Hello, I’m Ontama Negitoro.This time, I’d like to introduce a short cycling trip to the “Town of Shinobi” in Iga City, Mie Prefecture, a place famous for ninjas. When asked about famous historical spots in the Kansai region, most people would mention the ancient capitals of Nara and Kyoto. The “Town of Shinobi” is located along the route connecting these historic cities and major urban centers like Osaka to Mie Prefecture, home to the Ise Grand Shrine. Quite fitting for a place known for its stealth, don’t you think? Table of Contents 1. Onto the Iga Kaido, Where Ninjas Once Raced Through2. A Castle Fit for a Shinobi – Admiring Hakuho Castle3. That’s a Ninja House!4. […]

In Japan, there are numerous shrines and temples. Among them, Ise Grand Shrine in Mie Prefecture holds significant importance. This time, we will introduce a route of about 20 kilometers that revolves around Ise Grand Shrine, deeply intertwined with history and culture. Starting from Chubu Centrair International Airport, we’ll cross to Mie Prefecture by ferry, pass through Ise Grand Shrine, and reach the goal at Toba Station. Ise is often called the Land of the Gods. Along the way, you’ll encounter several torii gates. Torii gates signify the boundary between the world of gods and humans. When passing through a torii gate, stop just before and bow in reverence. Now, let’s e […]