Mie Prefecture occupies the eastern tip of the Kii Peninsula along Japan's Pacific coast, sheltering Japan's most sacred Shinto shrine complex, a UNESCO-listed pilgrimage network, pristine pearl-farming bays, and a coastline famous for Ise lobster and Matsusaka wagyu beef.
Best souvenirs
Authentic items worth bringing home.
Akafuku mochi – Ise's iconic red-bean rice cake; buy from Akafuku Honten; ¥330 (~$2) for 5 pieces; same-day only
Mikimoto or regional pearl jewellery – genuine Akoya cultured pearls from Ago Bay
Matsusaka beef dried jerky or canned portions – available at Wadakin and Matsusaka City shops
Matsusaka momen – striped cotton fabric, a 300-year-old weaving tradition; sold at Matsusaka Momen Centre
Iga-yaki pottery – rough-textured stoneware from Iga's ancient kilns; sold in Iga castle district
Local Mie sake – look for Hakuro, Isozakura, or Terada Honke brands at local liquor shops
Traditional markets
Where locals shop and travellers find treasures.
Toba Fish Market (Uoichiba)
Fresh catch; some visitors buy to take home on ice
Hours: 07:00–14:00 Tue–Sat
Matsusaka City Market
Local farm produce, pickles, dried foods
Hours: 08:00–12:00 Sundays (rotating)