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Wakayama Prefecture is an attractive area with beautiful coastlines, hot springs, and UNESCO World Heritage sacred sites.
One of the highlights is Koyasan, a sacred place of Japanese Buddhism founded by the famous monk Kobo Daishi (Kukai). Visitors can enjoy the tranquil atmosphere of the Okunoin cemetery and experience staying at a temple lodging (shukubo), which offers a unique cultural experience. Another great spot is Nanki-Shirahama, a resort town on the Pacific Ocean, known for its stunning white-sand beaches and hot springs.
If you’re a fan of hot springs, a visit to Toretore Market is a must. You can enjoy fresh seafood while soaking in an outdoor bath, which is the perfect way to unwind. Additionally, in the Kumano region, you can explore the ancient pilgrimage route known as the Kumano Kodo, walking through mysterious forests as you visit the three sacred Kumano shrines: Kumano Hongu Taisha, Kumano Hayatama Taisha, and Kumano Nachi Taisha.
Why not experience the grandeur of Wakayama’s nature and history, and embark on a refreshing journey that will rejuvenate both body and soul?
PickUp Wakayama Events
Photo Credit: Wakayama Tourism Federation
Nachi Fire Festival The “Nachi Osen Festival” is said to have started during Emperor Jimmu’s eastern expedition and is held every year on July 14th. It is also known as the “Nachi Fire Festival” and is a sacred ritual where the gods return to the Nachi Great Waterfall. Twelve deities ride on sacred “fan palanquins” (Ogi Mikoshi) while being led by shrine members carrying torches. This ritual, known as “Mihon Gyōji,” involves holding massive torches weighing around 50kg to purify the sacred path with the power of fire. The grand fire procession, which is the highlight of the festival, is both dramatic and creates an almost mystical atmosphere. At the end of the festival, the palanquins return to the Nachi Taisha Shrine, marking the conclusion of the sacred event. Every year, many visitors come to witness this awe-inspiring and sacred spectacle.Image search for「那智の扇祭り」
A musical tour exploring Wakayama through songs.
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Discover and Enjoy Wakayama! A Guide to Must-Visit Spots & Topics. Photo Credit: Wakayama Tourism Federation Kumano Kodo (Wakayama Prefecture) The “Kumano Kodo” refers to a network of pilgrimage routes leading to the three Kumano Shrines (Kumano Hongu Taisha, Kumano Hayatama Taisha, and Kumano Nachi Taisha) located in Wakayama Prefecture. These routes are recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage site. Since the Heian period, the pilgrimage has been an important spiritual journey for both the royal family and common people, with many travelers making the trip in groups—so much so that it’s sometimes called the “Ant-like Kumano Pilgrimage.” The main routes include the Nakahechi, Iseji, Kohechi, Ohechi, and Kii paths, each offering a unique experience of nature and historical heritage.
Photo Credit: Wakayama Tourism Federation Mount Koya Koyasan, located in the northern part of Wakayama Prefecture, is a sacred site of the Shingon Buddhism, believed to have been established around 1,200 years ago by the famous monk Kobo Daishi (Kukai). In 2004, it was designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site under the name “Sacred Sites and Pilgrimage Routes in the Kii Mountain Range.” The area is home to numerous temples and cultural treasures. Key highlights include the Danjo Garan, Kongobuji Temple, and Okunoin. Visitors can also experience staying at a shukubo (temple lodging) and enjoy traditional Buddhist vegetarian cuisine, making it a popular destination for those seeking a unique cultural experience.
Photo Credit: Wakayama Tourism Federation Nachi Falls Nachi Falls” is a famous waterfall located in Nachikatsuura Town, Wakayama Prefecture, and it boasts the tallest drop in Japan, standing at an impressive 133 meters. It has been a sacred site for centuries. In the surrounding area, you’ll find historical temples and shrines like Kumano Nachi Taisha and Seiganto-ji, with stunning views of the waterfall and the three-story pagoda that continue to captivate visitors. Additionally, Nachi Falls is registered as a UNESCO World Heritage site as part of the “Sacred Sites and Pilgrimage Routes in the Kii Mountain Range.
Photo Credit: Wakayama Tourism Federation Shirahama Town Shirahama Town is famous for its historic “Shirahama Onsen,” which has been around for over 1,300 years. It’s also home to the stunning white sand beach of “Shirarahama” and the popular “Adventure World,” known for its pandas. In addition to these attractions, the town offers beautiful natural scenery, like the “Senjojiki” and “Sandanbeki” cliffs formed by sea erosion, and “Engetsu Island,” where you can catch a breathtaking sunset.
List of Inbound-Friendly Taxi Companies in Wakayama Wakayama Daiichi Kotsu Multilingual Interpretation Service | Taxi | Daiichi Kotsu Sangyo.
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