Shirahama

Very much the seaside town, Shirahama is an appealing mix of pristine white beaches, hot springs, fishing docks, interesting rock formations, touristy shops, and fabulous seafood.

Shirahama, located on the south coast of Wakayama, is a relaxing year round resort. Not only does it have one of the best beaches in Japan with its endless array of surfing, sailing, snorkelling, and fishing activities, but it also has an abundance of natural attractions, namely Engitsu Island, Senjo-jiki Rock Formation, and Sandenbeki Cliffs.

Shirahama is also famous for its ancient Sakinoyu Onsen - one of the oldest in Japan - as well as numerous other hotel hot springs; so it's a wonderful chance to experience the onsen lifestyle. Other things to do include Adventure World, if you have small children, and Tore Tore Ichiba Market, if you want to eat melt-in-your-mouth tuna. Accommodation can range between glitzy resort hotels with luxurious hot springs and kaiseki cuisine to faded family favourites.

Local Attractions: 

Beaches

One of the best beaches in Japan, Shirahama's beach is made from dazzling white quartz sand imported from Australia. The ocean swimming season is from late July to end of August and is  extremely busy with families and young people who throng to the beach; a patch of sand can be difficult to get if you don't arrive early! Water is cold at other times of the year. 

During the summer months, Shirahama celebrates various festivities including a Sandcastle Competition, Fireworks Display, and Lantern Festival. 

Engetsudo Island

Shirahama's stunning landmark looks like a stone arch on the ocean. At sunset, a patient photographer can capture the blood orange rays of the setting sun shining through the archway. 

Senjo-jiki Rock Formation

Eroded by thousands of years of Pacific Ocean waves crashing onto the mainland, this enormous rock formation is named "1000 tatami mats" because of its beige coloured hues and striations. 

Cafe and souvenir shop are located close by.

Sandanbeki Cliffs and Caves

These are treacherous cliffs, 50 metres high, that stretch for 2 km. As there have been a number of suicides from these cliffs in the past, there are warning signs with contact numbers on them that people can call if they are feeling desperate enough to end their lives. Visitors can take an elevator down to the caves beneath to see where pirates of long ago used to hide their smuggled cargo. (daily from 8:00-5:00)

Sakinoyu Onsen

One of the oldest and most celebrated natural onsens (hot springs) in Japan, this onsen has been enjoyed by nobility, samurai, pilgrims and common folk for over 1300 years. As you soak in the stone pools filled with natural mineral water, waves from the Pacific Ocean sometimes crash over the rocks and into the pools making it a once-in-a-lifetime bathing experience. Male and female bathers are separated by a wooden wall; the blue entrance is for men while the red one is for women. 

Adventure World  

Aside from its pristine beach, Shirahama's prime attraction for families is Adventure World, famous for its giant pandas. Apparently this zoo has one of the best breeding programs for pandas outside of China. All manner of cute panda souvenirs and panda themed snacks can be bought in town. 

Tore Tore Ichiba Market  

This bustling Marketplace near the train station offers fresh seafood, fruit, vegetables, culinary samples and souvenirs such as different types of seaweed, sauces made from yuzu (citrus) and umeboshi (pickled plum), freshly baked crackers, boxed cakes and cookies, and a selection of sake.  

Visitors line up to watch the daily Tuna Cutting demonstration which is fun to watch and delicious to sample. The market place has a public BBQ area where visitors can grill any freshly bought seafood.  There are also various fresh food stalls where you can buy sushi, ramen, tempura, and other popular snacks and meals.

Accommodation:

1. Hotel Musashi

Popular Japanese style accommodation with public onsen (public baths) - cotton yukata and geta sandals available for rental - very convenient location as it is close to the main beach and souvenir shops - 20 minute drive from JR Train Station.

2. Auberge de South Terrace

Lovely boutique style hotel perched on the hill - beautiful view of the ocean and sunset - fine dining with emphasis on traditional Japanese or French cuisine - public onsen available - European beds or Japanese futons available -15 minute walk to main beach area or 10 minute walk to Senjo-jiki Rock Formation.

3. Infinito Hotel and Spa

Luxury accommodation located on the hilltop of Shirahama with magnificent views of Pacific Ocean. Japanese and Western style rooms available, some with private indoor or outdoor onsens. Swimming pool and tennis court on site. Five minute drive to main attractions. 20 minute walk to the beach. Fine dining