Best Visiting around Kumano Kodo, Shingu, Shirahama Spot List

Immerse yourself in the ambiance of Mount Nachi

View the world six meters below the water surface

Known as one of Japan’s top three beauty hot springs

The moss-covered stone path is the most beautiful on the Kumano Kodo

Soak in the hot springs while looking out through the pine forest at Shirahama Beach

The inspiration for Shirahama’s namesake

This observation deck lies at the southern tip of Shionomisaki. The seventh and eighth floors, which are 100 meters above sea level, are observation galleries, commanding a magnificent view of the Pacific Ocean. On a fine day, the vista even takes in the distant Mt. Nachi. On entering the deck, you'll receive a certificate for visiting the southernmost point of Japan's main island as proof of your visit to Shionomisaki. The grasslands at the tip of the cape, called “Boro no Shiba,” stretch out over 100,000 square meters. A restaurant there serves a variety of dishes using locally sourced ingredients.

The starting point for the World Heritage Kumano Kodo, offering services that help visitors travel with confidence.

A festival of fire unfolds at Nachi Falls

Located just one meter away from the sea, this is a public open-air bath that Shirahama Onsen is famous for. According to the ancient history books, such as the Nihonshoki (Chronicles of Japan) and the Manyoshu (Collection of Ten Thousand Leaves), Prince Arima visited this place about 1,350 years ago.

This open-air bath is right next to Shirahama Beach. Since you can wear a swimsuit while soaking in this pool-like bathtub, it's convenient to visit after a day at the beach. The hot water that springs from its own source is constantly replenished, ensuring the water is always fresh. During the non-summer seasons, it's used as a footbath instead.