What to Do in Wakayama City, Japan
Wakayama City is just an hour south of downtown Osaka by train. It’s located in Wakayama Prefecture, a mythical place characterised by beautiful beaches, ancient pilgrimage trails and picturesque onsen villages. Discover the best things to do there with this guide to Wakayama City.
1. Take a stroll around the seaside Saikazaki fishing village
Architectural Landmark
At first glimpse, Saikazaki, a fishing village built into mountains overlooking the ocean, conjures up images of Mediterranean life. Located in Wakaura, a seaside district home to pristine beaches, mountain hikes and fresh seafood, Saikazaki and the surrounding areas are magical places. The views from the winding streets are spectacular, and an aimless wander can easily take visitors through lush green forest tunnels and ancient temples. Wakaura is also home to a weekend fish market, tropical beach retreat Bagus and the Takozushi Mountain hike and viewpoint.
2. Explore the abandoned military ruins of Okinoshima
Architectural Landmark
Once a military stronghold, Okinoshima is now a great place for exploration and camping. During World War II, a secret military base was placed on Okinoshima, and the island was removed from maps and records. The base was never used and now lies abandoned, being slowly engulfed by nature. The red brick buildings strangled by vines and overgrown plants resemble scenery from Laputa: Castle in the Sky, a beloved Studio Ghibli film. It’s a great place to take enchanting photos. Okinoshima is accessible by a short ferry ride from Kada Port, a short walk from Kada Station in Wakayama.
3. Visit historic Wakayama Castle
Historical Landmark
Perched on top of a mountain and overlooking this lovely city is Wakayama Castle. Similar in style to Himeji Castle, Japan’s most beloved, this structure burned down during WWII but was reconstructed through fundraising efforts of the locals. Wakayama Castle and the surrounding grounds are much smaller than those of the nearby Osaka Castle, but it’s a lot less crowded and more tranquil. Nishinomaru-Teien Garden, especially beautiful in autumn, houses a teahouse where you can get matcha to sip on while you roam through the scenic foliage. The castle is conveniently located near the city’s hub station, which has plenty of dining and shopping options.
5. Make a pilgrimage to two of the city’s most important shrines
Shrine
Kishu Toshogu Shrine and Wakaura Tenmangu Shrine are two of the most visually striking in the city, if not the whole country. To reach either, visitors must climb steep stairs, making the ascent feel as epic as a real pilgrimage. You will truly be walking in the footsteps of pilgrims of ancient times, as both shrines date back hundreds of years. Kishu Toshogu enshrines Tokugawa Ieyasu, Japan’s first and most famous Shogun. Wakaura Tenmangu is dedicated to the god of academics. Both are breathtaking and offer panoramic views. The two shrines are located a short walk from each other and the Wakaura beach area.
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