[Mie] Ise: Guided Geku and Naiku in the Sacred Pilgrimage Order

• This immersive Ise tour is the only guided experience that follows the traditional pilgrimage order—starting at the Outer Shrine (Gekū), dedicated to the deity of daily life, and continuing to the Inner Shrine (Naikū), Japan’s most sacred Shinto site devoted to the sun goddess Amaterasu. Led by a knowledgeable local guide, you'll gain insight into the spiritual meaning, myths, and architectural beauty of Ise Jingu, a place of national reverence for over 2,000 years. After visiting both shrines, guests enjoy a cultural stroll through Oharaimachi, a preserved Edo-period street where pilgrims once relaxed and today’s travelers can sample traditional sweets like Akafuku mochi. For added comfort, an optional upgrade includes a scenic ride on a limited express train from Nagoya, letting you begin your journey in ease. Whether you're seeking spiritual depth, cultural discovery, or a peaceful escape into Japan's timeless traditions, this tour offers an unforgettable and authentic experience.

Nestled in a tranquil grove of towering cryptomeria trees, Toyouke Daijingu—also known as the Outer Shrine or Gekū—is dedicated to Toyouke-Ōmikami, the deity of food, clothing, and shelter. As the divine provider to Amaterasu Ōmikami, the sun goddess enshrined in the Inner Shrine, Toyouke’s presence embodies the sacred harmony between sustenance and spirit. The shrine grounds exude quiet dignity, where each path and structure reflects the Shinto philosophy of coexistence with nature. Like its counterpart, Gekū undergoes the shikinen sengū ritual—being rebuilt every 20 years to preserve spiritual and architectural purity—manifesting the ideal of tokowaka, or eternal renewal. Visiting Gekū first honors the traditional pilgrimage order, allowing guests to engage with the full spiritual rhythm of Ise Jingu.