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Add to SafariWhen comparing Ishigaki Island vs Ise, the Slant community recommends Ise for most people. In the question“What are the best cities to visit in Japan besides Tokyo and Kyoto?” Ise is ranked 6th while Ishigaki Island is ranked 9th. The most important reason people chose Ise is:
The Ise Grand Shrine is unique in Japan as being the top of the hierarchy of Shinto shrines connecting to Japan's imperial house. It is taken down and completely rebuilt every 20 years.
Question Ranking
Pros
Pro Unique culture and history
Since Okinawa was originally a separate country from Japan, Ishigaki is one of the best ways to explore Okinawan culture. There are unique food, phrases, and styles of dress visible all over the island.
Pro 'Hawaii' of Japan
The second-largest island in Okinawa, there are long strips of beaches all around the island.
Pro Home of the highest ranking Shinto shrine
The Ise Grand Shrine is unique in Japan as being the top of the hierarchy of Shinto shrines connecting to Japan's imperial house. It is taken down and completely rebuilt every 20 years.
Pro Ise lobster
Despite being a small town, Ise is home to the Ise lobster, which is well-known throughout Japan for its culinary applications. There are entire traditional course meals using the Ise lobster at Ise's traditional inns.
Cons
Con Need a car to get around
While there is a bus and some taxis, the more efficient way to get around is by car. Renting a car will mean added costs, but it offers the most freedom to fully explore the island.
Con Not a lot to do after a few days
Ise is a small town, so there's a fairly finite number of attractions in Ise. Ise is best for 2-day-1-night trips.
Con No direct bullet train to Ise
If traveling from Tokyo, travelers must transfer from Nagoya onto the local rail system to get to Ise.
