Wakayama is located on the southwestern side of the Kii Peninsula, Japan’s largest peninsula, with over 80% of its land covered in mountains. The prefecture is rich in natural hot springs with various mineral compositions, as well as delicacies from both the mountains and seas. You’ll also enjoy the amazing landscapes, from expansive mountain ranges to striking rock formations.

1. Koyasan
Koyasan lies in a mountain basin surrounded by 1,000-meter peaks. Founded by Buddhist monk Kobo Daishi (Kukai) as a training site for Shingon Buddhism, it was registered as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2004 as part of the Sacred Sites and Pilgrimage Routes in the Kii Mountain Range. The area is home to 117 temples, and the path to the sacred Okunoin, lined with towering cedar trees, exudes a deeply spiritual atmosphere.

2. Nachi Falls
Located in the middle reaches of the Nachi River, this is one of Japan’s three most famous waterfalls. It plunges straight down a sheer cliff, with a width of about 13 meters at the top and about 133 meters to the basin below. Because the water often splits into three streams as it falls, it is also called Misuji-no-Taki, or Triple-Stream Falls.

3. Kumano Kodo
This pilgrimage route connects the Kumano Sanzan, or the Three Grand Shrines of Kumano: Kumano Hongu Taisha, Kumano Hayatama Taisha, and Kumano Nachi Taisha. Like Mount Koya, it was designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2004 as part of the Sacred Sites and Pilgrimage Routes in the Kii Mountain Range. There are also forest trekking trails along the route.

Wakayama boasts the highest number of hot springs in the Kansai Region, and is home to many famous onsen resorts, including Nanki-Shirahama, Nanki-Katsuura, Kawayu, and Ryujin.

1. Nanki-Shirahama Onsen
This seaside hot spring is considered one of Japan’s three oldest. The name Nanki-Shirahama Onsen is a reference to the seven hot springs bubbling up along the coast of the Yuzaki Peninsula. One of them is Saki-no-Yu, located right on the coast at nearly the same level as the sea.

2. Ryujin Onsen
This hot spring village sits along the Hidaka River and is known for its sodium bicarbonate-rich waters, said to leave your skin feeling silky smooth. The mountain gorge is lined with traditional inns, giving the area a remote, hidden retreat feel.

3. Yunomine Onsen
This historic hot spring is located in a post town of the World Heritage listed Kumano Kodo. Said to be Japan’s oldest hot spring with 1,800 years of history, pilgrims would stop here to rest and purify themselves during their Kumano journey. Tsubo-yu, a natural rock bath and an official part of the pilgrimage route’s World Heritage sites, is a hot spring in which the water’s color is said to change up to seven times a day!

4. Nanki-katsuura Onsen
This coastal hot spring resort in Nachikatsuura Town boasts 177 hot spring sources, the highest in Wakayama as of March 2018. It includes Katsuura Onsen, which faces the sea, and Yukawa Onsen near Lake Yukashi-gata. The area also serves as a convenient base for visiting Nachisan, Nachi Falls, and the Kumano Sanzan shrines.

Wakayama is filled with historically and culturally significant places, from old towns and historic architecture to pilgrimage routes recognized as UNESCO World Heritage sites.

1. Kumano Sanzan
Kumano Sanzan refers to the Three Grand Shrines in southern Wakayama: Kumano Hongu Taisha, Kumano Hayatama Taisha, and Kumano Nachi Taisha. Each shrine is about 20-40 km apart and connected by the Kumano Kodo routes. These shrines were revered as sacred centers of Jodo Buddhism, and were visited by the common folk during the Edo Period as part of the Kumano pilgrimage.

2. Koyasan
Founded by Kobo Daishi (Kukai), Koyasan, or Mount Koya, is a spiritual center for Shingon Buddhism. At an altitude of about 900 meters, it is surrounded by mountains and is home to 117 temples, around 50 of which offer shojin ryori (Buddhist vegetarian cuisine), overnight stays, and even Buddhist training experiences!

3. Wakayama Castle
Wakayama Castle sits atop Mt. Torafusu and is known for its symbolic white three-tiered keep. It was originally built by order of Toyotomi Hideyoshi for his younger brother Hidenaga. Today, the castle keep houses a museum that displays valuable artifacts related to the Tokugawa family.

Wakayama is rich in both seafood and mountain delicacies, including a number of unique local dishes like Wakayama ramen and even whale dishes! Known historically as the Land of Trees, its forests and mountains provide pure water, which also contributes to its recognition as a producer of quality sake.

1. Seafood
Nachikatsuura Tuna
Katsuura Port is one of the top tuna fishing sites in Japan. Tuna landed nearby is kept at around -1°C until it arrives at the port to maintain peak freshness. Whether it’s chutoro, akami, or negitoro topping your rice bowl, expect nothing but the freshest slices!

Whale Dishes
Taiji Town in southern Wakayama is one of Japan’s leading whaling towns. While whale meat can be served in a variety of ways, like katsu and tatsuta-age, we recommend trying the sashimi, served as thin slices of meat with skin. You can try these dishes at restaurants such as Michi-no-Eki Taiji.

2. Mountain Delicacies & Traditional Dishes
Mehari-zushi
This is a large rice ball wrapped in salted takana (mustard greens). Traditionally eaten by fishermen and forestry workers in southern Wakayama during work breaks, common fillings include takana stems, bonito flakes, and pickled plum.

Cha-gayu
Cha-gayu is a rice porridge cooked in hojicha or bancha (roasted or coarse tea), unlike your average white rice porridge made with water. It was created as a way to make a satisfying meal with just a small amount of rice. In Wakayama, it’s sometimes known as “okaisan.”

Kaki-no-ha-zushi
Kaki-no-ha-zushi (persimmon leaf sushi) is a dish of sushi rice topped with various ingredients and wrapped in autumn-colored persimmon leaves. These leaves contain tannins with antibacterial and antioxidant properties, which help preserve the sushi. Common ingredients include mackerel and shrimp from the Kumano Sea, as well as shiitake mushrooms, fish cakes, fried tofu, and egg.

3. Wakayama Sake
・KID by Heiwa Shuzo (Kainan City): A fruity aroma that's easy to drink, even for sake newbies.

・Kuroushi by Nate Shuzohuzo (Wakayama City): An elegant fragrance with a deep flavor.
・Minakata by Sekaiitto (Wakayama City): A clean finish with a rich rice flavor.

4. Umeshu
Wakayama is also famous for umeshu (plum wine), thanks to its status as a leading plum-producing region. Varieties range from sweet and rich to sparkling.

If you're traveling from Tokyo to Wakayama, you have three travel options: by plane, by train, or by highway bus. For those traveling by bullet train, note that there is no shinkansen station in Wakayama, so you’ll have to ride to Shin-Osaka Station in Osaka and transfer there. For highway buses, there are buses that will take you directly to Wakayama Station, and those that will take you to Osaka for a transfer.

By Train:
・From Tokyo Station, take Nozomi Shinkansen to Shin-Osaka Station. From there, transfer to JR Limited Express Kuroshio Line, and ride to Wakayama Station.
・Travel time: Approx. 3 hr. 32 min.
・Fare: Approx. 16,280 yen (one way, non-reserved seat)

By Plane:
・Fly from Haneda Airport to Nanki-Shirahama Airport (Kumano-Shirahama Resort Airport).
・Travel time: Approx. 1 hr 10 min
・Fare: Starting at approx. 26,115 yen

By Overnight Bus:
・Ride from Tokyo Station Kajibashi Parking Lot to JR Wakayama Station, West Exit (via Willer Express Bus)
・Travel time: Approx. 9 hr 40 min
・Fare: Approx. 7,800 yen

To Wakayama Station
By Train:
・From Shin-Osaka Station, take the JR Limited Express Kuroshio to Wakayama Station.
・Travel time: Approx. 1 hr 2 min
・Fare: Approx. 2,830 yen

To Koyasan Station
By Train:
・From Osaka Station, take JR Yamatoji Rapid Line to Shin-Imamiya Station. From there, transfer to Nankai Limited Express Koya, and ride to Gokurakubashi Station. Finally, take the Nankai Koyasan Cable to Koyasan Station.
・Travel time: Approx. 1 hr 53 min
・Fare: Approx. 2,460 yen

To Shirahama Station
By Train:
・From Shin-Osaka Station, take JR Limited Express Kuroshio to Shirahama Station.
・Travel time: Approx. 2 hr 28 min
・Fare: Approx. 5,940 yen

To Wakayama Station
By Train:
・From Nanki-Shirahama Airport, take the Meiko Bus to Shirahama Station. From there, take the JR Limited Express Kuroshio to Wakayama Station.
・Travel time: Approx. 1 hr 50 min
・Fare: Approx. 4,530 yen

By Bus:
・From Nanki-Shirahama Airport, take the Meiko Bus to JR Shirahama Station.
・Travel time: Approx. 20 min
・Fare: Approx. 360 yen

・From Nanki-Shirahama Airport, take the Meiko Express Kumano Kodo No. 3 Bus, and ride to Kumano Taisha.
・Travel time: Approx. 2 hr 20 min
・Fare: Approx. 2,500 yen

Sunny days are comfortable and ideal for sightseeing. However, weather can indeed vary by area. Higher elevations like Koyasan and Ryujin Onsen can drop to 5–10°C (41–50°F) in the mornings and evenings.

March highs average around 14°C (57°F), with lows around 6.1°C (43°F). Mornings and evenings tend to be chilly, but by late March, sunny days can be pleasantly warm. For outdoor sightseeing between early to mid-March, we recommend wearing a winter coat, while in late March, you can usually get away with a lighter jacket or coat. We also recommend layering underneath with a cardigan to make it easier to adjust.

April is significantly warmer than March, with average highs of 21.6°C (71°F) and lows of 13.8°C (57°F), making it the best season for touristing. In city areas, cherry blossoms reach full bloom between late March and early April, peaking around mid-April at higher altitudes like Koyasan. The Kumanozakura along the Kumano Kodo are early bloomers and usually reach full bloom by mid-to-late March. As far as the weather goes, days are usually warm enough to leave your coat behind, but we still recommend a light jacket or cardigan for cooler mornings and evenings.

May brings lush green landscapes and stable temperatures, with highs averaging 23.8°C (75°F) and lows around 14.9°C (59°F), and clear, sunny days with air so crisp you’ll taste it in every deep breath. The low humidity of spring, especially around coastal areas like Shirahama, Katsuura, and Cape Shionomisaki, makes for ideal sightseeing. And while short sleeves are usually enough during the day, we recommend a cardigan or light jacket just in case.

Wakayama summers are perfect for tropical beaches and cool mountain escapes. While the climate varies by region, muggy, high humidity days are common and can feel pretty uncomfortable if you're not used to it. From July to August, staying hydrated and wearing a hat and sunglasses is a must.

In June, high temps average 27.6°C (82°F) with lows around 20.3°C (68°F). Rain is more frequent and the humidity is higher, making for some sticky weather, while coastal areas are usually more comfortable thanks to the sea breeze. And while you’ll be fine with short sleeves from mid-June, it’s a good idea to bring a light jacket on rainy days.

July sees high temperatures of around 32.9°C (91°F) and lows of 26.2°C (79°F), and once rainy season ends around mid-to-late July, summer kicks into full gear with lots of sunny days. However, sudden downpours can still occur, so stay alert. Short sleeves are still best, and breathable fabrics like linen are recommended. And don’t forget sun protection like hats, parasols, and sunglasses!

In August, average highs reach around 34.9°C (95°F) with lows of about 26.6°C (80°F). Heatwaves are common, and tropical nights, where temperatures don't dip below 25°C (77°F), are frequent. Southern areas like Shirahama and Kushimoto can feel hotter than the numbers suggest, while mountain regions like Koyasan may offer some relief. From August to September, southern coastal areas like Shirahama, Kushimoto, and Nachikatsuura are in the typhoon path, so be sure to check the weather forecast often if traveling around this time. Mountain regions like Koyasan and Kumano Kodo can also experience landslides or closures due to storms.

While September can still be hot, the weather does get gradually cooler, making this a great season for sightseeing. It’s also the perfect time to enjoy fall foliage and hot springs.

September brings average highs of 32.2°C (90°F) and lows of 24.8°C (77°F). The heat often lingers into the month, so T-shirts and shorts are still recommended. However, the sun is still strong, so don’t forget your hat and sunscreen! It’s also still typhoon season at this time, so be sure to check the weather forecast before heading out.

October sees average highs of 25.9°C (79°F) and lows of 18.4°C (65°F), with the weather becoming noticeably cooler, and plenty of clear, pleasant days with crisp, dry air. While you still won’t see much fall foliage in the cities yet, it gradually starts showing in mountain areas like Koyasan and Kumano Kodo. Long sleeves and pants are recommended, along with a cardigan you can layer as needed.

In November, average highs reach around 19.1°C (66°F) with lows around 11.6°C (53°F). Mornings and evenings get noticeably chillier, though daytime weather is still quite comfortable in the early part of the month. The foliage also peaks in areas like Koyasan, Ryujin Onsen, and Kumano Kodo. If you're heading to the mountains, be sure to pack sweaters, long pants, and a thick coat or jacket. In late November, even the non-mountain areas start to get pretty cold, so we recommend having a sweater, scarf, and heavy outerwear on hand.

Winter weather varies by region, with cold mountain areas that see occasional snowfall, and southern coastal areas hardly see any snow at all.

December’s average highs reach around 12.4°C (54°F) with lows of about 5.1°C (41°F). Daytime temperatures may still feel comfortable in the beginning of the month, although mornings and evenings in the mountains are usually rather cold, with a chance of snow and icy roads. But at this time, snow may also transform Koyasan into a beautiful winter landscape! Be sure to dress warm with a down or wool coat, and bring your winter essentials like gloves, scarves, hats, heat packs, and thermal wear.

January is typically the coldest month of the year, with average highs of 11.1°C (52°F) and lows of 3.6°C (38°F). Coastal areas may sometimes warm up on sunny days, but mornings and evenings are still cold. In mountain areas like Koyasan, stay alert of potential snow and icy roads.

February sees average highs of 12.5°C (55°F) and lows of 5.5°C (42°F), and while the cold weather continues, hints of spring start to appear around late February. In Minabe Town, home to one of Japan’s largest plum groves, Minabe Bairin, the plum blossoms start to bloom. It’s also the best season to enjoy kue hotpots, made with the rare fish known as kue, or longtooth grouper. There’s also Kishu citrus fruits like mikan and ponkan.

Located in northern Wakayama, this is the prefecture’s capital and liveliest city. Once a castle town, it’s now home to popular ramen shops specializing in local Wakayama ramen. Just a short trip away are attractions like Kishi Station, known for its famous feline stationmaster, and the uninhabited island of Tomogashima.

This local landmark features a white three-tiered keep, with expansive, panoramic views from the top of the city, the surrounding mountains, and the Kii Channel.

About 32 minutes from JR Wakayama Station via the Wakayama Electric Railway, this station is most well-known for its famous feline stationmaster, Nitama, who even wears an official cap. You can also spot her at the nearby Idakiso Station. Keep an eye out for themed trains like the Tama Train, designed with cat whiskers, or the strawberry-themed Ichigo Train, inspired by the local produce.

With over 1,200 years of history, Koyasan is a sacred site of Shingon Buddhism. Visitors can stay in temple lodgings, try shojin ryori (Buddhist vegetarian cuisine), and even take part in spiritual experiences unique to the area.

The head temple of the Shingon sect, located at the heart of Koyasan, this temple features the Grand Hall, with sliding doors painted with pines and cranes, and Banryutei, Japan’s largest 2,340-square-meter rock garden.

This is the resting place of Kobo Daishi (Kukai), founder of Shingon Buddhism. The 2-km approach is lined with over 200,000 tombstones and monuments, including memorials to famous warlords like Takeda Shingen, Oda Nobunaga, and Uesugi Kenshin.

Shirahama is a tropical coastal area known for its bright blue sea and beautiful beaches. It’s home to Nanki-Shirahama Onsen, one of Japan’s oldest hot springs, and the popular Adventure World zoological park. Other highlights include fresh seafood and scenic ocean views.

A hot spring town since the Asuka and Nara periods, bathhouses and traditional inns line the coastal area.

Shirahama is a white-sand beach stretching about 620 meters, and the area’s namesake. In the summer, it’s a popular place for swimming and beach sports, complete with cafes and restaurants with ocean views.

Named for the rounded cave at its center, Engetsu Island is small island floating in the sea, measuring about 25 meters high, 130 meters long (north-south), and 35 meters wide (east-west). The contrast between the blue ocean, white cliffs, and green trees is stunning by day, with incredible sunset views in the evening.

A dramatic stretch of steep cliffs running about 2 kilometers from north to south. From the observation deck, you can look down from a height of 50–60 meters to the waves crashing against the rocks below. We highly recommend visiting at sunset!

A theme park that combines a zoo, an aquarium, and an amusement park, Adventure World is especially famous for its pandas! It’s a popular spot for families and couples.

(Note: Pandas are scheduled to be returned to China in late June 2025.)

This pilgrimage trail connects the sacred sites of the Kumano Sanzan, including the Three Grand Shrines: Kumano Hongu Taisha, Kumano Hayatama Taisha, and Kumano Nachi Taisha. Nearby to Kumano Hongu Taisha is another spot worth visiting called Kumano Hongu Onsenkyo, a group of three hot springs: Yunomine Onsen, Kawayu Onsen, and Watarase Onsen.

Amongst the various routes of the Kumano Kodo, Nakahechi is the most commonly traveled. It leads from Tanabe into the mountains towards Kumano Hongu Taisha, passing through old villages and scenic nature along the way.

The final stretch of the Nakahechi route, Daimon-zaka a spiritual area surrounded by forest, marked by a pair of towering cedar trees over 800 years old.

This relatively flat path is ideal for beginners, and runs from Kii-Katsuura to Kumano Nachi Taisha, offering stunning coastal views and natural scenery along the way.

One of Japan’s three most famous waterfalls, Nachi Falls is the tallest single-level waterfall in Japan, with a 133-meter drop. Both the Nachi Taisha shrine and waterfall are World Heritage Sites, and from the nearby Takimidai observation deck, you can witness its powerful presence up close.

Nachikatsuura, a coastal gem on the Kii Peninsula, is renowned for its UNESCO World Heritage-listed Kumano Nachi Taisha Shrine and the majestic 133-meter Nachi Falls, Japan’s tallest single-drop waterfall, both integral to the sacred Kumano Kodo pilgrimage routes. The town’s bustling fishing port, one of Japan’s top sources of fresh tuna, hosts lively early-morning tuna auctions and offers exceptional seafood dining. Visitors can relax in the area’s abundant hot springs, including unique cave baths at Hotel Urashima, overlooking the Pacific Ocean. Scenic hiking trails, such as Daimon-zaka with its ancient cedar-lined stone paths, provide breathtaking views and a connection to nature. Cultural festivals, like the Nachi Fire Festival on July 14, showcase the region’s rich heritage with dramatic fire rituals.

Located right by the sea, this hot springs area has a variety of interesting inns, including one accessible by shuttle boat and another known for having a bath inside a cave where the spring water bubbles up directly from the ground!

A ria coastline area with peninsulas and capes, the town of Taiji has long been known for whaling. It’s also home to attractions where visitors can interact with whales and dolphins up close.

Wakayama ramen comes in two types: one with a mellow pork-and-soy sauce base, and another with a lighter yet richer soy sauce broth. It’s traditionally topped with chashu pork, bamboo shoots, and fish cakes, with straight, thin, and firm noodles.

Wakayama is a top producer of ume (Japanese plums), and Kishu umeboshi (dried plums) are particularly prized for their perfect balance of tartness and salt. While these umeboshi go especially well with plain rice, plum-based dishes, sweets, and even soft serve ice creams are also quite popular!

Thanks to its mild climate, Wakayama is also famous for mikan farming. The region grows other citrus fruits beyond mikan, too, including hassaku and dekopon. During mikan season, you’ll find lots of ways to enjoy these fruit, including in juices, jellies, and of course, simply as fruit.

Katsuura Fishing Port is one of Japan’s leading sources of fresh tuna. In addition to sashimi and sushi, you can enjoy unique dishes like chutoro katsu-don (tuna rice bowls) and marugo ishiyaki yukke (tuna yukhoe). You’ll find lots of restaurants near Kii-Katsuura Station offering these delicious tuna dishes.

Wakayama is also known for sweets made with Nanko ume, the highest-quality variety of plum. Popular treats include ume cakes, umeshu sweets, and jam.

Wakayama ramen’s signature soy-based soup and medium-thick noodles are also available as instant ramen, which also make perfect souvenirs. Famous local shops like Ide Shoten and Marutaya offer their own take-home versions so you can bring the taste of Wakayama back home with you!

Nanko ume, a specialty Wakayama plum, is a popular souvenir sweets. Ume cakes, ume jellies, and other confections featuring their sweet-and-tart flavors make great gifts.

When it comes to umeboshi, Wakayama is the place to be. The Nanko ume variety, considered the finest, is particularly popular for its perfect balance of tartness and salt. There’s also a wide range of processed plum products, including umeshu and jam.

Wakayama is also famous for mikan, particularly the Arita variety, known for its balance of sweet and tart. Mikan juices and jellies also make great souvenirs!

Produced mainly in the Kuroe area of northwestern Kainan City, this elegant lacquerware includes bowls and plates which make perfect gifts for their refined craftsmanship and high-quality feel.

Blessed with both sea and mountain landscapes, Wakayama offers a wide variety of attractions, from seaside hot spring resorts to World Heritage sites like Mt. Koya and the Kumano Kodo pilgrimage trails. There’s even the all-in-one zoo, aquarium, and amusement park, Adventure World! Whether you love the seas, mountains, or idyllic towns, Wakayama has it all, making it the perfect place for a trip!

(*Information in article as of March 2025. Please see official websites for the latest updates and information.)