Saikū Historical Museum

The Saikū Historical Museum (斎宮歴史博物館 saikū rekishi hakubutsukan) is a museum in Meiwa dedicated to the history of the Saiō, imperial princesses in the Heian era of Japan that were appointed the head priestess of Ise Grand Shrine and lived in a palace in what is now Meiwa.

Features

The museum is ideal for anybody interested in traditional Japanese culture and particularly local Mie history. There are a number of exhibits and movies detailing the Saioh, her life, and her procession from Kyoto to Meiwa at the time of her selection.

English earpieces are available.

Prices

• ¥330
• Free for children

Contact

• 〒515-0325　三重県多気郡明和町竹川503
• 503 Takegawa, Meiwa-chō, Taki-gun, Mie-ken, 515-0325
• 0596-52-3800
• saiku@pref.mie.jp

Events

• Saiō Festival

  Every year at the beginning of June there is a major festival honoring the Saio and Meiwa's history. A number of local residents get dressed up in ancient garb, and in particular the Saio is dressed in the impressive 1000 year-old kimono that can be seen at the museum.

Maps

• Official map
• Google map

Directions

By Train

First, get yourself to Saikū (斎宮) Station on the Kintetsu Yamada Line, a local stop between Matsusaka and Ujiyamada.

1. Head straight out of the station to a road running perpendicular. Turn right on that road.
2. At the first chance, turn right and cross the train tracks.
3. You'll be walking along the west end of the old Saiku Palace site. Turn left onto the road with the avenue of trees. This will take you all the way to the museum.

By Car

Accessible from Route 37.

Links

• Saiku Historical Museum - Official site