Oharai-machi is the lively approach street outside Naiku. Its restaurants and shops keep an old-town look, and the side lanes of Okage Yokocho add more food stalls, souvenirs, and occasional performances.
It is commercial, especially on weekends and around New Year, but it feels tied to the shrine rather than separate from it. Stop here for Ise udon or akafuku after visiting Naiku.