Nanki–Shirahama Airport
Nanki-Shirahama Airport is in the heart of Shirahama—a historical onsen resort and beach paradise. Once you have landed, board a bus and be on the white sands of Shirarahama Beach in ten minutes or at the expansive zoological park Adventure World in just five.
Getting to Shirahama from Tokyo
If you plan to travel to Wakayama directly from Tokyo, flying is the most convenient and time-efficient option. Wakayama is densely forested and mountainous, so you can avoid a long and windy train ride or car trip by choosing to board a flight from Tokyo's Haneda Airport.
Tokyo Airport (Haneda) - Nanki-Shirahama Airport flight schedule
Where is Haneda Airport? Best time to fly
How do I book flights?
Booking domestic flights in Japan just got a lot easier and cheaper. Japan Airlines (JAL) offers the Explorer Pass to anyone who resides outside of Japan and holds an international air ticket to and from Japan. JAL offers reduced fares on any applicable routes within the country, including the flight down to Nanki-Shirahama from Tokyo’s Haneda Airport. Booking tickets is made very easy through the website, where the steps are clearly explained in English. As with booking any flight, be sure to read through the finer details and conditions and be aware that taxes apply to all flight fares.
Seeing the sights—area access
Visit the spiritual complex of Koyasan and the Kumano Sanzan grand shrines. The Koyasan & Kumano Access Bus gives you unlimited rides between the spiritual sites.
Kumano Kodo Nakahechi Access Map
Koyasan & Kumano Access Bus
Renting a car in Shirahama gives you the freedom to travel around the area on your own schedule—ideal if you are travelling with a young family.
Nippon Rent-A-Car
ORIX Rent-A-Car
What routes do you recommend?
Spiritual Awakening via River, Bath and Cobblestone Path
Take your first steps to enlightenment along a section of the well-worn Kumano Kodo Pilgrimage Route. Enjoy a boat trip and hot springs along the way.
Feel Imperial—the Full Nakahechi Course
If you are an experienced hiker, consider taking on the challenge of the full Nakahechi Course—one of the World Heritage-designated Kumano Kodo Pilgrimage Routes.
Drive Wakayama—from sparkling Shirahama
Rent a car and drive deep into the mountains or along the winding coastal roads. Explore Wakayama without having to rely on public transport.
The deep mountain course
Rent a bicycle and or bring your own and discover Wakayama's spiritual and natural sights on two wheels. Designated cycle routes range from beginner to professional.
