Spots List | V-Trip Japan

Kumano Kodo Ohechi Hotokezaka

"Hotokezaka," part of the Kumano Kodo Ohechi, is a route leads from Shirahama Town to Susami Town with the charm of a coastal panorama. While origins of the name vary, mossy cobblestones and old Jizo statues remain along the way, allowing you to feel the prayer footprints of former pilgrims. The biggest highlight of this route is the magnificent view of the Pacific Ocean spreading out the moment you emerge from the mountain path. You can overlook the rough yet beautiful coastline called "Karekinada," simultaneously tasting the ancient road's silence and the sea's openness. It is an atmospheric road ideal...

Wakayama
Sightseeing
Nature
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Wakayama

Mt. Hokketozan

"Hokketozan," located on the border of Kamitonda and Shirahama towns, is a hidden spot where rich nature and historical faith intersect. Historical stone towers and temples supported by local faith stand quietly in the mountains, showing how much the area has been cherished by local people since ancient times. It is also familiar as a hiking course, and walking through the trees provides seasonal mountain colors and clear air to heal travelers. There are no flashy tourist facilities, but what exists there is "Japan's inherent prayer and nature." It is a place suitable for those who want to stray slightly...

Wakayama
Nature
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Wakayama

Haso-no-taki Falls

"Haso-no-taki Waterfall," located on a tributary of the Hiki River in the mountains of Shirahama Town, is a hidden masterpiece selected as one of Japan's Top 100 Waterfalls. The sight of the waterfall with a drop of about 22 meters elegantly cascading down multiple rock faces radiates a quiet beauty that leaves you speechless, especially combined with the deep green surroundings. As it is not heavily commercialized for tourism, you can be enveloped in the original sounds of nature and clear air, obtaining deep physical and mental relaxation. The journey along the way also allows for enjoyment of Wakayama's rich...

Wakayama
Nature
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Wakayama

Minakata Kumagusu Museum

The "Minakata Kumagusu Museum" on Mt. Bansho in Shirahama tells the life and achievements of the rare genius Minakata Kumagusu, a world-class naturalist and folklorist. At this museum surrounded by the lush forest he loved, you can touch his amazing intellect and passion for nature conservation through vast slime mold specimens, handwritten transcripts, and mementos. The panorama of Shirahama's sea from the rooftop observation deck is also outstanding. His philosophy as a pioneer of ecology resonates with modern sustainability, making it a place definitely worth visiting for international travelers seeking intellectual stimulation.

Wakayama
Sightseeing
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Wakayama

Shirahama Energy Land

Located right next to Shirarahama, "Shirahama Energy Land" is an experiential entertainment facility themed on "people and nature's energy." It is packed with attractions to stimulate curiosity for children and adults alike, such as learning about the Earth's origins, a "Trick Art House" using human optical illusions, and athletic mazes. In particular, the "Mystery Zone," where gravity feels distorted, is popular for its photogenic and mysterious experiences. As you can learn about natural science and the importance of energy while playing, it is a recommended spot for families and travelers who want to enjoy Japan's unique theme parks.

Wakayama
Sightseeing
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Wakayama

Fisherman’s Wharf Shirahama

"Fisherman's Wharf Shirahama" is a complex facility filled with ocean charm, operated by the fishermen of Shirahama. The market on the first floor sells morning-caught fresh fish and local specialties, while the restaurants on the second floor and rooftop offer fresh seafood, authentic Italian cuisine, and BBQ while overlooking the beautiful sea. Furthermore, it serves as a base for marine activities such as diving, fishing, and sunset cruises, allowing for multifaceted enjoyment of Wakayama's sea. It is an ideal place for travelers who want to spend active and luxurious time feeling the sea breeze, where local fishing culture and modern...

Wakayama
Sightseeing
Food
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Wakayama

Toretore Market

"Toretore Market Nanki-Shirahama" is one of the largest seafood markets in Western Japan. Operated by the local Katata Fishery Cooperative, it is packed with fresh raw tuna sent directly from Katsuura Port and seafood caught in the nearby waters of Wakayama. The highlight is the "Tuna Dissection Show" held daily, where you can watch skilled professional techniques up close and enjoy the luxury of tasting freshly sliced sashimi on the spot. There is also a BBQ corner where you can grill and eat ingredients bought in the market. From souvenir hunting to gourmet experiences, it is a lively food park...

Wakayama
Sightseeing
Food
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Wakayama

Saki-no-yu Onsen

"Saki-no-yu" in Shirahama Onsen is one of Japan's oldest open-air baths, recorded in the "Manyoshu" with a history of over 1,300 years. Its greatest feature is that the bathtub is built directly into the rocky area where the rough waves of the Pacific Ocean crash. It is so close to the sea that sea spray may hit your face, and you can feel the Earth's energy with your whole body in an overwhelming sense of openness. Immersing yourself in high-quality sulfur-scented springs while listening to the sound of waves unchanged since the Manyo era is the ultimate Japanese relaxation. It...

Wakayama
Activities
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Wakayama

Sandanbeki Cliffs

"Sandanbeki" is a scenic spot boasting overwhelming power, with a precipitous cliff about 50 meters high continuing for about 2 km. The sight of the Pacific Ocean's rough waves smashing against the rock face as viewed from the observatory tells of nature's strength. Additionally, the "Sandanbeki Cave," which can be reached by elevator down 36 meters underground, is a highlight where you can experience a mystical space where legends say the "Kumano Pirates," active in the Genpei War, hid their ships. The powerful sight of crashing waves making a thunderous sound inside the cave is strongly recommended for travelers with...

Wakayama
Sightseeing
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Wakayama

Engetsu Island

"Engetsu Island," floating in the sea of Shirahama, is a representative photogenic small island of Wakayama, named after its unique shape with a round moon-shaped hole in the center. Its formal name is Takashima, and its formative beauty created naturally by the power of waves is also designated as a National Scenic Spot. The beauty of the sunset is particularly exceptional, and during limited periods in spring and autumn, you can see the mystical moment when the setting sun fits perfectly inside the island's hole. It can be easily viewed from the road along the coast, and the time spent...

Wakayama
Sightseeing
Nature
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Wakayama

Senjojiki Rock Plateau

"Senjojiki" is a scenic spot where a huge white rock bed protruding into the Pacific Ocean has become flat terrain like a thousand tatami mats spread out due to wave erosion. While walking on the vast rocks, you can feel the dynamically crashing waves and the vast horizon up close. Especially at dusk, the sight of the sinking sun dyeing the white rock surface golden is breathtakingly beautiful. This place where you can directly feel the incredible power of great nature is also perfect for photography, and is a very popular spot for active travelers who want to enjoy the...

Wakayama
Sightseeing
Nature
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Wakayama

Shirarahama Beach

"Shirarahama," the symbol of Nanki Shirahama, is one of Japan's most beautiful beaches, featuring white, silky sand stretching for about 620 meters, just as its name suggests. The emerald green crystal-clear sea and the landscape lined with palm trees offer an open feeling as if you were in a tropical resort. It has a sister beach affiliation with Waikiki Beach in Hawaii, and it is crowded with many bathers in summer. Fantastic illuminations are also held in winter, allowing enjoyment throughout the four seasons. Walking on the sandy beach is pleasant, and as a symbol of Wakayama's outdoor and relaxation,...

Wakayama
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Wakayama

Tosaya Katsuobushi (Dried Bonito)

"Tosaya Katsuobushi" in Nachi-Katsuura Town is a long-established store that continues to protect the traditional manufacturing method of katsuobushi (dried bonito), the star of "dashi" (soup stock) which is the foundation of Japanese food culture. Using fresh bonito landed at Katsuura Fishing Port, you can closely feel the skill of craftsmen who spend time and effort smoking and drying them. The fragrant scent of smoking drifting in the store stimulates the appetite, and the deep umami of freshly shaved katsuobushi is truly moving. It is a precious place where overseas visitors can also learn about the roots of Japanese "UMAMI,"...

Wakayama
Sightseeing
Food
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Wakayama

Mokubi Co., Ltd.

"Mokubi Co., Ltd." in Shingu City is a brand of lumber and furniture making that promotes the charm of Kishu timber (cedar and cypress) to the world. Skilled craftsmen create furniture and interior accessories full of warmth that maximize the personality of the wood. At the workshop, enveloped in the scent of wood, you can touch traditional Japanese woodworking techniques and the spirit of "monozukuri" (craftsmanship) that coexists with nature. Hand-fitting wooden cutlery and sundries are popular as souvenirs, and it is a place that discerning travelers who want to incorporate the quality of high-quality materials nurtured by Wakayama's rich...

Wakayama
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Wakayama

Shingu Castle Ruins

Located on a small hill near the mouth of the Kumano River, the "Shingu Castle Ruins (Dankaku Castle)" is the site of the former residence of the Chief Retainer of the Kishu Domain. Currently, only the stone walls remain, but the beauty of those elaborately stacked walls tells of the high level of Japanese castle architecture technology. The biggest highlight is the view from the honmaru (inner bailey) ruins, where the panoramic view overlooking the leisurely flowing Kumano River and the Pacific Ocean beyond is spectacular. Loved by locals as a famous cherry blossom spot in spring, it serves as...

Wakayama
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Wakayama

Koyazaka Slope

"Koyazaka" is part of the Kumano Kodo Iseji near Shingu City, and is an extremely precious route where you can walk while looking at the beautiful Pacific Ocean, which is rare for the ancient roads. Mossy cobblestones continue along the coastline, allowing for a historical stroll while listening to the sound of waves. Because the distance is short and flat, it is attractive for beginners and families to easily enjoy the Kumano Kodo atmosphere. This scenic slope, even sung about in the Manyoshu, harmonizes the blue sea with the silence of the ancient road, making it a photogenic spot perfect...

Wakayama
Sightseeing
Nature
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Wakayama

Ogumotorigoe Trail

Known as the most difficult stage of the Kumano Kodo Nakahechi, "Ogumotorigoe" is a rugged yet beautiful route of about 14.5 km connecting Mt. Nachi and Koguchi. It requires physical strength due to the large elevation difference, but the view of the overlapping Kumano mountains from the pass reached is a spectacular sight praised as seeing "ten thousand mountains." With mossy cobblestones and ruins of Jizo halls where pilgrims rested, you can feel the weight of history and the energy of the deep forest with your whole body. The sense of accomplishment after walking the harsh path is exceptional, making...

Wakayama
Sightseeing
Nature
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Wakayama

Dorokyo Gorge

"Dorokyo Gorge," spanning Wakayama, Mie, and Nara prefectures, is one of Japan's leading scenic spots where the clear Kitayama River has carved out giant rocks. In particular, the area called "Doro-hatcho" is known for its mysterious scenery created by sheer cliffs and a deep cobalt blue water surface. Viewing the precipitous cliffs from the water while swaying in a traditional riverboat or a dynamic water jet boat is an overwhelming experience. The mountain colors reflecting in the water change with the seasons like a landscape painting, making it a moving spot for travelers who want to fully enjoy the beauty...

Wakayama
Sightseeing
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Nature
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Wakayama

Kuwanoki-no-taki Falls

Nestled in the mountains of Shingu City, "Kuwanoki Falls" is a hidden masterpiece selected as one of Japan's Top 100 Waterfalls. After walking about 15 minutes along a riverside path from the parking lot, the view suddenly opens up to reveal a waterfall cascading beautifully like white silk down the rock face. The space, surrounded by deep green trees and mossy rocks, is enveloped in mystical silence as if time has stopped. It is not a flashy tourist spot, but in return, it has the luxury of being able to monopolize the inherent beauty of nature. It is a healing...

Wakayama
Nature
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Wakayama

Shingu City

Shingu City, located at the southeastern tip of Wakayama Prefecture, is a historic city at the intersection of river, sea, and mountains, which flourished as a temple town for Kumano Hayatama Taisha. Not only World Heritage shrines, but spots where you can deeply learn about Japanese history and faith while enjoying a city walk, such as "Kamikura Shrine" perched on a cliff and the "Shingu Castle Ruins," are concentrated here. Additionally, unique food cultures like whale dishes and the local specialty "Mehari-zushi" are attractive. The compact townscape is easy to stroll through, and it's an essential city for a pilgrimage...

Wakayama
Area Info
Sightseeing
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Wakayama

Kumano River

Registered as a "water pilgrimage route" in the World Heritage site, the "Kumano River" is a beautiful and grand river connecting mountains and the sea. In the past, imperial families and nobles went down the river by boat from Hongu to Shingu, aiming for sacred sites from the water. Today, tours in traditional wooden boats like the "Sandanbo" (three-sail boat) and "Kawafune-kudari" are popular. Moving along while gazing at the cliffs, deep greenery, and crystal-clear water surface on both banks is a luxurious experience, feeling Kumano's nature from the same perspective as ancient travelers. It's an activity unique to Wakayama...

Wakayama
Sightseeing
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Wakayama

Ueshiba Morihei Memorial Museum

The "Ueshiba Morihei Memorial Museum" in Tanabe City is a facility telling the life and spirit of the founder of the world-famous martial art "Aikido." Built in Tanabe, Morihei's birthplace, this memorial museum allows you to learn the philosophy of "harmony" and "peace" he wanted to convey through Aikido through precious photos, mementos, and videos. Exhibits have multilingual explanations, and martial arts enthusiasts visit from all over the world as a pilgrimage to a sacred site. It is an extremely interesting spot even for those who do not know Aikido, as it allows you to touch not only the techniques...

Wakayama
Sightseeing
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Wakayama

Kogumotorigoe Trail

"Kogumotorigoe," part of the Kumano Kodo Nakahechi, is a beautiful trail of about 13km leading from Ukegawa to Koguchi. Although the slope is gentler compared to Ogumotorigoe, there is a spectacular viewpoint called "Hyakken-gura" along the way, where the panorama of overlapping Kumano mountains is breathtakingly beautiful. The road, with mossy cobblestones and quiet cedar forests, is filled with a silence suitable for calling it a "road of prayer." It is a route that can be enjoyed by everyone from beginners to intermediate hikers, and is confidently recommended for those who want to fully enjoy grand nature and the atmosphere...

Wakayama
Sightseeing
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Wakayama

Kawayu Onsen

"Kawayu Onsen" is a hot spring resort rare in the world where hot spring water gushes from the river bottom. If you dig the riverbed yourself, you can create your own private open-air bath, enjoying the unique experience of adjusting the temperature by mixing it with cold river water. Especially during the winter (December to February), the "Sennin-buro," a giant open-air bath created by damming part of the river, appears, allowing for a bathing experience full of openness under the vast sky. This adventurous way of enjoying nature is an extremely attractive activity for international travelers with a spirit of...

Wakayama
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Accommodation
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