Visit Wakayama The Official
Wakayama Travel Guide

Kawayu: The Oto-gawa River is the focal point of the Kawayu Onsen town. Geothermal water bubbles up to the surface of the river providing one big river-sized hot spring.

Yunomine: A tiny hamlet tucked up in the Kumano mountains, Yunomine Onsen is home to one of the oldest hot spring resorts in all of Japan.

Wataze: Large outdoor baths are the star attraction in the hot spring area of Wataze Onsen.

Secure a spiritual awakening by a visit to one of the most important sites on the Kumano Kodo Pilgrimage Route. Hosshinmon-oji Shrine marks the outermost entrance to the divine precinct of the grand shrine of Kumano Hongu Taisha.

When you reach Fushiogami-oji Shrine you will get your first sight of the grand shrine as well as a view of all six of the subsidiary oji-shrines.

When you arrive at Sangen-jaya, you have made it to an old woodland crossroads, where you can see old tea house remains and an Edo period (1603 - 1868) stone signpost pointing you in the direction of the Buddhist complex of Koyasan and Kimiidera Temple—close to Wakayama City.

A final athletic challenge stands in your way before reaching your goal of Kumano Hongu Taisha Grand Shrine—a long stone staircase. Once you reach the summit, you will be greeted by the striking wooden structure of the shrine, blending in beautifully with its natural surroundings.

There are clusters of small hotels, guesthouses and other places to stay near and around Kumano Hongu Taisha. It is also possible to return back to the onsen resort areas from Hongu Taisha-mae bus stop. Make sure to check the bus schedule carefully as the last buses are relatively early—around 16:30.

Take the weight off your feet and travel in comfort to the grand shrine of Kumano Hayatama. The 90-minute boat tour takes you down the only part of the Kumano Kodo Pilgrimage Route that is located on water. English tour guides are available if requested when you make a reservation.

Kumano Hayatama Taisha is the only grand shrine located riverside. The striking vermillion red of the shrine's facade houses a treasure hall packed with over a thousand items of historical, artistic and spiritual significance. The grounds host the natural god of an 800-year-old Nagi-no-Ki tree.

Venture further into the mountains and scramble up the steep stone incline to be faced with a giant rock—said to be the landing point for the Kumano deities as they entered the mortal world. The shrine of Kamikura-jinja Shrine is perched perilously on the cliff-side with great panoramic views of Shingu and the Pacific Ocean.

The retro fishing town of Katsuura is known for its hot springs offering you the chance to unwind after your day of spiritual adventure. A number of large hotels with onsen located in uniquely natural settings are available, along with smaller hostels and guesthouses.

The 600-meter long, 267 steps of the Daimon-zaka cobblestone staircase guides you up to the grand shrine of Kumano Nachi Taisha Shrine. Dense Japanese cedar trees create a natural canopy, sheltering you from the elements. Rent Heian period (794-1185) kimonos to enhance your experience and arrive at the shrine in style.

The mountain shrine of Kumano Nachi Taisha is one of the three grand shrines known as the Kumano Sanzan. The focus of the shrine is the thundering sacred waterfall located nearby.

In a striking symbol of religious harmony, Seiganto-ji Temple sits side by side with the shrine. The vibrant red pagoda of the temple, in front of the roaring Nachi Waterfall, offers photographers a stunning shot of Japanese spirituality.

The Nachi waterfall is more than just water tumbling down from a great height. It is home to a Shinto god and people have worshipped since before recorded time. Get closer to the life-prolonging water by viewing the waterfall from the viewing platform—a small fee is required.