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Senjojiki Rock Plateau

Senjojiki Rock Plateau

"Senjojiki" is a scenic spot where a huge white rock bed protruding into the Pacific Ocean has become flat terrain like a thousand tatami mats spread out due to wave erosion. While walking on the vast rocks, you can feel the dynamically crashing waves and the vast horizon up close. Especially at dusk, the sight of the sinking sun dyeing the white rock surface golden is breathtakingly beautiful. This place where you can directly feel the incredible power of great nature is also perfect for photography, and is a very popular spot for active travelers who want to enjoy the...

Wakayama
Sightseeing
Nature
Spring
Summer
Autumn
Winter

Shirarahama Beach

Shirarahama Beach

"Shirarahama," the symbol of Nanki Shirahama, is one of Japan's most beautiful beaches, featuring white, silky sand stretching for about 620 meters, just as its name suggests. The emerald green crystal-clear sea and the landscape lined with palm trees offer an open feeling as if you were in a tropical resort. It has a sister beach affiliation with Waikiki Beach in Hawaii, and it is crowded with many bathers in summer. Fantastic illuminations are also held in winter, allowing enjoyment throughout the four seasons. Walking on the sandy beach is pleasant, and as a symbol of Wakayama's outdoor and relaxation,...

Wakayama
Sightseeing
Activities
Nature
Spring
Summer
Autumn
Winter

Mokubi Co., Ltd.

Mokubi Co., Ltd.

"Mokubi Co., Ltd." in Shingu City is a brand of lumber and furniture making that promotes the charm of Kishu timber (cedar and cypress) to the world. Skilled craftsmen create furniture and interior accessories full of warmth that maximize the personality of the wood. At the workshop, enveloped in the scent of wood, you can touch traditional Japanese woodworking techniques and the spirit of "monozukuri" (craftsmanship) that coexists with nature. Hand-fitting wooden cutlery and sundries are popular as souvenirs, and it is a place that discerning travelers who want to incorporate the quality of high-quality materials nurtured by Wakayama's rich...

Wakayama
Sightseeing
Activities
Spring
Summer
Autumn
Winter

Shingu Castle Ruins

Shingu Castle Ruins

Located on a small hill near the mouth of the Kumano River, the "Shingu Castle Ruins (Dankaku Castle)" is the site of the former residence of the Chief Retainer of the Kishu Domain. Currently, only the stone walls remain, but the beauty of those elaborately stacked walls tells of the high level of Japanese castle architecture technology. The biggest highlight is the view from the honmaru (inner bailey) ruins, where the panoramic view overlooking the leisurely flowing Kumano River and the Pacific Ocean beyond is spectacular. Loved by locals as a famous cherry blossom spot in spring, it serves as...

Wakayama
Sightseeing
Spring
Summer
Autumn
Winter

Koyazaka Slope

"Koyazaka" is part of the Kumano Kodo Iseji near Shingu City, and is an extremely precious route where you can walk while looking at the beautiful Pacific Ocean, which is rare for the ancient roads. Mossy cobblestones continue along the coastline, allowing for a historical stroll while listening to the sound of waves. Because the distance is short and flat, it is attractive for beginners and families to easily enjoy the Kumano Kodo atmosphere. This scenic slope, even sung about in the Manyoshu, harmonizes the blue sea with the silence of the ancient road, making it a photogenic spot perfect...

Wakayama
Sightseeing
Nature
Spring
Summer
Autumn
Winter

Ogumotorigoe Trail

Ogumotorigoe Trail

Known as the most difficult stage of the Kumano Kodo Nakahechi, "Ogumotorigoe" is a rugged yet beautiful route of about 14.5 km connecting Mt. Nachi and Koguchi. It requires physical strength due to the large elevation difference, but the view of the overlapping Kumano mountains from the pass reached is a spectacular sight praised as seeing "ten thousand mountains." With mossy cobblestones and ruins of Jizo halls where pilgrims rested, you can feel the weight of history and the energy of the deep forest with your whole body. The sense of accomplishment after walking the harsh path is exceptional, making...

Wakayama
Sightseeing
Nature
Spring
Summer
Autumn
Winter

Dorokyo Gorge

"Dorokyo Gorge," spanning Wakayama, Mie, and Nara prefectures, is one of Japan's leading scenic spots where the clear Kitayama River has carved out giant rocks. In particular, the area called "Doro-hatcho" is known for its mysterious scenery created by sheer cliffs and a deep cobalt blue water surface. Viewing the precipitous cliffs from the water while swaying in a traditional riverboat or a dynamic water jet boat is an overwhelming experience. The mountain colors reflecting in the water change with the seasons like a landscape painting, making it a moving spot for travelers who want to fully enjoy the beauty...

Wakayama
Sightseeing
Activities
Nature
Spring
Summer
Autumn
Winter

Kuwanoki-no-taki Falls

Kuwanoki-no-taki Falls

Nestled in the mountains of Shingu City, "Kuwanoki Falls" is a hidden masterpiece selected as one of Japan's Top 100 Waterfalls. After walking about 15 minutes along a riverside path from the parking lot, the view suddenly opens up to reveal a waterfall cascading beautifully like white silk down the rock face. The space, surrounded by deep green trees and mossy rocks, is enveloped in mystical silence as if time has stopped. It is not a flashy tourist spot, but in return, it has the luxury of being able to monopolize the inherent beauty of nature. It is a healing...

Wakayama
Nature
Spring
Summer
Autumn
Winter

Shingu City

Shingu City, located at the southeastern tip of Wakayama Prefecture, is a historic city at the intersection of river, sea, and mountains, which flourished as a temple town for Kumano Hayatama Taisha. Not only World Heritage shrines, but spots where you can deeply learn about Japanese history and faith while enjoying a city walk, such as "Kamikura Shrine" perched on a cliff and the "Shingu Castle Ruins," are concentrated here. Additionally, unique food cultures like whale dishes and the local specialty "Mehari-zushi" are attractive. The compact townscape is easy to stroll through, and it's an essential city for a pilgrimage...

Wakayama
Area Info
Sightseeing
Nature
Spring
Summer
Autumn
Winter

Kumano River

Registered as a "water pilgrimage route" in the World Heritage site, the "Kumano River" is a beautiful and grand river connecting mountains and the sea. In the past, imperial families and nobles went down the river by boat from Hongu to Shingu, aiming for sacred sites from the water. Today, tours in traditional wooden boats like the "Sandanbo" (three-sail boat) and "Kawafune-kudari" are popular. Moving along while gazing at the cliffs, deep greenery, and crystal-clear water surface on both banks is a luxurious experience, feeling Kumano's nature from the same perspective as ancient travelers. It's an activity unique to Wakayama...

Wakayama
Sightseeing
Activities
Nature
Spring
Summer
Autumn
Winter

Ueshiba Morihei Memorial Museum

Ueshiba Morihei Memorial Museum

The "Ueshiba Morihei Memorial Museum" in Tanabe City is a facility telling the life and spirit of the founder of the world-famous martial art "Aikido." Built in Tanabe, Morihei's birthplace, this memorial museum allows you to learn the philosophy of "harmony" and "peace" he wanted to convey through Aikido through precious photos, mementos, and videos. Exhibits have multilingual explanations, and martial arts enthusiasts visit from all over the world as a pilgrimage to a sacred site. It is an extremely interesting spot even for those who do not know Aikido, as it allows you to touch not only the techniques...

Wakayama
Sightseeing
Spring
Summer
Autumn
Winter

Kogumotorigoe Trail

Kogumotorigoe Trail

"Kogumotorigoe," part of the Kumano Kodo Nakahechi, is a beautiful trail of about 13km leading from Ukegawa to Koguchi. Although the slope is gentler compared to Ogumotorigoe, there is a spectacular viewpoint called "Hyakken-gura" along the way, where the panorama of overlapping Kumano mountains is breathtakingly beautiful. The road, with mossy cobblestones and quiet cedar forests, is filled with a silence suitable for calling it a "road of prayer." It is a route that can be enjoyed by everyone from beginners to intermediate hikers, and is confidently recommended for those who want to fully enjoy grand nature and the atmosphere...

Wakayama
Sightseeing
Spring
Summer
Autumn
Winter

Kawayu Onsen

"Kawayu Onsen" is a hot spring resort rare in the world where hot spring water gushes from the river bottom. If you dig the riverbed yourself, you can create your own private open-air bath, enjoying the unique experience of adjusting the temperature by mixing it with cold river water. Especially during the winter (December to February), the "Sennin-buro," a giant open-air bath created by damming part of the river, appears, allowing for a bathing experience full of openness under the vast sky. This adventurous way of enjoying nature is an extremely attractive activity for international travelers with a spirit of...

Wakayama
Sightseeing
Accommodation
Spring
Summer
Autumn
Winter

Tsuboyu Bath (Yunomine Onsen)

Tsuboyu Bath (Yunomine Onsen)

"Tsuboyu," the symbol of Yunomine Onsen, is the only hot spring facility registered as a World Heritage site that can actually be bathed in. This small hot spring, gushing from a crack in a natural rock, is a mystical spot said to change its color seven times a day. It's just large enough for two or three people at a time and is used on a 30-minute private rotation system. Legends remain of historical figures curing incurable diseases here, and it has been revered as a water of rebirth since ancient times. The luxurious experience of immersing yourself in a...

Wakayama
Sightseeing
Activities
Spring
Summer
Autumn
Winter

Yunomine Onsen

"Yunomine Onsen" is one of Japan's oldest hot spring resorts, discovered about 1,800 years ago, and still strongly retains the atmosphere of a good old spa. It has flourished since ancient times as a place for "Yugori" (purification) before worshipping at Kumano. Steam rises along the river flowing through the center of the town, and the "Yutsutsu," where you can boil hot spring eggs and vegetables, is popular with tourists. The quiet mountain landscape lined with simple wooden inns is truly a primal Japanese scene. It is an exceptional healing spot where you can immerse yourself in historic warm waters...

Wakayama
Sightseeing
Accommodation
Spring
Summer
Autumn
Winter

World Heritage Kumano Hongu Museum

World Heritage Kumano Hongu Museum

Located near Kumano Hongu Taisha, the "World Heritage Kumano Hongu Museum" is a comprehensive information facility where you can deeply learn about Kumano's history, culture, and nature. The building, using plenty of high-quality local Kishu timber, harmonizes beautifully with the surrounding landscape. Inside, the value of the World Heritage site and the history of pilgrimage are introduced in detail through high-definition videos and panel displays, with extensive explanations in English. It is ideal for checking routes before hiking or reflecting on the deep meaning after walking. The attached library space and rest area also serve as a peaceful base for...

Wakayama
Spring
Summer
Autumn
Winter

Takijiri-oji / Jugo-jinja Shrine

Takijiri-oji / Jugo-jinja Shrine

"Takijiri-oji" is an important base for the full-scale start of the "Nakahechi," the main route of the Kumano Kodo. This is considered the entrance to the sanctuary, and in the past, pilgrims purified themselves in the nearby river before entering the mountains. The "Jugo Shrine" within the precincts is wrapped in a quiet forest with old shrine buildings, creating a dignified air. In the mountain behind, there are giant rocks like the "Tainai-kuguri" used for training, allowing you to feel the breath of nature worship. It is a place where many hikers pray for travel safety, and a special spot...

Wakayama
Spring
Summer
Autumn
Winter

Kii-Tanabe Station

Kii-Tanabe Station

"Kii-Tanabe Station," the western gateway to the Kumano Kodo, is the first base for many travelers entering south-central Wakayama. In front of the station is the "Tanabe City Tourist Center," where support for international tourists, such as English maps and bus guides, is very extensive. The restaurant district called "Ajikoji" near the station is one of Wakayama's leading gourmet spots, wrapped in a warm atmosphere where locals and travelers mingle at night. The traditional wooden architecture of the townscape is also beautiful, making it an important landmark where you can feel this city's unique "spirit of hospitality" before boarding a...

Wakayama
Sightseeing
Spring
Summer
Autumn
Winter

Okutoro Park

"Okutoro Park," located in "Kitayama Village," Japan's only enclave, is a leisure spot where you can fully enjoy grand nature surrounded by the clear streams of the Kitayama River and deep mountains. Within the park, there are bases for sightseeing log rafting (Ikada-kudari), campgrounds, and tennis courts. Especially, "log rafting," which navigates rapids using traditional techniques, is attracting attention from overseas as a thrill-filled activity that can only be experienced here. Additionally, products using the phantom citrus "Jabara," which only grows wild in this village, are popular; it is ideal for those wanting to enjoy an active holiday and rare...

Wakayama
Sightseeing
Activities
Spring
Summer
Autumn
Winter

Tokei-jinja Shrine

Tokei-jinja Shrine

"Tokei Shrine" in Tanabe City is a historic shrine also registered as a World Heritage site. Its name originates from a legend during the Genpei War in the Heian period, where a cockfight was used to divine which side to support. Because it enshrines all the deities of the "Kumano Sanzan" (Hongu, Hayatama, Nachi), it is an important place in the pilgrimage where it is said that worshipping here yields the same merit as visiting all three shrines. The precincts are quiet and imbued with local faith, making it a power spot suitable for praying for victory or travel safety...

Wakayama
Sightseeing
Spring
Summer
Autumn
Winter

Nanbu Bairin (Plum Grove)

Nanbu Bairin (Plum Grove)

Praised as "A million trees at a glance, the fragrance reaches ten ri," "Nanbu Bairin" is a vast plum grove in Minabe Town, known as Japan's top plum production area. From early February to early March, the entire mountain is covered in white plum blossoms, and a sweet scent gently envelops the surroundings. The premium "Nanko-ume" harvested from this grove allows you to learn the roots of Umeboshi (pickled plums), a representative of Japanese food culture. It is a great stopover spot where you can enjoy the beautiful flowers signaling the arrival of spring and peaceful satoyama scenery while savoring...

Wakayama
Sightseeing
Nature
Spring

Kumano Hayatama Taisha Grand Shrine

Kumano Hayatama Taisha Grand Shrine

One of the Kumano Sanzan, "Kumano Hayatama Taisha" in Shingu City is a very beautiful shrine with its brilliant vermilion shrine buildings reflecting against the blue sky. Within the precincts is a giant sacred "Nagi Tree" estimated to be over 1,000 years old, which has long been a spiritual pillar for pilgrims praying for safety during their journey. While Hongu Taisha has a calm atmosphere, this shrine is filled with bright and gorgeous energy. Nearby is "Kamikura Shrine," where gods are said to have first descended; visiting both together allows you to deeply understand that Kumano's faith is directed towards...

Wakayama
Sightseeing
Spring
Summer
Autumn
Winter

Tanabe City

Tanabe City, the second-largest city in Wakayama Prefecture, is the junction where the "Nakahechi" and "Ohechi" routes of the World Heritage Kumano Kodo split, serving as the "starting point for pilgrimage." Around the station, there is a lively restaurant district called "Ajikoji," where you can enjoy fresh local seafood and local sake, making it ideal for preparing for or healing from your journey. There are also information centers for the World Heritage site and historic shrines like Tokei Shrine. It is a city that serves as a base camp for deeply enjoying your Wakayama trip, where urban convenience coexists with...

Wakayama
Area Info
Sightseeing
Activities
Nature
Spring
Summer
Autumn
Winter

Oyunohara

"Oyunohara," located a few minutes' walk from Kumano Hongu Taisha, is the sacred former site where the Hongu Taisha once stood. The giant Torii gate soaring at the entrance is about 34 meters high, known as the largest in Japan, and its overwhelming presence surprises visitors even from a distance. Although many of the shrine buildings were washed away by a flood in 1889, it is said that this land is still filled with strong energy, and many pilgrims visit it as a power spot. The landscape woven by the silence of the vast grounds, rich greenery, and the massive...

Wakayama
Sightseeing
Spring
Summer
Autumn
Winter