Mie Prefecture is located at the boundary between the Kansai and Tokai regions of Japan. It is a unique area where diverse geography, culture, and economy coexist. The capital is Tsu City, while the largest city is Yokkaichi.
Mie Prefecture encompasses four former provinces—Ise, Shima, Iga, and part of Kii—giving it a rich historical and cultural background. The geography ranges from northern plains to southern coastlines and mountains, with varying climates and lifestyles depending on the region.
In the northern region (Hokusei), Mie forms part of the Chukyo Industrial Zone and is closely connected to Nagoya in Aichi Prefecture. In terms of TV broadcasts, transportation, and economy, it is considered part of the Tokai region. Conversely, areas like Iga have strong cultural and economic ties to the Kansai region, positioning Mie as a crossroads of Chubu and Kansai cultures.
Economy and Industry
Mie Prefecture has a well-balanced development in industry, agriculture, and tourism:
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The Hokusei region (including Yokkaichi) thrives in heavy industries such as petrochemicals, precision machinery, and transport equipment. The Yokkaichi Industrial Complex is one of Japan’s leading industrial zones.
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Kameyama City hosts high-tech industries, including Sharp’s LCD factory.
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The Shima and Ise areas are centered around fishing and tourism, famous for Ama divers, pearl farming, and Ise lobster (spiny lobster).
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Mie also holds a unique distinction for having the highest national production of candles and keys.
With stable economic growth, Mie ranks first in Japan in terms of “economic affluence”—defined by the gap between disposable income and expenditures—indicating a high quality of life.
Tourism and Culture
Mie is rich in tourist attractions, offering a blend of historical and natural sites that draw visitors from across Japan and abroad.
Major tourist destinations include:
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Ise Grand Shrine (Ise Jingu): Considered the spiritual heart of Japan, attracting millions of worshippers from across the country.
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Kumano Kodo: A UNESCO World Heritage site, known for its ancient pilgrimage routes and sacred sites.
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Theme parks such as Shima Spain Village, Suzuka Circuit, Nabana no Sato, and Nagashima Spa Land.
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Iga Ueno: A historic town known for its ninja heritage and Iga-yaki pottery.
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Futamiura, Toba, and aquariums offer scenic beauty and an abundance of marine life.
With such diverse attractions and excellent access from both the Keihanshin (Kyoto–Osaka–Kobe) and Nagoya metropolitan areas, tourism is one of the major pillars of the local economy.
Climate and Natural Environment
Mie’s long north-south orientation and diverse geography result in varied climate conditions:
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Hokusei region (near Suzuka Mountains): Experiences heavy snowfall in winter, especially in mountainous areas.
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Iga region (Ueno Basin): Noted for harsh winters, hot summers, and significant daily temperature fluctuations.
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Central Mie (Ise Plain): Generally warm, though some areas are prone to flooding.
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Higashikishu (along Kumano-nada coast): One of Japan’s rainiest areas, with Owase City recording up to 4,000mm of annual rainfall. It is also frequently affected by typhoons.
These climate differences significantly influence agriculture, lifestyle, and local cultures.
Summary
Mie Prefecture stands out for its intermediate location linking Tokai and Kansai, and for its regional diversity. It offers a harmonious blend of tradition and modern industry, nature and urban life, and is home to culturally and spiritually important sites such as Ise Jingu. With strong potential in both economy and tourism, Mie is cherished as a “crossroads” prefecture that is easily accessible from both the Chukyo and Kansai regions.