Ise, Japan, is a place where spirituality and tradition intertwine with a touch of modern charm. Known throughout Japan as the “City of the Gods,” Ise offers a range of memorable tours that deepen your understanding of its sacred sites, local crafts, and vibrant culture. Among these, the Hands-on Pearl Harvesting Workshop stands out for its unique chance to harvest a pearl from a live oyster, delivering a tangible souvenir and a genuine taste of Ise’s renowned pearling industry. Meanwhile, guided tours of Ise Jingu, Japan’s most revered shrine, allow travelers to step into a sacred space rich with myths and rituals. We’ve handpicked these experiences, blending cultural insight with authentic hands-on activities, so you can choose a tour fitting your interest and pace.
Whether you’re drawn to spiritual sites, local food, or crafting your own jewelry, Ise has something to offer. To help narrow your choices, here’s a quick overview of the best tours you’ll find below, each offering a different way to experience Ise’s rich traditions and scenic beauty.
1. Hands-on Pearl Harvesting Workshop!
At number 1 on our list is the Hands-on Pearl Harvesting Workshop, an engaging experience for anyone curious about Japan’s pearl industry. For just $19 per person, you get to harvest a pearl from live Akoya oysters that grow in a specially maintained aquarium in Ise-Shima. This is not just a demonstration; you actually select your favorite shellfish, carefully extract the pearl, and then customize your jewelry with various metal fittings.
What sets this tour apart is the direct involvement, giving you a real sense of how pearls are cultivated in Japan’s waters. Several reviews mention how memorable and fun it is to pick your own pearl—some even call it “a once-in-a-lifetime experience.” The workshop is ideal for travelers looking for an affordable, interactive activity that leaves you with a unique memento. Plus, it’s a great way to learn about Ise’s rich pearling tradition. The only downside might be the short duration, but for the price, the hands-on experience offers excellent value.
Bottom Line: Perfect for curious travelers and jewelry enthusiasts who want an authentic, affordable souvenir and a story to tell.
2. Ise: Express Tour of Japan’s Most Sacred Shrine
Next, at number 2, is the Express Tour of Japan’s Most Sacred Shrine. This guided experience takes you into the heart of Ise Jingu, specifically the Inner Shrine, Naikū, which is considered the spiritual core of the shrine complex. You can choose from a standard tour, an early morning visit, or a tour with a stop at Oharaimachi—a charming street lined with traditional shops and eateries.
During the tour, your guide explains the architecture, symbolism, and rituals that have been practiced for centuries. Crossing the Uji Bridge into the sacred forest is a highlight, immersing you in the tranquil atmosphere that surrounds the shrine. The tour is a condensed but meaningful way to grasp the spiritual significance of Ise Jingu without the full day commitment. While reviews are not available, the focus on learning about Shinto customs and the shrine’s layout makes it suitable for travelers who want a deep but manageable cultural experience.
Bottom Line: Ideal for visitors who want a focused, informative visit to Ise Jingu and a taste of its spiritual ambiance.
$47 per person
3. Ise: Full-Day Guided Tour of Shrines and Oharaimachi
For around $137, the Full-Day Guided Tour of Shrines and Oharaimachi offers an immersive introduction to Ise’s spiritual and cultural landscape. You start with visits to both Inner and Outer Shrines—the latter being the Toyouke Daijingu—before wandering through the historic Edo-period townscape of Oharaimachi. You’ll explore the Meoto Iwa, the iconic “wedded rocks,” just off the coast, where the sea and sky meet in a stunning display.
This tour stands out for its comprehensive approach—covering the main shrine sites, the local traditions, and the scenic coastal views. The guide’s insights help you understand the significance of rituals like the rebuilding of shrines every 20 years, a practice that keeps the traditions alive. Reviewers appreciate the depth of information and the peaceful, spiritual atmosphere throughout the day. This tour is best for travelers with a full day to spare and a keen interest in both Shinto architecture and local heritage.
Bottom Line: Great for those wanting a detailed, all-encompassing introduction to Ise’s religious and cultural sites.
$137 per person
4. Ise: Guided Bar-Hopping Tour with Food and Drinks
At number 4, we have the Guided Bar-Hopping Tour with Food and Drinks, perfect for nighttime adventurers eager to experience Ise’s vibrant local scene. For $85 per person, you visit a selection of handpicked izakayas and bars, where you’ll enjoy ¥1,000 worth of food and drinks at each stop. The tour offers an authentic taste of Ise’s friendly drinking culture, with plenty of stories and local insights shared by the guide.
This experience is especially suited for travelers who want to relax and socialize after a day of sightseeing, or for those interested in exploring Ise’s culinary scene. While the reviews are not specific, the atmosphere sounds lively and welcoming, with the chance to discover hidden gems off the typical tourist trail. Be prepared for a laid-back, convivial evening that emphasizes local flavors and good company.
Bottom Line: A fun, informal way to wind down and experience Ise’s nightlife, especially if you enjoy trying local drinks and small plates.
$85 per person
5. Ise: Guided Geku and Naiku in the Sacred Pilgrimage Order
Number 5 on our list is the Guided Geku and Naiku in the Sacred Pilgrimage Order. This tour takes you through both the Outer Geku and Inner Naiku shrines, covering the full route of the traditional pilgrimage. Your local guide will share insights into the rituals, symbolism, and history that underpin Ise Jingu, including the fascinating tradition of rebuilding the shrines every 20 years.
Strolling through the historic streets of Oharaimachi, you will also get to sample local treats like Akafuku mochi and miso-glazed dango. The tour emphasizes understanding the spiritual significance while enjoying the lively atmosphere of the town. With no reviews, the value lies in its comprehensive coverage of the shrine complex paired with local culinary experiences.
Bottom Line: Ideal for travelers seeking a thorough, guided exploration of Ise Jingu’s main shrines and local flavor.
$97 per person
6. Ise: Ise Grand Shrine and Okage Yokocho Guided Tour
Finally, the Ise Grand Shrine and Okage Yokocho Guided Tour offers a well-rounded experience. Priced at $154 for about 6 hours, this tour visits the most revered of Japan’s Shinto shrines, along with a serene walk through the Naiku and Geku forests. You’ll also explore Okage Yokocho, a lively street full of traditional crafts, snacks, and local stories.
This tour’s strength is in its balance—covering the sacred and the popular shopping street, and the guide helps interpret the rituals and legends behind the shrine rebuilding tradition. Reviewers praise it as “an insightful and fulfilling experience”, especially for those wanting to see the main highlights in a manageable half-day. It’s suited for travelers interested in cultural heritage paired with accessible shopping and dining.
Bottom Line: Excellent for visitors who want a complete, guided overview of Ise’s religious and cultural highlights in a single day.
$154 per person
How to Choose the Best Tour in Ise
Choosing the right tour depends on your interests, schedule, and what you want to take home. If you’re fascinated by crafting your own jewelry, the Pearl Harvesting Workshop is perfect. For a deep dive into spiritual sites, consider the full-day shrine tour or the guided pilgrimage. Those who want a relaxed evening can try the bar-hopping experience, while travelers pressed for time may prefer the express shrine tour.
Think about your physical activity level—if walking many miles through shrines and streets sounds tiring, opt for shorter, guided options. Booking early is advisable, especially in peak seasons like spring and fall, when Ise’s temples and streets get busy.
In summary, Ise offers a variety of tours that cater to interests from spiritual exploration to hands-on craft experiences. Whether you want to learn about the sacred atmosphere of Ise Jingu, learn about Japan’s pearling tradition, or enjoy local food and drink, the options here make planning your trip easier. For a memorable visit, consider combining a couple of these experiences—early mornings at the shrine, followed by an afternoon of pearl harvesting or local dining. Whatever your style, Ise’s rich traditions and beautiful scenery are waiting. Book early, and enjoy this unique part of Japan to its fullest.