Bonjour!
From today, I’d like to start sharing the charms of Ise City, where I live.
I am going to introduce must-visit cafés, shrines, and gourmet spots that my wife and I discovered on our weekend strolls.
Now then, let me introduce Ise-Musubi, a cozy rice ball shop my wife encountered a few days ago.
It’s located about a 5-minute walk from the south exit of Ise Station.
This rice ball specialty shop just opened on January 11, 2025.
“A Kitchen of Ise” Born from a Renovated Home
The shop is run by owner Kihoko Kawanaka, who transformed her 50-year-old family home into a warm, welcoming space with eight counter seats for dining in and a takeout window.
Before opening this shop, Ms. Kawanaka worked for a major travel agency and a local tourism association — she’s truly a professional at showcasing regional charm.
She says, “As a way of giving back to the area that raised me near Gekū Shrine, I want to share the beauty of Mie through rice balls.”
It’s a shop overflowing with local love!
Their dedication to ingredients is truly impressive
The rice used is a specially cultivated Koshihikari from Iga, cooked to fluffy perfection in a Banko-yaki “Best Pot” made in Yokkaichi.
The seaweed is top-grade “first-harvest” nori from Toba, the salt comes from Iwato Salt Workshop in Futamiura, and the bonito flakes are from Katsuo no Tempaku in Shima.
Every ingredient — from chirimen (dried baby sardines) to Matsusaka beef shigure-ni and even gas shrimp tempura — is carefully sourced from producers within Mie Prefecture.
What’s more, each rice ball is gently grilled over Kishu Binchotan charcoal, making this shop a true embodiment of “connecting the blessings of Ise.”
What did I have this time?
I ordered two classic rice balls — the Iwato Salt Musubi (¥250) and the Freshly Shaved Bonito Flakes Musubi (¥330).
First up, the salt musubi.
The gentle saltiness of the roasted Iwato Salt from Futami perfectly enhances the natural sweetness of the fluffy rice — it’s absolutely delicious.
It’s the definition of “simple is best.” I honestly could’ve eaten several more and even thought about ordering another right after finishing it.
Next, the bonito-flake musubi.
This one is a “double-layer” masterpiece — the bonito flakes are mixed into the rice and sprinkled generously on top.
With just one bite, a rich, savory aroma of dried bonito spreads beautifully through your mouth.
A few unique flavors, too!
This time, we went with two classic choices, but the menu also features some creative ones like Deep-Fried Gas Shrimp and Chirimen Sansho with Onion and Green Pepper — quite an interesting lineup!
Next time, I’d definitely love to try those unique options as well.
Since the shop opens as early as 8:00 a.m., it’s perfect for hotel guests looking for breakfast or anyone wanting a light bite before visiting Ise’s Outer Shrine (Geku).
Each rice ball is packed with the rich taste of Ise — small in size, but full of local flavor. Be sure to give them a try when you’re in town!
So then, Au revoir!
✴️ Opening Hours：8:00～15:00
✴️ Closed：Tuesday, Every other Wednesday
✴️ Location：3-5 minutes’ walk from the south exit of Ise-shi Station
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