Car Camping in Japan · Shrines · Mie
Visiting Ise Jingu by Car: Tips from a Local Family
Ise Jingu in Mie Prefecture is one of the most special shrines in Japan. But it's not just one shrine in one place, and that can be confusing for first-time visitors.
My family visited in late May by car. The night before, we slept in our minivan at RV Park VISON, also in Mie. Here's what it was like and what I think you should know.
What it felt like
Ise Jingu is often called the top shrine in Japan, and when you are there, you understand why. The atmosphere was solemn and majestic.
Two main shrines, about 4 km apart
Ise Jingu has two main shrines:
- Geku (the Outer Shrine)
- Naiku (the Inner Shrine)
They are about 4 km apart. Honestly, I think walking between them would be really tiring. We went by car.
If you don't have a car, there is a bus between the two. According to Mie's official tourism site, the direct bus takes about 10 to 15 minutes.
The traditional way is to visit Geku first, then Naiku.
Basic manners
- Wash your hands first. Use the water basin near the entrance to clean your hands and mouth.
- How to pray: bow twice, clap twice, then bow once more.
- Which side to walk on: keep left at Geku and keep right at Naiku.
- Photos: taking photos is not allowed from the stone steps up to the main sanctuary. Please put your camera away there.
A local tip: the first page of your goshuin book
At many shrines and temples in Japan, you can get a goshuin: a red stamp with handwritten writing, given as a record of your visit. People collect them in a small book called a goshuincho.
Here's something many Japanese people do: they save the first page for Ise Jingu. My own book starts with Ise Jingu. Some people who buy their book at another shrine even leave the first page empty until they can visit Ise.
It's a custom, not a rule, so don't worry if your first page is from somewhere else. But if you're planning a trip to Ise, it's a nice way to start your collection.
Things to know before you go
- Opening hours change by season. It opens at 5 a.m. and closes between 5 p.m. and 7 p.m., depending on the month.
- There are parking lots near both shrines. They can get busy on weekends, holidays, and New Year, so arriving early helps.
- Wear comfortable shoes. Even with a car, there is some walking at each shrine.
A simple plan by car
- Night: Sleep in your car at RV Park VISON (book in advance).
- Morning: Drive to Geku and visit first.
- Next: Drive to Naiku, about 4 km away.
We stayed at VISON the night before our visit, just like this plan.
Quick facts
I checked these in October 2026 using Mie Prefecture's official tourism website and other guides. Please check the latest information before you go.
| Where | Ise City, Mie Prefecture |
|---|---|
| Main shrines | Geku (Outer Shrine) and Naiku (Inner Shrine), about 4 km apart |
| Visiting order | Traditionally Geku first, then Naiku |
| Hours | Jan–Apr & Sep: 5:00–18:00 / May–Aug: 5:00–19:00 / Oct–Dec: 5:00–17:00 |
| Bus between shrines | About 10–15 minutes (direct bus) |
| Parking | Parking lots near both Geku and Naiku |
| Photos | Not allowed from the stone steps up to the main sanctuary |
FAQ
Do I have to visit both shrines?
You don't have to, but the tradition is to visit both, starting with Geku. If you have a car, it's easy to do both in one morning.
Is it OK to visit if I'm not Japanese or not religious?
Yes. Many visitors come from all over the world. Just follow the simple manners above and be respectful.
Summary
Ise Jingu has a solemn, majestic feeling that is worth the trip. Plan for two shrines, go to Geku first, and use a car or the bus between them. Pair it with a night at RV Park VISON for a relaxing trip in Mie.
Nearby, Toba Aquarium is a great stop too.