MIE

ken (prefecture), central Honshu, Japan, occupying part of the Kii Peninsula. It faces Ise Bay to the east and the Pacific Ocean to the south. The deeply indented Pacific coast, fringed with islands, and the ancient town of Ise form the central attractions of Ise-shima National Park in the prefecture. Sheltered inlets produce cultured pearls, lobster, and shrimp. The port of Toba is a tourist centre; offshore are the Wedded Rocks, which are likened to Shinto deities and are joined by a large straw rope. Heavy industries in the prefecture produce chemicals, petroleum, iron, and steel. Traditional industries produce textiles, porcelain, lumber, cement, and glass. Tsu, on the west shore of Ise Bay, is the prefectural capital. Mie University, founded in 1949, is located there. Area 2,231 square miles (5,778 square km). Pop. (1994 est.) 1,827,000.