Iga Province

Iga Province is a former administrative region in western Mie Prefecture with mountainous terrain and borders touching several neighboring areas. The landscape features hills and ridges that separated the territory from surrounding provinces like Ise, Ōmi, Yamato, and Yamashiro.

The territory gained independence in 680 CE when it separated from neighboring Ise Province and established its own government. This founding marked the beginning of a distinct political development that would continue for centuries.

The region became known for its ninja communities during the medieval period, who developed their own training schools and fighting traditions. Today, visitors can explore museums and sites in Iga city that document this warrior legacy.

The former provincial area is now well served by modern transportation networks, connecting Iga city and surrounding areas to major centers like Nara, Kyoto, Osaka, and Nagoya. Travelers can explore this region easily by train or car to visit multiple historical sites.

The former province was divided into four districts: Ahai, Iga, Nabari, and Yamada, encompassing roughly 197 villages spread across the mountainous landscape. This administrative structure reflected how the region was organized for governance purposes.