Where is Wakayama?

Situated along the southwestern coast of Japan away from the frantic neon energy of the big cities, Wakayama is "off the beaten path" and not a destination on most visitors' itineraries; however this region is abundant in natural beauty and ancient history. Only a forty-five minute express train ride from the hustle and bustle of Osaka and a four hour bullet train ride from the mega metropolis of Tokyo, Wakayama offers a variety of experiences for tourists who want to experience rural Japan. Its mountain ranges, scenic coastline, Buddhist temples, and fishing villages are spectacular and show another more natural side to the Japanese lifestyle.

Wakayama

Wakayama City offers the visitor a gateway to Japan's rural countryside, away from the constant daily stresses of urban life. It is ideally situated as a base from which to explore the coastal towns but also the vibrant historical cities of Kyoto, Kobe, and Osaka which are all easily accessible for a day’s trip by train.

Koyasan

Tucked away in the sacred mountains and forests of Wakayama are the ancient pilgrimage trails of the Kumano Kodo and the venerated Buddhist retreat of Koyasan.

Shirahama

Situated on Japan’s largest peninsula, Wakayama stretches along 600 km of rugged coastline offering numerous opportunities for kayaking, fishing, snorkelling, scuba diving, and whale watching. Wakayama is also a centre for geothermal hot springs with hundreds of hot springs which have been attracting visitors since ancient times. Shirahama is a popular hot spring destination.

Arida

Famous for its fragrant oranges, persimmons, and pickled plums, the Wakayama region is known as the “Fruit Kingdom”, but it is also famous for it fresh seafood, natural beauty, and breathtaking vistas. Since ancient times, Arida has been known for its juicy mikan oranges.

Yuasa

Wakayama is an ancient source of many culinary specialties including the world’s most delicious soy sauce which originated hundreds of years ago in Yuasa.

Kii Katsuura

The Wakayama coastline is a treasure trove of scenic fishing villages known for their fresh seafood and seaweed. Radiating up from these coastal towns, into the forests and mountains beyond, are the pilgrimage routes of the Kumano Kodo dotted with ancient temples and shrines.