Leading to the Inner Shrine – one of two main shrines making-up the Ise Grand Shrine – the Oharaimachi is an 800 metre stretch of traditional buildings, souvenir shops and restaurants. This pleasant area has been servicing pilgrims and visitors to the shrines for a very long time and many traditions remain to this day.

Approximately halfway along the Oharaimachi, the Okage-yokocho is features reconstructed Edo and Meiji Period buildings. The area is known for its ‘Ise udon’ noodles and ‘akafuku’, a traditional sweet made from ‘mochi’ and red bean paste – a delightful and tasty snack to try as you walk to and from the Inner Shrine.

Most stores open early, from 05:00 onward, and close around 18:00 although times vary a little through the season – closing earlier in winter and later in summer.