Enjoy breathtaking views of Ago Bay from ‘Yokoyama Observatory’, and we’ll recommend popular hiking trails in Ise-Shima National Park.

In addition to popular attractions like Ise Shrine and Meotoiwa Rocks, Ise-Shima has many other fascinating sights, particularly on Shima side. Today, we’ll take all of you who love experiencing the beautiful nature of Japan on a hiking trip along a trail with stunning viewpoints that offers panoramic vistas of Ise-Shima National Park and Ago Bay. We’ll also recommend some must-try shops in the Shima area.

Index

• 1. From Ugata Station to Yokoyama observation deck! let’s go hiking amidst the lush nature of Shima
• 2. Panoramic Views of Ise-Shima National Park and Ago Bay from the Yokoyama Observatory
• 3. Check out sake shops and other interesting local restaurants around Ugata Station.
• 4. Easy Access to Ise-Shima via Kintetsu Train!

1.From Ugata Station to Yokoyama observation deck! let’s go hiking amidst the lush nature of Shima

For hiking enthusiasts, experiencing Japan’s beautiful natural scenery during a hike is a must, wouldn’t you agree?

The Yokoyama hiking trail in Ise-Shima National Park is a short route perfect for wealthy nature lovers and those who appreciate mountain and sea views. As you ascend the shaded trails to the ridge of Mount Yokoyama, you’ll discover even more of Ise-Shima’s abundant natural beauty.
While not for hardcore hikers, it offers a complete experience such as a short hike, a visit to an observatory, and a close encounter with the Ise-Shima region’s nature. It’s ideal for those who want a light hike during their Japan trip or want to enjoy beautiful natural scenery without spending a full day climbing.

For this hiking plan, we recommend the hiking course by using ‘Tekuteku Map’ that Kintetsu railways approved! A map showing a nature trail starting from Ugata Station to the Yokoyama Observatory, one of the most beautiful viewpoints of Ago Bay. It’s an unmissable view!

Download the map here >> https://www.kintetsu.co.jp/foreign/assets/planyourtrip/images/hiking_course_05.pdf

The trail is also very convenient, with signposts, information centers, restrooms, and beverage stations along the way. You’ll enjoy a full immersion in nature on a relatively easy trail with well-maintained stairs. It’s perfect for both beginner hikers and those who want to experience Japanese nature with a relaxed feel.

“Teku-Teku Map” maps of other areas are also available for download!

Recommended sightseeing spots along the Kintetsu Line | Kintetsu Railway Co.,Ltd.

Furthermore, if you take Kintetsu Limited Express train from Nagoya, it takes approximately 2 hours and 10 minutes. If you come from Kyoto, it takes about 3 hours. Alternatively, if you start from Osaka Namba Station, it will take approximately 1 hour and 45 minutes to 2 hours to reach Ise-Shima, making it very convenient to travel from major cities.

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2. Panoramic Views of Ise-Shima National Park and Ago Bay from the Yokoyama Observatory

Ise-Shima National Park is well-known for its iconic Ise Shrine, but the Shima side of the park also features another captivating attraction like, Ago Bay, which is located about 25 kilometers southeast of Ise City. Ago Bay is renowned for its complex coastline and boasts numerous small islands.

source : https://www.kintetsu.co.jp/foreign/english/sightseeing/mie/spot14.html

Nestled along the southern coast of Shima Peninsula, Ago Bay is celebrated for its stunning scenery, characterized by a winding ria coastline and over 60 small and large islands.

source : shutterstock_2409811493

Additionally, Ago Bay is historically significant as it is the first in the world to successfully cultivate pearls, which was pioneered by Mikimoto Kokichi in 1893. Since then, the bay has become home to many pearl farms, and the islands’ intricate landscape has made Ago Bay a breathtaking view that is never the same as others.

source : shutterstock_350130884

One of the best ways to admire Ago Bay is from Yokoyama Observatory, a must-see tourist attraction. In addition to hiking, this point offers a panoramic view of Ise-Shima National Park, Ago Bay, and the surrounding islands.

The natural beauty of this area is truly impressive. If you love photography or appreciate the wonders of Japanese nature, be sure to visit the Yokoyama Observatory to refresh your senses!

source : https://www.kintetsu.co.jp/foreign/english/sightseeing/mie/spot14.html

source: https://www.kintetsu.co.jp/foreign/english/sightseeing/mie/spot14.html

Information about Yokoyama Observatory:

Address:

• Yokoyama Observatory, 875-20 Agocho Ugata, Shima, Mie 517-0501, Japan

Tel.:

• +81 599-44-0567

Opening Hours:

• Open 24 hours

How to get there:

• From Nagoya: Take Kintetsu Limited Express from Kintetsu-Nagoya Station around 2 hours and 10 minutes, and you will arrive at Ugata Station.
• From Kyoto: Take Kintetsu Limited Express from Kintetsu-Kyoto Station for 3 hours, then get off at Ugata Station.
• From Osaka: Take Kintetsu Limited Express from Osaka Namba Station for 1 hour and 45 minutes to 2 hours to reach Ugata Station.
• From Ugata Station, you can choose to take a taxi for about 10 minutes to Yokoyama Observatory, or you can choose to hike along Tekuteku map, which takes about 40 minutes to reach Yokoyama Observatory as well.

Map

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3. Check out sake shops and other interesting local restaurants around Ugata Station.

When visiting this area, you shouldn’t miss trying the delicious food and famous drinks. Today, we’re recommending three places to enjoy yourself or buy souvenirs.

• KANPAI ISESHIMA

KANPAI ISESHIMA (カンパイ伊勢志摩) is a local Japan sake shop in Shima that offers a wide variety of famous sakes. The atmosphere is warm and friendly, suitable for both regular sake drinkers and those wanting to try it for the first time. The shop has sake experts who can recommend flavors to suit individual preferences.

They also offer tasting sets of three different sakes and after tasting each option, you can choose your favorite one to take home! The shop is located not far from Shima-Yokoyama Station (about a 5-minute walk) or Ugata Station (about a 3-minute drive), making it a popular stop for food and drink lovers visiting Ise-Shima area.

Website for more information:

https://www.kanko-shima.com/purpose/11617/
https://www.iseshima-kanko.jp/en/en-gourmet/121019

• SHIMA BREWERY

Craft Beer Stand SHIMA, also known as SHIMA BREWERY (志摩醸造) is a craft brewery in Shima located inside Ugata Station. Its concept is to create craft beers that reflect the unique character of Ise-Shima. Operated by Kintetsu Retailing Group, it’s the company’s second brewery after Yamato Brewery in Nara. The brewery features a Taproom where customers can enjoy freshly brewed beers while watching the brewing process up close.

The highlight is the development of unique beer blends inspired by the natural beauty and cultural charm of Shima. The shop is designed to be a convenient stop for tourists and attracts customers by offering draft, canned, and bottled beers, sharing the flavors of Shima with people from other regions.

Website for more information:

https://www.kankomie.or.jp/report/2023
https://brewery-kintetsu.com/shima-brewery/
https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61569668651831

• Maruyoshi Shoten

Maruyoshi Shoten (丸義商店) is known for selling fresh seafood and is popular with both locals and tourists. The shop sources its ingredients from the freshest waters of Ise-Shima, especially seafood from Nakiri Fishing Port, such as Ise lobster, seasonal fish, and various processed fish products.

The shop’s highlights are the freshness and quality of its ingredients, plus it offers nationwide delivery in Japan. In addition, on Saturdays, they host a tuna cutting show which attracts many tourists. Located just a few minutes from Ugata Station, the shop is a popular stop for those visiting the Ise-Shima area and wanting to sample local seafood.

Website for more information:

https://en.kanko-shima.com/purpose/1892/

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4. Easy Access to Ise-Shima via Kintetsu Train!

If you’re planning a trip to Ise-Shima, we highly recommend taking Kintetsu Railway, which conveniently connects Osaka, Nagoya, Kyoto, and Ise-Shima area! In this guide, we will introduce two types of trains that are both comfortable and a point of pride for Kintetsu Railway!

• The Sightseeing Limited Express “Shimakaze”

The Sightseeing Limited Express “Shimakaze” connects Ise-Shima with several major cities. Its special features include luxurious design and interior decor, scenic views from the large front windows of the observation carriage, and delicious meals in the onboard cafe of the double-decker train. Of course, all seats are spaced 125 centimeters apart and equipped with massage seats for ultimate comfort. There are also Salon Seats for larger groups and private rooms (at an additional cost) for those seeking privacy.

For more information about Shimakaze, please check out this article>>
Travel in luxury with Kintetsu Limited Express Trains: Shimakaze and Hinotori

• The Limited Express “Ise-Shima Liner”

Next up is “Ise-Shima Liner,” a train connecting Osaka, Kyoto, Nagoya, and Ise-Shima. In addition to Standard seats, there are Deluxe seats (3 seats per row) offering spacious seating and reclining backrests. There are also salon seats for four people and twin seats for two, ideal for group travel, providing added comfort with large tables for luggage storage and power outlets. Plus, you can enjoy beautiful views from the large windows. However, advance seat reservations are required for all these trains.

However, these trains require advance seat reservations. For anyone planning a trip to Ise-Shima and Kansai, the most cost-effective and comfortable way to travel is to use an unlimited ride pass “Kintetsu Rail Pass”

If you are interested, you can read more here >>
How to use the digital ticket | Unlimited Ride Tickets | Kintetsu Railway Co.,Ltd.

✨ 🫧 ✨ 🫧

Ise-Shima area is a fantastic destination where you can enjoy a variety of attractions all in one trip! From hiking to the stunning views at the Yokoyama observatory, to the lush nature of Ago Bay and a selection of unique shops. It’s also conveniently accessible via Kintetsu Limited Express trains, whether you are traveling from Nagoya, Kyoto, or Osaka. This makes it an ideal spot for day trips and weekend getaways.

So, if you have the opportunity, we highly recommend taking Kintetsu train to fully experience the charm of Ise-Shima!

Source :
Visit Mie in Japan, Once in Your Lifetime
Visit Iseshima ーOfficial website of the “Visit Iseshima” Bureau
Kintetsu Railway Co.,Ltd.

Kintetsu Railway Official Website

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