Wakayama
Sacred trails, steaming onsen, and seaside luxury for family memories
Highlights
Hike UNESCO-listed ancient pilgrimage paths through lush forests to sacred shrines.
Relax on white-sand shores with crystal waters ideal for family play.
Experience monastic life with temple stays and vegetarian shojin ryori meals.
Marvel at Japan's tallest waterfall beside a historic pagoda.
Soak in private hot springs with ocean views and kaiseki feasts.
Explore a hilltop fortress with panoramic city views and samurai history.
Where to Stay
2 picks
Grand Mercure Wakayama Minabe Resort & Spa
Oceanfront 5-star resort with spacious family suites, infinity pools, kids' club, and multiple onsen baths.
Nanki-Shirahama Marriott Hotel
Elegant beachside Marriott with family rooms, spa, onsen, and direct access to Shirahama Beach.
Where to Eat
7 picks
Kaisyu (Hamachidori-no-yu Kaishu)
Seaside ryokan kaiseki dinner with fresh seafood; private dining room available.
Hotel Granvia Wakayama (Top Floor Dining)
Panoramic steak and seafood omakase with city views.
Kamenoi Hotel Nachi Katsuura Kaiseki
Oceanfront multi-course dinner with local persimmon and fish specialties.
Shirahama Coganoi Resort & Spa Restaurant
Kaiseki using local ingredients; ocean-view private family dining.
Wakayama Marina City Porto Europa Food Hall (VIP Box)
Private booth for gourmet seafood platters and European-Japanese fusion.
Kumano Bettei Nakanoshima Restaurant
Luxury ryokan kaiseki featuring Kumano seafood and mountain veggies.
INFINITO HOTEL & SPA Nankishirahama Restaurant
Infinity poolside kaiseki with premium wagyu and sashimi.
What to Do
5 picks
Kumano Nachi Taisha & Nachi Falls
Private guided hike to Japan's tallest waterfall and ancient shrine complex; includes cable car ride.
Shirahama Beach & Adventure World
Private beach cabana followed by panda viewing and safari rides at this family theme park.
Koyasan Okunoin Cemetery
Private night tour of Japan's largest cemetery with lantern-lit paths and monk guide.
Wakayama Castle
VIP guided tour of the restored castle with museum, gardens, and rooftop views.
Kawayu Onsen River Bathing
Private riverside onsen rental for family hot spring soaking in natural flow.
Good to Know
5 picks
Book Private Guides Early
Hire English-speaking local guides via Viator or concierge for temples and trails; essential for family pacing.
Pack Light Layers
Wakayama's mountains and coast vary; bring quick-dry clothes for onsen and hikes.
Opt for Shojin Ryori
Try temple vegetarian cuisine at Koyasan; kid portions available and nutritious.
Use Onsen Etiquette Guide
Review family onsen rules; many offer private baths for modesty.
Arrange Helicopter Transfer
Splurge on heli-tours from Osaka to Shirahama or Koyasan for quick access.
Map
Map unavailable
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