Wakayama

Covering the southernmost part of the island of Honshu, Wakayama Prefecture sits on the Kii Peninsula in the Kansai Region. The capital city of this prefecture is Wakayama....

From rugged mountains to untouched white-sand beaches, with ancient temples and shrines fitting nicely in between, Wakayama Prefecture is Japan’s spiritual heartland. Soaked in history and beautifully stuck in time, this is a prefecture like no other. Outdoor enthusiasts will feel in the footsteps of emperors and samurais while tracing the dense woodland of Kumano Kodo pilgrimage routes. For mountain climbing and hiking with some breathtaking views of Mt. Kongou and Mt. Katsuragi, head to Yoshino-Kumano National Park. If you are into diving among coral reefs and sunbathing on some of the best Kansai beaches, opt for southern coastal towns of Kushimoto and Shirahama. Here, you can also relax and bath in some of Japan’s best onsen and hot springs. To immerse yourself in the local culture, explore impressive Wakayama Castle or even Koyasan, home to one of the first Japanese style Buddhist temples.