunashiro-sai are held in stages, building momentum toward the main event.
The next, the 63rd, is scheduled for 2033.

Higoto Asayu Omikesai is a festival in which sacred meals (mike) are offered to the deities twice each day—morning and evening—at Naiku, Geku, and subsidiary shrines.
It is an important rite that has continued without a single day missed for over 1,500 years since Geku was established, offering daily gratitude to the deities while praying, “May the nation be at peace; may the people be at peace.”
In the early morning, priests who have purified themselves by keeping vigil since the night before prepare the offerings at Imibiya-den, using pure water from within the sacred precincts.
At the Omike-den, rice, sake, and seasonal blessings from the sea and mountains and vegetables are offered, and a priest recites norito prayers and performs a ritual with eight bows.
It is generally not open to the public, but near the North Gate at Geku, you may be able to observe scenes such as the offerings being carried to the Omike-den.

The main sanctuaries have long been places to offer gratitude to Amaterasu Omikami. While personal requests aren’t prohibited, it is considered proper etiquette to do so elsewhere.
At Ise Jingu, there is a concept known as shihei kindan, meaning individuals other than the emperor should refrain from directly offering goods or money to the deities.
There is also no offering box at the main sanctuaries, as throwing coins could be seen as defiling the sacred grounds.
For these reasons, at the main sanctuaries, worship quietly with gratitude as your focus, and save personal requests for subsidiary shrines (such as Aramatsuri-no-miya at Naiku or Taka-no-miya at Geku).

Ise Jingu has never had omikuji fortune slips.
As the saying goes, “If you can make the pilgrimage to Ise, you already have great fortune,” the main reason is that the act of visiting itself is considered a sign of great luck and divine protection.
Also, at Ise Jingu—where Amaterasu Omikami, the ancestral deity of the Japanese people, is enshrined—omikuji, which judge personal fortune as good or bad and can make people overly happy or upset, differs from the shrine’s original view of faith and purpose of worship.
Moreover, when Ise Jingu was founded, the practice of omikuji did not yet exist in Japan, and the absence of omikuji also reflects an emphasis on preserving ancient rituals, etiquette, and sacredness.

There’s a saying that you shouldn’t visit Ise Jingu as a married couple or as a couple.
There are various theories, but two are especially well known.
The first says that Amaterasu Omikami is a female deity who becomes jealous of couples’ happiness and causes them to break up.
The second says that in the Edo period, there was an entertainment district called Furuichi near Ise Jingu, and the rumor was used as an excuse to make it easier for men who came to worship to go out and have fun.
However, both are merely folk stories, with no official basis or credibility.
Rather, if you worship with proper etiquette, you can pray for marital harmony and good relationships, so it’s safe to regard it as just a superstition.

This shrine enshrines Sarutahiko Okami, a deity said to appear at the start of things and guide everything in a good direction.
The Kojiki and Nihon Shoki also describe him as having “opened the way and guided the heavenly grandchild in the beginning of the land,” and the shrine’s ema votive plaques feature Sarutahiko Shrine’s unique “MICHIBIKI no Mai” dance, which is said to guide wishes toward a good outcome.
It also has a deep connection to Ise Jingu: Ota-no-mikoto, a descendant of Sarutahiko Okami, recommended the upper reaches of the Isuzu River as the site for Ise Jingu’s Naiku.

This shrine stands at the foot of Mount Tado, long revered as a sacred mountain.
The shrine buildings were established in the latter half of the 5th century, during the reign of Emperor Yuryaku.
The main sanctuary enshrines Amatsuhikone-no-mikoto, the third son of Amaterasu Omikami, the enshrined deity of Ise Jingu, and the subsidiary sanctuary enshrines Ame-no-Mahitotsu-no-mikoto, a grandchild deity.
Because of this, it has deep ties to Ise Jingu, and a folk song says, “If you visit Ise, visit Tado too—without Tado, it’s only half a pilgrimage,” reflecting the custom of praying at Tado Taisha when making the Ise pilgrimage.

This shrine enshrines Sarutahiko Okami and is believed to bring blessings for matchmaking, marital harmony, and traffic safety.
Since ancient times, there has been a custom called Hama-sangu, in which people perform misogi purification in the seawater at Futamiura before visiting Ise Jingu, cleansing body and mind by bathing in the salt water.
Today, even without entering the sea, it is said that receiving the Mukushio-barai purification at the shrine can serve as a substitute for misogi.
An ideal plan is to visit Futami Okitama Shrine first, then head to the Jingu with a purified spirit.

Located within Ise-Shima National Park, NEMU RESORT is a multi-facility resort where you can enjoy a stay that’s active at times and deeply relaxing at others, surrounded by the sea and lush greenery.
Across its expansive grounds, the resort offers a wide range of activities, including NEMU GOLF CLUB for refreshing seaside golf, as well as a garden pool and marine cruises.

Quietly set on a hillside overlooking Ago Bay, Amanemu is the first property within the global luxury hotel brand Aman to feature its own hot springs.
All 24 suites and 8 villas have hot spring baths indoors, so you can enjoy onsen without leaving your room.

A luxury resort hotel located within VISON, one of Japan’s largest commercial complexes.
You can choose from three lodging styles: six standalone villas, 155 rooms in the hotel building across nine room types, or Hatago VISON with 40 rooms across four buildings.