No.3 Morning Crowd on “Geku Sando” on Weekend
As travelers depart the south exit of Ise City Station, they will see “Geku Sando” the traditional main street that leads directly to “Geku”, the outer shrine of Ise Jingu. On weekends during this time of year, people walking along Geku Sando, will find that the street transforms into a local style market where they can find all kinds of food and drink that are as distinct as they are delicious.
Since Ise is tucked between the mountains and ocean, there are many local people selling their goods that are very indicative of the local fare. Travelers and locals alike marvel at the many different kinds of fish, seaweed, and vegetables on display.
Whether you are looking for some vegetables or fish to take home or looking to soak up some local culture, this is a great place to start your day. And if you are like me and can’t wait until you get home to test some of the offerings, don’t worry, there are plenty of things you can eat or drink while you stroll from stand to stand. If you are a fan of seafood, then this is a place for you. You can try grilled scallops on the half-shell, broiled and seasoned dried fish, or a hot cup of miso soup chock full of seaweed. All of these edibles taste particularly yummy during the recent cold weather. And if the food doesn’t put a smile on your face, the warmth and kindness of the local sellers certainly will!
The morning market is open from 8:00 AM to 11:00 AM every Saturday and Sunday through the end of February.
And if you make it to the market, do yourself a favor and make your way toward the south end of Geku Sando near the front of the Ise-city Tourism Office, to get a special souvenir—a good luck charm made of wood recycled from Ise Jingu.
These rare charms are not sold but are given to visitors each Saturday and Sunday. There is a limited supply each day and charms are distributed from 10:00 AM until supplies run out. There is a one charm per visitor limit and this special offering will end on Sunday, February 14.