Private Tour

Hands-on Insider Experience at a Historic Shrine

Overview

Available languages

English

3 hours

Mobile ticket

• Exclusive Access: Participate in rituals not open to the public.

• Cultural Depth: Learn directly from the Ujiko, the local guardians of the shrine.

• Meaningful Keepsake: Create a personalized Goshuin with guidance from shrine staff.

• Intimate Connection: Enjoy a private Naorai meal with the priest and locals — a moment rarely shared with outsiders.

• Scenic Setting: Located near the ancient capital of Ise, this area is steeped in the spirit of Japan’s Shinto heartland.

Perfect For Travelers Who:

• Seek authentic cultural immersion beyond sightseeing.

• Appreciate quiet, meaningful experiences over crowds.

• Want to connect with locals and Japan’s living traditions.

• Value spiritual or reflective travel and cultural storytelling.

Additional Info

Public transportation options are available nearby

Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries

Not recommended for pregnant travelers

Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

Cancellation Policy

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

What To Expect

Most travelers only see Japan’s shrines from the outside. This experience invites you inside — into the quiet world where centuries-old traditions still breathe. In a small town in Mie Prefecture, you’ll be welcomed not as a tourist, but as an honored guest by the Ujiko — the local community who have cared for this shrine for generations. Dressed in traditional Samue robes, you’ll take part in the daily rituals usually reserved for insiders: cleansing the sacred grounds, offering prayers, and joining a rare Tokubetsu Sanpai (special visit to the inner sanctuary). You’ll also craft your own Goshuin, a hand-brushed shrine seal symbolizing your spiritual connection to the place — something you cannot simply buy. The day concludes with a Naorai, a shared meal with the priest and community members, where stories, smiles, and traditions are exchanged freely across cultures. This is an authentic connection with Japan’s living heritage, guided by the people who preserve it. For those seeking meaning beyond sightseeing, this experience is worth every mile.

What‘s Included

Guide fee

Enjoy a Japanese bento inspired by meals from the Heian period

All Fees and Taxes

Options

Take Shrine Activity with Lunch

Reviews

5.00

1 review

Total reviews and rating from Viator & Tripadvisor

Absolutely phenomenal experience I won't forget; a must-do for anyone interested in Shinto.
AhojJaJsemMichal,,Sep 21, 2024
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00
When planning my trip to Japan, I came across this activity unlike any other. While several shrines offer a "Miko experience," this is the only shrine that provides the opportunity to spend a day as an Ujiko, regardless of gender. Take Jinja is located on the way to the main Shinto shrine in Ise, and it just so happened that my trip to Ise fit perfectly into weekend. So, I decided to contact the shrine. All communication went smoothly, and I received quick responses to every question. I was really looking forward to the experience. On Sunday, at the agreed-upon time, I was greeted at the shrine by a group of very cheerful and smiling people. We talked about the shrine, Shinto, and I was given a samue to change into. It was extremely hot, but I was constantly supplied with delicious cold tea. Then we headed outside. First, I was given an explanation of the shrine's history, and then the priest showed me how to properly purify myself with water, after which he performed a purification ritual. This was followed by sweeping and beautifying the grounds in front of the shrine, replacing the shide on the shimenawa, and changing the offerings, including the offering of tamagushi. After that, we moved inside, where we created goshuins and made amulets from hemp. The whole activity concluded with a luxurious lunch featuring a historical bento and delicious rice cooked in bamboo. Everyone was extremely kind and friendly the entire time, patiently answering my questions, and the translation into English was absolutely excellent. I walked away with a deeper understanding of Shinto, beautiful memories, and for several days after the experience, I still felt like I was floating on a cloud. I wholeheartedly recommend this activity to anyone interested in Japanese culture and Shinto. It was truly the highlight of my trip to Japan. Many thanks, Take Jinja!