Ise-Thursday-04.03.25

This morning, there was once again a very extensive buffet, with everything one could think of. Fish, meat, muesli, rolls, a dessert buffet, and various warm dishes. Of course, drinks were also available, with all kinds of coffee, tea, juices, and more.

Then it was time to pack our bags and head to the bus. We were all warmly seen off by the hotel staff, in the rain at the bus. They stood in a line and bowed as we departed. We waved back just as warmly.

Today we are traveling across the Pacific from Tobe to Ise. We took the bus onto the ferry and enjoyed the crossing in beautiful sunny weather. Upon arriving in Tobe, we drove to the 'Couple Rock,' where we strolled along a coastal walk under cherry trees and visited the shrine dedicated to the Shinto belief. After an hour, we continued by bus to the largest shrine of the Japanese, the Ise Shrine, which is dedicated to the sun goddess Amaterasu, from whom the Japanese emperor is said to descend.

The Inner Shrine is also called Ise Jingu and was founded over 2,000 years ago. Jingu literally means