Famous Hydrangea Spot in Shima “DAIJIJI”!

Hey everyone!
Since we’re in the middle of Hydrangea (Ajisai) season, I’d like to introduce a famous hydrangea spot here in Shima: Daijiji Temple (大慈寺)!
It’s unknown when Daijiji Temple was first founded, but its history goes back to at least the beginning of the 18th century, even though it has gone through cycles of name changes, fires, reconstructions and repairs.
Hydrangeas were first planted on and near the temple grounds in 1987, leading to the temple being nicknamed the “Hydrangea Temple (Ajisai-dera),” and it has kept this nickname ever since.
The temple grounds and vicinity contain a wide variety of hydrangeas in a number of colors, so it is very beautiful during the rainy season, which is when hydrangeas are at their peak.
There are also a lot of other summer flowers as well, so it’s a great place to simultaneously enjoy the beauty of flowers and the serenity of the temple grounds.
Daijiji Temple is located in Nakiri, Daio-Chō, so please visit if you ever get the chance!
I hope everyone enjoys hydrangeas in Japan wherever you are!

Related LinksDaijiji Temple (Official website Japanese only)
Daijiji Temple

Introducing of a seasonal fish that populates Shima’s waters: Isagi!

Hey everyone!

Today I’d like to introduce a seasonal fish that populates Shima’s waters: Isagi!
Also known as the “Chicken Grunt,” the Isagi is a fish that’s in season from spring to fall, with its peak season being from spring to summer!

One of the unique qualities of Isagi is that it’s delicious regardless of size, unlike other fish who follow a “bigger is better” pattern.

That being said, Isagi is especially delicious as sashimi (I can attest to this!) during its spawning season (May-June), because its body produces more fat during this period. It’s so good that it can even be compared to Tai (Sea Bream), which is a higher quality fish.

Be on the lookout for Isagi at your local shops and markets, and give it a try if you get the chance!

(Photo credits go to their original owners)

“Let’s overcome COVID-19 together!” from Mie prefecture

Hey everyone!
The world may still be battling the Coronavirus now, but all of us here in Shima, and in Mie, are waiting for the day when people from all around the world can visit us again!
The Mie Prefecture Tourism Federation has published a YouTube video aimed at tourist agencies around the worlds to support the people, local business, and tourism industry here in Mie, so please take a look at it when you have time!
Members of Shima City Hall, the Shima City Tourism Association, and our own mascot, Shimako-san, also make appearances in the video, so be on the lookout for them as well!
Wishing for everyone’s continued health and happiness during these times!

Related Links“Let’s overcome COVID-19 together!” from Mie prefecture
「讓我們一起克服新型冠狀病毒!」三重縣 敬啟
“มาเอาชนะโควิด-19ด้วยกันเถอะ!” จากจังหวัดมิเอะ

Shima Tourist Information Center Just Had Its Soft Reopening! (May 25 (Mon.))

Shima Tourist Information Center just had its Soft Reopening on May 25 (Mon.)!
With our fragrant cedar pamphlet racks and our new PCs equipped with Internet connection, we hope we’ve created a welcoming environment where tourists can easily look up information.
We’ve also stocked up on pamphlets in multiple languages, and we have English-speaking staff who can help you so that your trip is stress-free!
In addition, we also have an electronic translator to help us communicate in other languages as well!
Our Grand Reopening will be on June 1 (Mon.)!
We’re right inside Ugata Station, so please stop by when you come visit Shima!
We’ll help provide you with the best tourist information to make the most of your trip!

<Services Provided>
・Wi-Fi
・Portable Wi-Fi Rentals (Fee Charged)
・PCs with Internet Connection
・Smartphone Chargers (Free)
・Wheelchair Rentals (Free)
・Multi-Language Pamphlets
・English-Speaking Staff

place1670-2 Ugata, Ago-cho, Shima City, Mie
517-0501 JAPAN
ContactEmail: info@shimakanko_master

The Reception Desk of the Shima City Tourism Association will open from Mon. June 1st, 2020.

Our reception desk will be open from Mon., June 1st, 2020 with the special care to prevent the COVID-19. Kindly understand the situation. We highly appreciate your cooperation.