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.

Kumano Kodo, sacred trails leading to the Kumano shrines.

Like other prefectures, Mie is facing challenges related to a declining birthrate and an aging population, leading to labor shortages. The number of foreign workers in Mie is approximately 30,000, with most coming from Vietnam, Brazil, and the Philippines. Over 40% of these workers are employed in manufacturing, while others work in the service industry.
In terms of residency status, nearly 50% hold visas based on familial or personal ties, making this the largest group. This is followed by technical interns, who make up around 30%, and those in specialized or technical fields, accounting for just under 10%. These foreign workers play an important role in supporting Mie’s labor market across various industries.