Kintetsu Railway English

16/08/2026

Ise-Shima: Experience the excitement of discovering and collecting "miracle pearls" gems of unparalleled color, shape, and brilliance all in one place.
Pearls are precious gems that Japan takes pride in. But did you know Ise-Shima in Mie Prefecture is the birthplace of the world's first cultured pearls?
Ise-Shima's "Akoya Pearls" are recognized worldwide thanks to the unique combination of Ako Bay environment, skilled craftsmanship, and the oysters' life cycle.
At "Shinju no Sato," you can extract pearls from oysters by hand! This pearl cultivation business offers the opportunity to collect pearls from real Akoya oysters.
You can choose an oyster to extract a pearl from, carefully separating it and even experience the process of polishing the pearl by hand. Witness the pearl's transformation from a soft glow to its natural luster firsthand—it's a truly invaluable experience!
Additionally, you can have the pearls you've collected turned into jewelry right on-site. Create a unique, one-of-a-kind piece just for yourself!
In this birthplace of pearl cultivation, everyone can learn about the roots of pearls and experience the hands-on process of making them.
This is a unique travel experience you can only find in Ise-Shima!
📍 How to get there:
- From Osaka-Namba: Take Kintetsu train from Osaka-Namba Station to Kashikojima Station (approximately 2 hours and 35 minutes), then take a 30-minute drive.
- From Nagoya: Take Kintetsu train from Kintetsu-Nagoya Station to Kashikojima Station (approximately 2 hours and 10 minutes), then take a 30-minute drive.
Save this post so you don’t forget! And let's experience the origins of the world's first cultured pearls, beautiful gems that bring pride to Japan and are famous worldwide!

11/08/2026

Ise-Shima: An incredible onsen ryokan with a design that invites exploration, reminiscent of a maze in Japanese style.
At 'Kashikojima Hojoen' onsen ryokan in Ise-Shima, the breathtaking views of Ago Bay greet you as soon as you enter. The lobby immerses you in nature’s beauty, instantly captivating your senses.
Inside, the atrium garden features a stunning waterfall cascading from the third floor to the first, creating an enchanting, ethereal atmosphere. A charming traditional tea room transports you to a Japanese garden, allowing you to escape from the everyday hustle for a moment of peace.
As you navigate the unique, winding layout, stone bridges evoke the feeling of wandering through an onsen town; every detail, from the furniture to the art, has been thoughtfully curated. The harmonious blend of views and intricate designs draws you in, encouraging you to savor the experience rather than rush past it.
Looking out the window, you’ll find tranquility in the serene beauty of Ago Bay. Embracing two contrasting vibes at once enriches your stay at Kashikojima Hojoen.
Immerse yourself in the natural onsen from its original hot spring source while relishing those spectacular vistas, then indulge in a kaiseki meal crafted with the freshest local ingredients from Ise-Shima. This experience offers a truly unforgettable getaway.
If you seek a ryokan that engages all five senses, be sure to save this post for inspiration!
📍How to get there:
Kashikojima Hojoen
- From Osaka Namba: Take Kintetsu train from Osaka-Namba Station to Kashikojima Station (2 hours 35 minutes), then walk for about 10 minutes.
- From Nagoya: Take Kintetsu train from Nagoya Station to Kintetsu-Nagoya Station to Kashikojima Station (2 hours 10 minutes), then walk for about 10 minutes.

11/08/2026

🚈 Welcome to Kintetsu Railway Monthly News in July 2026!
This month, explore the enchanting region of Ise, featuring the sacred Ise Jingu and Futami Okitama Shrine. Discover historic streets like Oharaimachi, Okage Yokocho, and more 🥰
And of course, all easily accessible via Kintetsu Railway!

Welcome to Kintetsu Railway Monthly News in July 2026 Discover Ise Jingu, charming historic streets, local food, and coffee via Kintetsu Railway.

06/08/2026

In addition to popular attractions like Ise Shrine and Meotoiwa Rocks, Ise-Shima boasts many other fascinating sights, especially on Shima side.
Today, we invite everyone who loves experiencing Japan's beautiful nature to join us on a hiking trip along a trail that offers stunning viewpoints of Ise-Shima National Park and Ago Bay, specifically at Yokoyama Observatory.
So, don't wait any longer... let's go!

Join us for a hike with stunning views of Ise-Shima National Park and Ago Bay, including Yokoyama Observatory, plus recommended shops!

31/07/2026

Ise-Shima: Indulge in world-class coffee amidst a historic old town.
Kawasaki district grew from the Edo period as a trading hub heavily reliant on waterways. Today, those buildings have been transformed into cafes and shops lining the entire area.
In Kawasaki, we recommend a coffee shop selected to serve at the welcoming program for spouses of world leaders attending the Ise-Shima Summit, and one that has also received international awards.
"Nakamura Coffee" roasts its own beans daily, with the intention of "bringing happiness to everyone through just one cup of coffee." The shop meticulously selects its beans and ensures the quality of every cup served! The owner is a professional coffee roaster. It has also won awards in competitions both domestically in Japan and internationally.
The shop offers special menu items found only here, such as "Okage Blend," named after Okage Yokocho district, and "Ise-Shima Summit Blend," a coffee served to the spouses of world leaders attending Ise-Shima Summit. There are also homemade sweets specially created to pair with the coffee.
In particular, the shop's chocolate is meticulously crafted, from the selection of cocoa beans to roasting and production.
The pairing of world-class roasted coffee with exquisitely crafted chocolate is a truly perfect culinary experience.
After relaxing with your favorite coffee, take a stroll through Kawasaki's old town to fully immerse yourself in the atmosphere and charm of its history.
📍How to get there:
From Osaka Namba: Take Kintetsu train from Osaka-Namba Station to Iseshi Station (1 hour 50 minutes), then walk for about 20 minutes.
From Nagoya: Take Kintetsu train from from Kintetsu-Nagoya Station to Iseshi Station (1 hour 20 minutes), then walk for about 20 minutes.
Come and enjoy a special cup of coffee amidst the historic old town. And to make sure you don't forget this special moment at a cafe in Ise, be sure to save this post and come back to it again!

27/07/2026

Ise-Shima: Enjoy Local Cuisine from Japan's Fresh Fish Hub
Kawasaki district in Ise is full of history and has a charming atmosphere that reminds you of the Meiji era. This area was known as "Kitchen of Ise" because of the lively trade in fresh fish that was brought in by ships from Ise-Shima.
One dish that you must try is "Kamaboko" a traditional Japanese food made from finely ground white fish. It is shaped and then either steamed or grilled to help it last longer. Kamaboko has been a part of Japanese culinary culture for a long time and is also seen as a lucky gift. Today, it is still popular as a healthy option high in protein.
"Wakamatsuya" one of the area's oldest shops, started in 1905 during Meiji era. This shop is famous for using traditional methods to make kamaboko, keeping the authentic taste of fresh fish alive for over a century.
Wakamatsuya also offers a kamaboko-making workshop where you can learn to make kamaboko yourself. You will get to experience this important technique firsthand. Experts will guide you through the process, teaching you everything from the basics to step-by-step instructions.
In the workshop, you will make two types of kamaboko. The first is "Grilled Kamaboko," which involves skewering minced fish and grilling it fresh. The second is "Flat Kamaboko," where the minced fish is spread onto a wooden board, shaped into a semi-circle, and steamed.
Once you finish making your creations, you can enjoy your freshly made kamaboko right away. This workshop is a fun experience not to be missed, offering both great flavors and a memorable way to learn about Ise-Shima's food culture.
📍How to get there:
・Wakamatsuya Kawasaki Branch (Main Branch)
From Osaka Namba: Take the Kintetsu train from Osaka-Namba Station to Iseshi Station (1 hour 50 minutes), then walk for about 9 minutes.
From Nagoya: Take the Kintetsu train from Kintetsu-Nagoya Station to Iseshi Station (1 hour 20 minutes), then walk for about 9 minutes.

Anyone wanting to try making kamaboko to create lasting memories during their Ise trip should definitely consider this! Don't forget to save this post and start planning!

24/07/2026

Ise-Shima: Discover and immerse yourself in the art and history of Japan in this sacred land.
It is often said that "a pilgrimage to Ise Grand Shrine should begin at Futami" making Futami a crucial starting point for pilgrims.
Within the Futami Okitama Jinja, where the misogi ceremony, a purification ritual of body and mind by the sea before entering the shrine, takes place, lies the "Umikaze Gallery"
The view from Umikaze Gallery is breathtaking, offering a panoramic vista of Ise Bay. This makes it a popular spot for both pilgrims and tourists to take in the stunning scenery.
The café features drinks made from local Ise ingredients, including an Ise tea latte, alongside other beverages that also highlight locally sourced components. It is highly recommended to stop by after you visit the shrine to enjoy a refreshing drink. Alternatively, you can relax with tea or coffee inside the shop.
Additionally, the store showcases and sells custom-made artwork from various artists, such as Japanese-style paintings, ukiyo-e woodblock prints, and various lucky items. This allows visitors to appreciate the charm of Japanese art while unwinding in a tranquil setting.
This special location offers visitors the chance to experience the sacred atmosphere of the shrine grounds, enjoy beautiful views, and savor drinks made from local ingredients, providing a unique relaxation experience that can only be found here!
📍How to get there:
From Osaka Namba: Take Kintetsu train from Osaka-Namba Station to Toba Station (2 hours), then take a bus to Meoto-iwa Higashiguchi bus stop (12 minutes).
From Nagoya: Take Kintetsu train from Kintetsu-Nagoya Station to Toba Station (1 hour 40 minutes), take a bus to Meoto-iwa Higashiguchi bus stop (12 minutes).
Experience the traditional pilgrimage to Ise Grand Shrine for yourself!
And don't forget to save this post to read it later!

21/07/2026

Ise-Shima: Begin Your Journey in a Sacred Land.
⛩️ It is often said that "a pilgrimage to Ise Grand Shrine should begin at Futami" Futami Okitama Jinja is a sacred place for the misogi ceremony, a purification ritual for the body and mind by the sea before entering the main shrine.
You will be greeted by the breathtaking seaside scenery of the 'Meotoiwa Rocks' also known as the husband and wife rocks. This powerful symbol of Ise-Shima is deeply rooted in Japanese beliefs and legends.
The origin of the Meotoiwa Rocks comes from their likeness to torii gates, used for worshipping sacred stones submerged in the deep sea and observing the sunrise over the water. Today, the large and small rocks are connected by a large sacred shimenawa rope. They symbolize love, strong bonds, and a harmonious married life, attracting individuals from around the world who come to pray for a happy marriage. From May to July, you can witness a magnificent sunrise as the sun's rays shine through the gaps between the rocks.
Upon entering the shrine grounds, you will notice statues of frogs of various sizes scattered throughout the area. 🐸
At Futami Okitama Shrine, frogs are considered messengers of the shrine's deity. Additionally, the Japanese word for frog, 'kaeru' sounds similar to 'return' that making frogs a symbol of good fortune that signifies a safe journey or the return of good things. As a result, it is a popular place to pray for safe travels while enjoying the serene atmosphere.
The path leading to the shrine, which stretches along the seashore, creates a special ambiance that awakens all the senses.
After paying your respects and purifying your mind, you will feel refreshed both physically and mentally, ready to continue your Ise-Shima adventure with renewed satisfaction.
📍 How to Get There:
- From Osaka-Namba: Take Kintetsu train from Osaka-Namba Station to Toba Station (2 hours). Then, take a bus to Meoto-iwa Higashiguchi bus stop (approximately 12 minutes).
- From Kintetsu-Nagoya: Take Kintetsu train from Kintetsu-Nagoya Station to Toba Station (1 hour 40 minutes). Then, take a bus to the Meoto-iwa Higashiguchi bus stop (approximately 12 minutes).
Share this post with someone you want to visit Ise-Shima with and start planning your next trip together!

16/07/2026

Ise-Shima: A Character Shop in Oharaimachi That Perfectly Blends Retro Charm with Cuteness!
Oharaimachi is a district steeped in the atmosphere of a traditional Japanese town, but it also boasts shops featuring beloved characters from around the world!
Stepping through the delicate Japanese veil that blends seamlessly with the town's retro landscape, you'll discover limited-edition items sold only here, along with a special atmosphere and an experience that can be enjoyed with all your senses.
・Miffy Oyatsudo Ise Store
This shop perfectly combines the cuteness of Miffy with the atmosphere of a traditional Japanese house under the concept of "Miffy × Snack Time." Inside, you'll find a wide variety of sweets and merchandise, such as "Miffy Dorayaki" dorayaki shaped like the adorable Miffy, Kohakuto, and other Japanese-style snacks and goods. Available exclusively at Ise branch.
・SNOOPY Village Ise Store
A store for Snoopy lovers that brings together three popular brands in one place: “SNOOPY Chaya”, “SNOOPY Chocolat” and “WOODSTOCK NEST Sweets & Goodies”, allowing everyone to enjoy themselves in just one visit.
Of course, there are many limited-edition items available only in Ise, as well as special items that cannot be found anywhere else. In addition, there are sweets perfect for souvenirs, or you can simply stroll around, sample the food, and explore Oharaimachi.
With an atmosphere that blends Japanese design, historical town, and the warm world of SNOOPY, the store feels like a nostalgic trip down memory lane, a unique and memorable experience found only in Japan.
📍How to get there:
From Osaka: Take Kintetsu train from Osaka-Namba Station to Iseshi Station (1 hour 50 minutes) then take a bus to Jingukaikan-mae bus stop (17 minutes) and walk for about 1 minute.
From Nagoya: Take Kintetsu train from Kintetsu-Nagoya Station to Iseshi Station (1 hour 20 minutes) then take a bus to Jingukaikan-mae bus stop (17 minutes) and walk for about 1 minute.
Are you excited to dive into a wonderful mix of traditional Japanese culture and lovable characters?
If you ever get the chance to visit Ise-Shima, make sure to bookmark this post so you can come back to it later!

10/07/2026

Back again with Kintetsu Railway Monthly News in June 2026 🫧
This time, we'll take you on a tour to see hydrangeas blooming in the rainy season, take in the refreshing air, and visit a restaurant serving Tamago Kake Gohan that everyone should try at least once. Of course, there are many more interesting things to see and do.
If you're ready, let's go!

This time we bring you to 'Kintetsu Railway Monthly News in June 2026' the latest travel spot updated news from Japan by Kintetsu Railways