Japan - A Relaxing 5-Day Escape to Wakayama: Coastal Charm and Ancient Culture

Experience the Charm of a Coastal City and Ancient Culture (Wakayama Castle, Wakayama Marina City, Kuroshio Market, Hamachidorinoyu Kaisyu (Hot Spring), Kumano Kodo, Nachi Falls, Nachi Taisha)

Weather:

• Wakayama has a humid subtropical climate, with hot and humid summers and mild, dry winters.

• Summer (June to August) average temperatures range from 25°C to 32°C.

• Winters (December to February) are cool, with average temperatures between 5°C to 12°C.

• The rainy season is from June to July, with typhoon season from August to October.

• The best times to visit are spring (April to May) and autumn (October to November) when the weather is mild and pleasant.
  

Travel Tips:

• Wakayama is known for its beautiful coastline, temples, shrines, and natural scenery. Popular attractions include Kumano Kodo pilgrimage trails, Nachi Taisha shrine, and Wakayama Castle.

• Getting around Wakayama is easiest by public transportation like buses and trains. The Nankai Electric Railway connects major cities.

• For accommodations, ryokans (traditional Japanese inns) and business hotels are good options.

• Try local Wakayama specialties like mikan oranges, seafood dishes, and Wakayama beef.

• Pack layers of clothing to prepare for the changing weather, especially in spring and autumn.

• Bring comfortable walking shoes for exploring the temples, shrines, and hiking trails.

• Learn some basic Japanese phrases to help with communication, as English proficiency can be limited in more rural areas.

• Consider getting a Japan Rail Pass if you plan to travel to other regions during your trip.

Hotel:

1. Hotel Granvia Wakayama Hotel

2. Hamachidorinoyu Kaisyu

3. La Scala Hotel

Flight: Check Here

Day 1: Arrival and Wakayama Castle's Majestic Sunset

My journey began at Kansai International Airport, and after a quick 1-hour ride, I checked into the comfortable Hotel Granvia Wakayama. My first stop was Chuuka Soba Semmonten Ide Shouten (MAP), a local favorite for Japanese noodles. The noodles were delicious, and the cost was around JPY 1,500.

Recommended: Tonkotsu Ramen, Shio Ramen, Miso Ramen, Gyoza (Pan-Fried Dumplings), Edamame, Mochi Ice Cream for dessert

Next, I embarked on a 30-minute walk to Wakayama Castle (MAP), a majestic landmark overlooking the city. I spent the afternoon exploring its historical grounds, including the Tenshu-kaku (main tower) and the serene Nishinomaru Garden. The sunset views from the castle were breathtaking, painting the sky in hues of orange and pink. The entrance fee was around JPY 200 - 410. And there is a Wakayama Castle Park Zoo for Free visiting, highly recommended for this zoo.

For dinner, I indulged in a delightful French meal at Joy Mimura (MAP) where I savored exquisite flavors for approximately JPY 10,000.

Day 2: Marina City, Fresh Seafood, and a Taste of Kumano Beef

Day 2 started with a leisurely breakfast at the hotel before heading to Wakayama Marina City (MAP), a vibrant waterfront complex. I spent the morning exploring the Europa Port, a charming European-themed area, and the Fruit Village, a delightful market bursting with fresh produce. The entrance was free, and I spent around 1.5 hours exploring.

My lunch was a culinary adventure at Kuroshio Market (MAP) a bustling seafood haven. I enjoyed a delicious hand-rolled sushi set for about JPY 1,500. But actually, you will find more other choices (Fresh Tuna Donburi, Hand-rolled Sushi, Sea Urchin, Seaside BBQ, 90-minute All-you-can-eat Buffet, etc. - The Average Cost around: JPY 900 - 2,980)

For Other restaurants, it needs around. JPY 900 - 3,500 per person.

Later, I ventured to Karubi Icchou (MAP) for my dinner, a renowned grill meat restaurant, where I savored the rich flavors of Kumano beef for around JPY 5,000.

To end the day, I strolled through Okuwa Wakayama Nakanoshima-ten, a local supermarket, picking up some snacks and souvenirs for around JPY 2,500.

Day 3: Onsen Relaxation and Coastal Scenery

After a leisurely breakfast, I checked out of the hotel and embarked on a 2-hour journey to Shirahama Onsen, a renowned hot spring resort. I stopped for a delicious lunch at Kouzushi (MAP) where I enjoyed a sushi set for around JPY 3,700.

Upon arrival at Shirahama Onsen, I checked into the Hamachidorinoyu Kaisyu, an onsen hotel. The hotel offered a peaceful atmosphere and a chance to relax in the soothing hot springs.

After a refreshing onsen experience, I explored the Shirahama Sea Observatory (MAP), a stunning vantage point offering panoramic views of the coastline. The entrance fee was around JPY 800.

I ended the day with a stroll along Senjojiki (MAP), a scenic cliff-side promenade, enjoying the fresh sea breeze and the calming sounds of the waves.

Day 4: Kumano Kodo Pilgrimage and Local Delights

Started with a delicious breakfast at the onsen hotel. After checking out, I embarked on a 2-hour journey to Kii Katsuura, the starting point for my Kumano Kodo pilgrimage.

There are coin-operated luggage lockers.

I joined a local tour, exploring the Daimonzaka and Nachi Taisha, two iconic sites on the Kumano Kodo pilgrimage trail. I spent approximately 4 hours immersing myself in the spiritual atmosphere.

Here are brief introductions to these places:

Daimonzaka: A scenic and historic stone staircase in Wakayama, Japan, surrounded by beautiful forest and offering stunning views.

Nachi Taisha: A sacred Shinto shrine in Wakayama, Japan, famous for its beautiful architecture, serene gardens, and stunning ocean views.

After the tour, I checked into La Scala Hotel, a charming hotel in Wakayama. For dinner, I indulged in a delicious yakiniku meal at Yakiniku Kinoya Wakayama (MAP), savoring grilled meat for around JPY 6,000.

Day 5: Kishi Station, AEON Wakayama, and Departure

My final day started with a delightful breakfast at Izumi Cafe (MAP), where I enjoyed a delicious meal for around JPY 700.

Next, I took a 40-minute train ride to Kishi Station (MAP), a unique station known for its cat-themed decorations. I spent some time exploring the station and the nearby Tama Museum (MAP), a museum dedicated to cat-related art. The round-trip ticket cost around JPY 800.

For lunch, I headed to AEON Wakayama (MAP), a large shopping mall. I enjoyed a delicious conveyor belt sushi lunch at Hokkai Zairyo Kaisen-zushi for around JPY 3,000. I also picked up some souvenirs for family and friends.

Finally, I took a 48-minute train ride back to Kansai International Airport, where I bid farewell to the charming city of Wakayama.

Overall, my 5-day trip to Wakayama was a perfect blend of relaxation, cultural immersion, and breathtaking scenery. I highly recommend this itinerary to anyone looking for a peaceful and enriching journey in Japan.