The Location of Mie Prefecture
Mie Prefecture is located on the Pacific side in the central part of Japan, facing both Ise Bay and the Pacific Ocean. The prefecture is home to many natural wonders and historical landmarks, including Ise Jingu (Ise Shrine), the Kumano Kodo, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, the birthplace of Iga ninjas, and its unique ria coastlines.The climate in Mie is mild, influenced by the Kuroshio Current, which helps support the production of various agricultural products, including rice. The region's distinctive seas, such as Ise Bay, the Kumano Nada, and the ria coast, are crucial to its fishing industries, which take advantage of the specific features of each area.One of the unique cultural practices in Mie is the tradition of ama (female divers), particularly in the Toba and Shima regions, where divers harvest shellfish and seaweed using traditional free diving techniques. This practice has been passed down through generations and is recognized as an Intangible Folk Cultural Asset by the prefecture.