Wakayama, Another Side of Japan
Wakayama, Another Side of Japan
From old-growth cedar forests, to river kayaking, paragliding, hiking along the sacred Kumano Kodo pilgrimage routes, hot springs, the beach and so much more, the Kii Peninsula abounds in nature and outdoor recreational opportunities.
River Sports
River Sports
From fast flowing to ambling, the Wakayama coast and mountains have a wealth of rivers fed by regular rainfall – perfect for canyoning, river kayaking, and whitewater rafting. There are many tailored river sporting options mainly available from May through to November.
Forest Therapy
Forest Therapy
Enjoy the calming benefits of ‘forest bathing’, a practice known as Shinrin-yoku in Japan. This style of slowed down walking, surrounded by trees and crisp mountain air, reawakens the senses. Spring and Autumn, when the weather is mild, are the ideal seasons to try this mood-boosting activity in the Kii Mountains.
Camping in Wakayama
Camping in Wakayama
In the countryside, given the absence of light pollution, stargazing conditions are phenomenal. Why not camp under the stars, or soak in an outdoor onsen and watch the revolving heavens; between the mountains, rivers and beaches, you won’t be at a loss for outdoor activities.
Lofty Heights
Lofty Heights
For an adrenaline-filled day or afternoon, dip and soar through the sky to take in Wakayama's majestic mountains. Spring paragliding flights offer a sublime perspective on Hanami, Japan’s festive cherry blossom season, an experience ordinarily enjoyed from below the soft pink canopies of the cherry trees. Take flight solo, or tandem with a certified pilot; programs suiting varying levels are available. A basic understanding of Japanese, is necessary for novice pilots requiring paragliding training.
Culture Outdoors
Culture Outdoors
Looking for an incomparable outdoor experience? Cultural activities unique to Japan and Wakayama, include those from green tea harvesting workshops to walking a section of the Kumano Kodo trails in Heian Era (794-1185) costume. Retrace the steps of the first pilgrims, members of the imperial household and courtiers, and journey the sacred and historic pilgrimage routes, dressed in the fineries of the day. Cultured twists on rustic excursions like these, can make a memorable afternoon, and a picture-worthy outing.
Hiking The Famed Kumano Kodo
Hiking The Famed Kumano Kodo
Hikers can choose from short morning jaunts in the sacred Kii Mountains, along the various Kumano Kodo pilgrimage routes, to multi-day journeys. The varied topography, from gentle slopes to rugged mountainous terrain, afford hikers of all skill levels the chance to enjoy this historic landscape. Travelers desiring a historical context along the way, may wish to have a knowledgeable guide and interpreter accompany them; reservations must be made 3-days in advance. And if physical exertion still sounds daunting or your time is limited, why not try an express sightseeing option: a scenic taxi tour to visit specific segments of the pilgrimage trails, and the sacred sites along them.
Cycling in Wakayama
Bicycles are ubiquitous in Japan, and a common way for local residents to get around. You will notice that cyclists are allowed to share the sidewalk with pedestrians, and few cycle on roads. Look out for battery-assisted and conventional bicycle rental services typically located near train stations and information centers. Some even offer recommended cycling routes whilst others, such as the Kumano Hongu Heritage Center, offer multiple bicycle drop-off locations for cyclists wishing to explore Hongu and its hot springs hamlets.
Onsen Hamlets
Onsen Hamlets
Nestled in the densely forested Kii Mountains, are thermal spring hamlets that date back more than 1,800 years. For centuries, the Japanese have been visiting these hamlets to bathe in their beautifying and healing waters. Take a long, soothing soak in the heart of Wakayama’s great outdoors. At Kawayu Onsen, 70ºC thermal waters bubble up from the Oto-gawa riverbed for a rustic hot spring experience: one of many such wondrous Wakayama bathing experiences not to be missed!
Traditional Log Rafting
Traditional Log Rafting
Why not try a one-of-kind, exhilarating log ride down the swift currents of the Kitayama-gawa river, a reminder of traditional logging practices in the region
Year-round Tee Times
Year-round Tee Times
With its temperate climate, golf courses in Wakayama are open even in Winter. Manicured greens, long fairways on rolling hills lined with Japanese pine trees, and vistas of the Pacific Ocean are some of the scenic landscapes Wakayama's golf courses have to offer. Along the Kii Peninsula perimeter, from Wakayama City to Shirahama, and in the Nachi-Katsuura vicinity, enjoy a day working on your handicap at one of seventeen golf courses. Whether you wish to practice at a driving range, or play a round of 18 holes, clubs and shoes can be rented. Japanese-language ability is required for most golf courses. Download the ‘Wakayama Golf Course’ guidebook for more details; these brochures include MAPCODE GPS settings, for easy route navigation when driving to some of the more remote locations.
Stargazing, Nature’s Original Illumination
In search of an other-worldly experience? Wintery nights are the perfect time to gaze up at the heavens above. Misato Astronomical Observatory located in Kimino Town, between Koyasan and Kainan City, boasts a telescope so powerful it is possible to see Saturn's rings. Visit the observatory for a spectacular view of that expansive starry-wonder: the Milky Way.