Things to do in in Wakayama, Japan

Wakayama Prefecture, located in the Kansai region of Japan, offers a rich blend of cultural heritage, natural beauty, and culinary delights.

Kumano-Nachi Taisha

• Japanese: 熊野那智大社
• Google Maps link: https://maps.app.goo.gl/xbtiU2Xf4Vmtxem36
• Description: A stunning Shinto shrine part of the Kumano Sanzan, set against the backdrop of Nachi Falls, Japan's tallest waterfall dedicated to the worship of nature.
• Transport: Take a bus from Shirahama Station to Shingu Station, then transfer to a bus for Kumano Nachi Taisha.

Kumano-Kodo Nakahechi Pilgrimage Route

• Japanese: 熊野古道中辺路
• Google Maps link: https://maps.app.goo.gl/CRxjgPrE23mzyMbm9
• Description: The Nakahechi is the core trail of the Kumano Kodo pilgrimage network with a history of over 1000 years. It can be walked in consecutive day treks or experienced with shorter highlight walks.
• Transport: Access varies by trailhead; buses are available from Shirahama for closer trailheads like Takijiri-oji.

Shirahama beach

• Japanese: 白浜大浜海水浴場
• Google Maps link: https://maps.app.goo.gl/mPo5qUVXrG9rtaBU6
• Description: Famous for its white sand imported from Australia, Shirahama Beach is a popular spot for swimming and sunbathing.
• Transport: Walking distance from Shirahama Station.

Adventure World

• Japanese: アドベンチャーワールド
• Google Maps link: https://maps.app.goo.gl/K5pKeJqizGL9jeoB6
• Description: A unique combination of a zoo, aquarium, and amusement park, offering close encounters with pandas and marine life.
• Transport: Shuttle bus available from Shirahama Station.

Koyasan

• Google Maps link: https://maps.app.goo.gl/kXgx8hhKsdWrzZ4E7
• Japanese: 高野山
• Description: The center of Shingon Buddhism, with an overnight stay in a temple lodging offering a spiritual experience.
• Transport: Take a train to Hashimoto Station, then transfer to the Nankai Koya Line to Gokurakubashi Station, followed by a cable car to Kōyasan Station / 高野山駅.

Wakayama Castle

• Japanese: 和歌山城
• Google Maps link: https://maps.app.goo.gl/1SNY5pYBbvrr594w8
• Description: A historically significant castle offering panoramic views of Wakayama City, surrounded by cherry blossoms in spring.
• Transport: Take a train to Wakayama Station, then a bus or a 20-minute walk to the castle.

Nachi Falls

• Japanese: 那智の滝
• Google Maps link: https://maps.app.goo.gl/eYW1VufJgvPj7h6m6
• Description: Japan's tallest waterfall with a drop of 133 meters, considered sacred in Shinto and a spectacular natural site.
• Transport: Bus from Shingu Station, accessible by train from Shirahama Station.

Engetsu Island

• Japanese: 円月島
• Google Maps link: https://maps.app.goo.gl/1okmeVjLKmWb2fax5
• Description: A small, uninhabited island off the coast of Shirahama known for its picturesque arch and beautiful sunset views.
• Transport: Viewable from Shirahama Beach or accessible by sightseeing boat.

Kumano Hongu Taisha

• Japanese: 熊野本宮大社
• Google Maps link: https://maps.app.goo.gl/3r4npXGTtUdrtNLC7
• Description: One of the three grand shrines of Kumano, famous for its large torii gate and as a central site of worship in the area.
• Transport: Bus from Shingu Station, which is accessible by train from Shirahama Station.

Kishi Station

• Japanese: 貴志駅
• Google Maps link: https://maps.app.goo.gl/FCNPszzcociBcHrKA
• Description: A cat-themed train station named after Tama, the famous calico cat stationmaster.
• Transport: Take the Wakayama Electric Railway from Wakayama Station to Kishi Station.

Sandanbeki Cave

• Japanese: 三段壁洞窟
• Google Maps link: https://maps.app.goo.gl/Wym778rqbmmhMwja9
• Description: A dramatic cliff-side and cave complex along the coast, offering tours and stunning views of the Pacific Ocean.
• Transport: Bus from Shirahama Station.

Ryujin Hot Spring

• Japanese: 琉球温泉 龍神の湯
• Google Maps link: https://maps.app.goo.gl/TezFiiemaU72hxxW9
• Description: A hot spring area famous for its therapeutic waters, nestled in a scenic valley.
• Transport: Bus from Tanabe Station, which is accessible by train from Shirahama Station.

Hashigui-iwa Rocks

• Japanese: 橋杭岩
• Google Maps link: https://maps.app.goo.gl/NRXf7QYnoMss7MWE9
• Description: Unique rock formations off the coast that look like pillars of a bridge, offering a striking landscape especially at sunrise.
• Transport: Train from Shirahama Station to Kushimoto Station, then a short bus ride.

Saki-no-Yu Onsen Spa

• Japanese: 崎の湯
• Google Maps link: https://maps.app.goo.gl/DFbgrG6prJxrZMC98
• Description: One of Japan's oldest hot springs, with many baths offering views of the Pacific Ocean.
• Transport: Bus from Shirahama Station.

Kumano Hayatama Taisha

• Japanese: 熊野速玉大社
• Google Maps link: https://maps.app.goo.gl/Kt7wk2k3LwH23DSJ8
• Description: Another of the three grand shrines of Kumano, located in Shingu, rich in history and spiritual significance.
• Transport: Train from Shirahama Station to Shingu Station, then a short walk.

Wakayama Marina City

• Japanese: 和歌山マリーナシティ
• Google Maps link: https://maps.app.goo.gl/WexvFeN7okG9k1yYA
• Description: A resort island featuring a theme park, fish market, and the Kuroshio Market, known for tuna cutting shows.
• Transport: Bus from Wakayama Station.

Senjojiki Rock Plateau

• Japanese: 千畳敷
• Google Maps link: https://maps.app.goo.gl/dUkXG9EYHSkf2SPp8
• Description: A vast, flat rock surface created by wave erosion, offering spectacular views of the ocean and sunset.
• Transport: Bus from Shirahama Station.

Kozan-ji Temple

• Japanese: 高山寺
• Google Maps link: https://maps.app.goo.gl/Zo18AEBMhmqYG7Mm9
• Description: An ancient temple known for its historical significance and as the location of the Choishimichi trail markers.
• Transport: Train and bus from Shirahama Station to Kozan-ji.

Shirahama Energy Land

• Japanese: 白浜エネルギーランド
• Google Maps link: https://maps.app.goo.gl/7u2pnwfWaZGhWW336
• Description: A theme park offering a variety of attractions, including rides and interactive exhibits focused on energy.
• Transport: Short walk or bus from Shirahama Station.