Major Attractions
Wakayama Castle
Built by the powerful Tokugawa feudal lords, this impressive castle served as a center of political power throughout the Edo Period. The reconstructed castle and its beautiful gardens showcase samurai architecture and provide panoramic views of the city, while museums within display artifacts from Wakayama's feudal past.
Kimiidera Temple
Famous throughout Japan for spectacular spring cherry blossom displays, this historic temple complex features hundreds of sakura trees that transform the grounds into a pink wonderland each April. The temple's elevated position offers stunning views of Wakayama Bay while providing a serene setting for contemplation and seasonal appreciation.
Kumano Kodo Pilgrimage Routes
UNESCO World Heritage ancient pilgrimage trails that connect the Three Grand Shrines of Kumano through the mountainous Kii Peninsula. These sacred paths, walked by spiritual seekers for over 1,000 years, offer modern pilgrims the opportunity to experience profound natural beauty while following routes once traveled by emperors and ascetics.
Kumano Hongu Taisha
One of the Three Grand Shrines of Kumano and the principal destination of pilgrims walking the Kumano Kodo routes. This sacred shrine, nestled in mountains and forests, embodies the synthesis of Buddhist and Shinto traditions that characterizes Kumano worship, drawing spiritual seekers from around the world.
Shirahama Onsen
A premier seaside hot spring resort on the Kii Peninsula featuring therapeutic mineral waters with a 1,300-year history. Shirahama combines beautiful white sand beaches with traditional Japanese ryokan inns, offering visitors the rare opportunity to enjoy ocean views while soaking in natural hot springs.
Yunomine Onsen
Historic hot springs in the Hongu area that have served as a purification site for Kumano pilgrims for centuries. This UNESCO World Heritage hot spring village maintains its traditional atmosphere with small family-run inns and public baths where travelers can experience the same healing waters used by pilgrims throughout the ages.