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A relaxing and soothing trip to Wakayama: A guide to spectacular views and experiences that are popular with foreign tourists
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Wakayama Prefecture, a Japanese destination where tranquility and mystery intersect, nature and history, is currently attracting significant attention from international tourists. While not flashy, it is one of the few places where you can experience Japan’s deep culture, and is a destination packed with unique experiences and exquisite cuisine. This article focuses on the appeal of Wakayama Prefecture to international travelers, providing a comprehensive introduction to essential information on visiting, including locations, culture, access, accommodations, dining, and experiences.
In recent years, Wakayama Prefecture has become known as a spiritual destination, captivating travelers from around the world thanks to World Heritage sites such as the Kumano Kodo Trail and Mount Koya. We’ll also provide a detailed explanation of what you can experience in this region, where nature and history blend seamlessly, including hot springs, beaches, mountain worship, temples and shrines, and gourmet food.
This Wakayama Prefecture travel guide combines practical information with comprehensive information for international visitors who want to learn more about Japan, and for Japanese visitors who want to guide them.
Table of Contents
Where is Wakayama Prefecture? Basic Information and Geographical Overview
Wakayama Prefecture, located in Japan’s Kansai region, is a naturally rich prefecture stretching across the southwestern Kii Peninsula. The Pacific Ocean borders the Pacific Ocean to the west, while the inland region is dotted with the deep mountains of Yoshino-Kumano National Park and religious sites such as Mount Koya. It is also known worldwide for the ancient pilgrimage route, the Kumano Kodo. The prefecture’s unique geography, stretching from north to south, allows it to offer a diverse range of tourist attractions.
Prefectural Capitals and Bases
Wakayama City is the prefectural capital and is also known as a historic port town located at the mouth of the Kinokawa River. Relatively accessible from Osaka and Kyoto, it is often used as a starting point for trips to tourist destinations such as Nanki Shirahama, Mount Koya, and Nachikatsuura.
Weather and Best Travel Season
The prefecture boasts a warm climate, with relatively mild weather throughout the year. Temperatures remain stable from spring to autumn, allowing visitors to enjoy the region’s beautiful natural scenery, making it a popular time of year for international tourists. You can especially enjoy the contrast of cherry blossoms in spring, the sea and hot springs in summer, the autumn leaves in fall, and the snow and hot springs in winter.
12 Popular Tourist Destinations and Sightseeing Spots for Foreign Tourists
Wakayama Prefecture is dotted with many scenic spots and historical landmarks, and visitors are deeply impressed. Below, we introduce 12 particularly popular locations.
1. Kumano Kodo (Nakahechi)
Kumano Kodo, a World Heritage Site, is known as a “pilgrimage route” comparable to Spain’s Camino de Santiago, and attracts a constant stream of foreign visitors seeking a spiritual journey. The Nakahechi route stretches approximately 40 km from Nachikatsuura to Kumano Hongu Taisha Shrine, and you can trek just a portion of it.
2. Mount Koya
Founded by Kobo Daishi (Kukai), this sacred site of Japanese Buddhism offers a unique and valuable training experience. The inner sanctuary and Danjogaran (Danjo-garan) are enveloped in a mystical atmosphere. Staying overnight at a temple lodging and savoring vegetarian cuisine will be a lifelong memory.
3. Shirahama Onsen
One of the Kansai region’s leading hot spring resorts, Shirahama Onsen is a beautiful resort adjacent to the sparkling blue beach of Shirahama. Shirahama Adventure World is also famous as a panda breeding facility and is popular with foreign families.
4. Nachi Falls and Kumano Nachi Taisha Shrine
Nachi Falls, Japan’s tallest waterfall, and Kumano Nachi Taisha Shrine, with its beautiful vermilion torii gate, offer a truly spectacular experience, combining breathtaking scenery and a sacred atmosphere. It’s also a popular Instagram spot for photography-loving foreign visitors.
5. Wakayama Castle
This historic structure, located in the heart of Wakayama City, offers a panoramic view of the city from the castle tower, and its historical background is carefully explained through exhibits. This is a must-visit spot for foreigners interested in samurai culture.
6. Tomogashima
This uninhabited island off the coast of Kada, Wakayama Prefecture, is popular with ruin lovers and adventurous travelers. Its Ghibli-esque scenery has caused a buzz on social media, rapidly increasing its popularity among international tourists.
7. Taiji and the History of Whaling
The island boasts a variety of facilities that convey Japan’s unique whaling culture, including the Whale Museum, where you can learn about Japan’s maritime culture. While this is a controversial topic, many international visitors find it fascinating.
8. Kushimoto’s Underwater Landscape
Known as one of Japan’s top diving spots, this area is the country’s first designated underwater park. Snorkeling and glass-bottom boat experiences are also available, making it a recommended spot for nature lovers.
9. Nanbu Plum Grove and Plum Wine Factory
As Japan’s leading plum producer, the area boasts a spectacular plum grove during the flowering season. In addition, there are plum wine tasting factory tours, popular with foreigners interested in sake and liqueurs.
10. Kada Sea and Awashima Shrine
Awashima Shrine, famous for its doll memorial service, is popular for its unique cultural experiences. Kada Sea is also charming, and its location within a day’s train journey from Osaka makes it an ideal area for short-term foreign visitors.
11. A Journey Devoted to Wakayama Ramen
From ramen shops near the station to famous establishments, long-established establishments like Ide Shoten have become sacred places for tourists visiting Japan, with constant lines. The rich flavor of the pork bone and soy sauce base is popular even with those new to Japanese ramen.
12. Tanabe City’s History and Travel Starting Point
Known as a stopover on the Kumano Kodo, Tanabe is home to many high-quality inns and guesthouses, making it a treasure trove of local cuisine. The region as a whole has a well-established system for welcoming foreigners, so you can rest assured.
Experience Activities to Enjoy in Wakayama Prefecture
In addition to sightseeing, there are plenty of uniquely Wakayama-style experiences popular with international tourists.
Shojin Ryori Experience (Mount Koya)
At Mount Koya, home to centuries of temple culture, you can experience “Shojin Ryori,” a traditional Japanese cuisine that helps to eliminate worldly desires, while staying at a temple lodging. It has also gained popularity overseas as a form of vegan cuisine and is popular among European travelers.
Wagashi Baking Experience
In Wakayama City and the Tanabe area, there are interactive workshops led by local wagashi artisans. These popular experiences allow participants to experience Japanese culture with all five senses, including making high-quality sweets modeled after seasonal flowers.
Agricultural Experience (Plum Picking/Mikan Picking)
Wakayama Prefecture is a major producer of mikan and plums. Depending on the season, you can experience harvesting at a farm. This is a valuable opportunity to interact with locals and gain a truly “local experience.”
Calligraphy and Yukata Experience
Many facilities offer calligraphy experiences and yukata dressing sessions with Japanese instructors by reservation. These services cater to those seeking a truly Japanese look, especially for Instagram posts.
Complete Access and Transportation Guide
Route from Osaka/Kansai International Airport
The most common route is to travel directly from Kansai International Airport (KIX) to Wakayama. Direct access to Wakayama Station and Shirahama is available via the Nankai Electric Railway and the JR Limited Express Kuroshio.
Rental Cars and Precautions
Public transportation is limited in major tourist areas, so rental cars are popular among foreign travelers with valid driver’s licenses. However, caution is advised if you are unfamiliar with Japanese road signs and driving on the left side of the road.
Using Buses and Taxis
In rural areas, buses often operate at limited times, so it’s essential to check the timetable in advance. Some areas (such as Mount Koya and Shirahama) offer English-speaking tourist taxi services.
Accommodation Options
A wide range of accommodation options are available, from luxury resort hotels to affordable guesthouses and even temple lodgings. The temple lodgings at Mount Koya and the hot spring inns in southern Kii are particularly popular with foreign tourists.
Hospitality Tips for Foreigners and Tourist Information
Availability of English-Speaking Assistance
Many facilities offer some English support, and tourist information centers provide English maps and pamphlets. However, some shops and restaurants in rural areas may not speak English, so using a translation app is recommended.
Religious and Cultural Consideration
For foreigners seeking vegetarian, halal, or religious taboos, it’s helpful to research in advance which restaurants can accommodate these needs. Many such accommodations are readily available at Mount Koya and the Kumano Kodo Trail.
Popular Cuisine and Food Culture in Wakayama Prefecture
The menu is diverse, featuring fresh seafood, including sushi, ramen, plum dishes, and game meat. The following dishes are particularly popular among foreign visitors:
– Wakayama Ramen
– Nanki Tuna Bowl
– Kumano Beef Sukiyaki
– Pickled Plums and Plum Wine
Experience flavors beloved by locals and tourists alike.
Recommended Non-Tourist Experiences (Culture and Arts)
Folk performing arts, Bon Odori dances, encounters with local art, and morning markets at the fishing port are all uniquely Wakayama-esque experiences. Experiences like experiencing fishing village customs are particularly unique and have even been featured in international documentaries.
Recommended Activities for Families and Seniors
There are also plenty of safe and enjoyable facilities, such as roadside stations, foot baths, and animal parks. Having English-speaking staff at these facilities will also boost your travel reputation.
Summary
Wakayama Prefecture offers a spiritual and profound charm that can be considered the origin of Japan through nature, history, faith, food, and cultural experiences. For foreign tourists in particular, it is a place where you can have a lasting experience that goes beyond just sightseeing. Walking the Kumano Kodo trail, experiencing the Zen spirit at Mount Koya, soaking in hot springs and savoring the local cuisine—every moment like this makes a tourist’s trip truly special. For travel-loving and curious foreign visitors, a trip to Wakayama will truly allow you to experience the depths of Japanese culture.
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