Meiwa, town in Taki district, Mie prefecture, Japan
Meiwa is a small town in Japan, located between the cities of Matsusaka and Ise, overlooking Ise Bay. The landscape here is flat with farmland, small shops, and quiet streets where life moves at a gentle pace.
The area was historically known as the home of the Saiō, a priestess from the imperial family who served in important ceremonies at the Ise Shrine. During the Edo period, the area became a busy center for farmers and pilgrims traveling to the shrine.
The name Meiwa connects to the Saio, a priestess from the imperial family who served at the Ise Shrine in ancient ceremonies. Visitors can still see old shrines and monuments that show this connection and remind us of the town's important role in religious life.
The town is best reached by the Yamada Line railway operated by Kintetsu Railway, which serves several stations and connects to larger cities like Osaka and Nagoya. A local bus service links the stations and main attractions such as the Saikū Historical Museum and beaches, making it easy to explore on foot or by public transport.
Visitors can try on a special ancient robe called Junihitoe, worn by court ladies in old times, and experience how a Heian-period princess dressed. Friendly staff help with putting on the elaborate garment and explain the history and traditions connected to it.
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