So, there I was, stuck in the Tokyo rain, dreaming of an escape. I stumbled upon VISON in Mie Prefecture—a place that promised gourmet delights and ultimate relaxation. Intrigued, I decided to make a spontaneous trip, and wow, did it surprise me!
A New Kind of Village
VISON opened in the summer of 2021, nestled in the verdant heart of Taki Town. It’s this sprawling resort-village hybrid with nine different areas, each offering something unique. I mean, it’s like a theme park for adults where ‘chill’ is the main attraction. Getting there was a breeze—just a 20-minute drive from Ise Jingu, and it’s directly connected to a smart interchange.
Foodie Heaven
First stop: Marche VISON. Picture this: Michelin-starred chefs curating a farmer’s market. Locals bring fresh catches and produce, and you can sample everything from Matsusaka beef to abalone. The air was filled with the irresistible aroma of grilled seafood. I went for the “焼き貝セット” (Grilled Shellfish Set) for ¥1,500 (about $10 USD). Fresh, juicy, and grilled right before my eyes—it was heavenly!
Sweet Delights and More
Next, I wandered into Sweet Village, a sweet tooth’s paradise by pastry chef Hironobu Tsujiguchi. The pastries were crafted with such precision—each bite was pure bliss. I couldn’t resist the freshly baked bread made from locally milled flour. And oh, the chocolate! It was like a little piece of heaven.
Surprises Around Every Corner
One thing I didn’t expect was the Atelier VISON, where art and food meet. A coffee shop serving a unique ‘Ise blend’—I ended up buying some for my mom. There’s also WA-VISON, a haven for traditional Japanese flavors. The soy sauce shop was an olfactory delight, and I even tried my hand at making my own dashi (soup stock) pack at Okume, a first for me!
For the Love of Relaxation
VISON isn’t just about food. The Honzo area, with its herbal baths, was a game-changer. Imagine soaking in a bath infused with 72 types of herbs—pure bliss! It costs ¥1,800 (around $12 USD), and trust me, it’s worth every yen.
VISON was more than just a trip; it was a rejuvenation of the senses. If you’re ever in Mie, give it a go. Who knows, maybe I’ll see you there next time, soaking in the herbal baths!
