Wakayama Travel Guide

Trek Zone

City

Facts and practical information

Nestled on the southern coast of Japan's Honshu island, Wakayama is a vibrant city that offers a unique blend of natural beauty, cultural heritage, and modern attractions. With its picturesque landscapes, historic sites, and delicious cuisine, Wakayama is a must-visit destination for travelers seeking an authentic Japanese experience.

One of the highlights of Wakayama is Mount Koya, a sacred mountain and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Home to over 100 Buddhist temples, Mount Koya is a spiritual haven where visitors can immerse themselves in the tranquility of the surroundings. Take a stroll through the enchanting Okunoin cemetery, where thousands of tombstones are nestled amongst towering cedar trees, creating a serene and ethereal atmosphere.

For nature enthusiasts, a visit to the Kumano Kodo pilgrimage trails is a must. These ancient trails have been used for centuries by pilgrims seeking spiritual enlightenment. Follow in their footsteps as you hike through lush forests, past cascading waterfalls, and discover hidden shrines along the way. The Kumano Kodo trails offer a unique opportunity to connect with nature and experience the beauty of Wakayama's countryside.

Wakayama is also renowned for its delicious food. Indulge in a bowl of ramen at Ramen Dojo, where you can savor the rich flavors of the region's specialty, Wakayama ramen. For seafood lovers, a visit to Kuroshio Market is a must. Here, you can sample an array of fresh seafood, including the famous Kaisen-don, a bowl of rice topped with a variety of seafood delicacies.

History buffs will find plenty to explore in Wakayama. Pay a visit to Wakayama Castle, a beautifully preserved castle that offers panoramic views of the city. Wander through the historic streets of the Kishu Toshogu Shrine, dedicated to the legendary shogun Tokugawa Ieyasu. Explore the Wakayama City Museum, where you can learn about the rich history and culture of the region.

Local name: 和歌山市 Population: 355.8 thous. (2019)Area: 80.64 mi²Elevation: 30 ft a.s.l.Coordinates: 34°13'56"N, 135°10'26"E

Location

Region: WakayamaJapan

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Wakayama Top Attractions

Wakayama Attractions - What to See and Explore

Wakayama offers many attractions and places to visit. Here are the most important ones: Wakayama Castle, Wakayama Prefectural Museum, Wakayama Prefecture Kii-fudoki-no-oka Museum of Archaeology and Folklore, Wakayama City Museum. Below you will find a complete list of places worth visiting.

Tranquil hilltop castle
Wakayama Castle
Nestled in the heart of the city of Wakayama, Wakayama Castle stands as a proud testament to Japan's rich feudal history. This historic fortress, encircled by stone walls and moats, has been a focal point of the region since its initial construction during the 16th...
Museum • History museum
Wakayama Prefectural Museum
Wakayama Prefectural Museum is a history museum in located in the city of Wakayama, Wakayama Prefecture, Japan.
Museum • Historical place • Ruins
Wakayama Prefecture Kii-fudoki-no-oka Museum of Archaeology and Folklore
Wakayama Prefecture Kii-fudoki-no-oka Museum of Archaeology and Folklore is an archaeology museum located in the outskirts of the city of Wakayama, Wakayama Prefecture, Japan.

Museum • History museum • Specialty museum
Wakayama City Museum
Wakayama City Museum is a local history museum located in the city of Wakayama, Wakayama Prefecture, Japan. It opened in November 1985 to commemorate the 400th anniversary of the construction of Wakayama Castle.
Temple
Hinokuma Shrine
Hinokuma Shrine and Kunikakasu Shrine is a Shinto shrine complex in Wakayama, Wakayama Prefecture, Japan. It is officially known simply as nichizengū. Its main festival is held annually on September 26. It shares the rank of the Ise Grand Shrine in the shinkai system.
Lighthouse
Tomogashima Lighthouse
Tomogashima Lighthouse is a lighthouse on the island of Tomogashima in Wakayama, Wakayama, Japan.
Sacred and religious sites • Temple • Historical place
Kamayama Shrine
Kamayama Shrine is a Shinto shrine in the city of Wakayama, Wakayama Prefecture, Japan.
Sacred and religious sites • Temple
Kishū Tōshō-gū
Kishū Tōshō-gū is a Shinto shrine located in the city of Wakayama Wakayama Prefecture, Japan. It enshrines the deified first Shōgun of the Tokugawa shogunate, Tokugawa Ieyasu.
34°16'30"N • 135°4'30"E
Kada Kasuga-jinja
Sacred and religious sites
34°13'50"N • 135°10'16"E
He ge shan shi yi suo
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Universities and schools
Wakayama University
Wakayama University, or Wadai, is a national university located in Wakayama, Japan. It was founded in 1949 and is organized in four faculties.
Universities and schools
Wakayama Shin-Ai Women's Junior College
Wakayama Shin-Ai Women's Junior College is a private university in Wakayama, Wakayama, Japan. It was established in 1951.
Universities and schools
Wakayama Medical University
Wakayama Medical University is a public university in Wakayama, Wakayama, Japan. The predecessor of the school was founded in 1945, and it was chartered as a university in 1948.

Day trips

Wakayama – popular in the area (distance from the center)

In the vicinity of Wakayama, it's worth seeing attractions such as: Osaka Castle (Osaka), Universal Studios Japan (Osaka), Osaka Aquarium Kaiyukan (Osaka).

37 milesNE
Renowned, historic castle with a museum
Osaka Castle, Osaka
Osaka Castle, a historic fortress nestled in the heart of Osaka, Japan, stands as a testament to the country's rich feudal history. Constructed in 1583 by Toyotomi Hideyoshi, a prominent daimyo and warrior, this iconic structure symbolizes power and fortitude.
33 milesNE
Movie-themed amusement park with rides
Universal Studios Japan, Osaka
Universal Studios Japan, located in the vibrant city of Osaka, is a world-class amusement park that brings the magic of movies, animations, and thrilling experiences to life. Since its grand opening in March 2001, it has become a must-visit destination for tourists...
33 milesNE
Huge landmark for marine-life exhibits
Osaka Aquarium Kaiyukan, Osaka
Osaka Aquarium Kaiyukan stands as a testament to the marvels of aquatic life, nestled in the vibrant city of Osaka, Japan. This impressive facility, known as one of the largest and most spectacular aquariums in the world, offers visitors an immersive journey through...
37 milesNE
Large urban park with gardens and a castle
Osaka Castle Park, Osaka
Osaka Castle Park, a verdant oasis nestled in the heart of Osaka, Japan, is an emblematic site that combines rich history with scenic beauty. The park, centered around the majestic Osaka Castle, offers visitors a chance to immerse themselves in the tranquility of...
41 milesS
Theme park, Zoo, Aquarium
Adventure World, Shirahama
Adventure World in Shirahama, Japan, is an exhilarating theme park that offers a unique blend of amusement rides, wildlife attractions, and aquatic experiences. This expansive park, nestled in the picturesque Wakayama Prefecture, provides a full day of fun for...

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Best Time To Visit Wakayama

Learn when is the best time to travel to Wakayama weather-wise and what to expect in each season.

Popularity among visitors

JFMAMJJASOND

July and August are the busiest months in this location. Many people also choose to visit in May.

Average temperatures in °F

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The highest air temperature is in July and August. While the coldest is in January and February.

Monthly rainfall in inches

JFMAMJJASOND

The lowest rainfall is recorded in December. Most of it rains in June and September.

Length of day in hours

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We can expect the longest days in June, while the shortest in December.

Sunrise

Best Ways to Experience the City

Food & drink

Cuisine

A guide to some of the best local dishes and drinks that you will meet in the region.

Ramen
Ramen is a cherished Japanese noodle soup that has won hearts around the world. It typically features Chinese wheat noodles in a savory broth made from either meat or fish, flavored with soy sauce or miso, and garnished with delectable toppings such as sliced pork...
Dish

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

What are the top attractions to visit in Wakayama?

The top attractions to visit in Wakayama are:

What is the best time to visit Wakayama?

July and August are the busiest months in this location. Many people also choose to visit in May. The highest air temperature is in July and August. While the coldest is in January and February.