50 Things to Do in Wakayama
Wakayama is the prefecture west of Osaka and bordering the Pacific Ocean. There's so many spiritual spots that you can visit, from temples, shrines, pilgrimage roads, and hot springs. Here are 50 recommended spots in Wakayama that you can visit to add historical and natural charm to your trip.
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41. Tanabe Onsen - Hotel Harvest Nanki-Tanabe (Tanabe-shi)
This large resort hotel with 187 rooms sitting on the shore of Tanabe Bay boasts its own private onsen. On the grounds the sodium bicarbonate springs well up and you can bathe in it for beautiful skin. There is also a large outdoor bath, so you can soak while gazing at the blue seas.
42. Kushimoto Underwater Park (Kushimoto-cho, Higashimuro-gun)
This complex was made so that you can truly enjoy the bounties of the ocean, and includes an aquarium, an observation tower in the middle of the sea, a sightseeing boat, diving facilities, and more. There are more than 120 varieties of sea creatures in the sea nearby, and that led to the creation of this, Japan's very first sea park. There are different programs in place that people of all ages can enjoy.
43. Saikazaki (Wakayama-shi)
Saikazaki, also known as Okuwaka-ura, is a port city and fishing harbor that is famous for its natural picturesque beach. It's also a fishing spot that fishing maniacs can't get enough of. Some of the must-see spots of Saikazaki are the Saikazaki Lighthouse and Bandoko Yuuen Park. You can see even more of the beautiful scenery from the lighthouse.
44. Wakaura Tenmangu (Wakayama-shi)
Wakaura Tenmangu is famous for housing the god of learning, and many students come to pray for good results on their school entrance exams here. The two-storied gate is six feet tall, making it one of the biggest. The main shrine is an important national cultural artifact that is painted both inside and outside in beautiful, rich colors.
45. Senjojiki (Shirahama-cho, Nishimuro-gun)
Senjojiki is large overlapping bedrock over a wide rock that almost looks like tatami. The rough waves crashing into shore have caused erosion that has made it into this magnificent site. The rocks have created a natural staircase that you can walk on. It's one of Wakayama's most famous sightseeing spots. However, while you'll find a lot of graffiti on the rock itself, please don't add to it!
46. Totsui Limestone Cave (Yura-cho, Hidaka-gun)
This limestone cave is from the Permian period, 250 million years ago. While it's relatively small at only 100m in length, this small cave will allow you to feel like a true explore. The "Heaven's Curtain" in the stalactite room is a must-see. In the summer the area becomes a resort, and it's a perfect well-kept-secret place.
47. Ki no Matsushima (Nachikatsuura, Higashimuro-gun)
The scenic Ki no Matsushima is near Nachikatsuura and you can take a pleasure cruise around the island. The island has a diameter of 17km and has a beautiful coast made of verdant nature. There are many islands of different sizes dotting the azure seas, including Rakudashima (Camel Island) and Raionshima (Lion Island). Many of them have grottos and caves, and you can gaze at them as you pass by on the boat. It's a perfect addition to your memories of the trip!
48. The Museum of Modern Art, Wakayama (Wakayama-shi)
The Museum of Modern Art, Wakayama, is situated next to Wakayama Castle, and features art primarily related to Wakayama. The theme of the main exhibit is "Artists related to Wakayama and modern art." This is an interesting place for people who are not just interested in Japanese modern art, but also historical architecture.
49. Burakuri-cho (Wakayama-shi)
This is the biggest shopping arcade in Wakayama. In all directions it's actually 6 shopping arcades put together. You can definitely feel the hustle and bustle during its busiest hours. Even today, while there aren't many, there are still shops that have been around for decades. You should stop by while taking a walk around Wakayama-shi and see what treasures you find.
50. Kishuu Toshougu (Wakayama-shi)
This shrine was built in 1621. When you pass the road approaching the shrine, you'll find the 108 step staircase called the Samuraizaka, and if you climb it you'll see the bright vermilion-lacquered tower gate. Every year in May since the main shrine was built, they hold the Waka Matsuri festival in which they put together traditional arts that have been handed down through Wakayama's history.
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The information in this article is accurate at the time of publication.
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