Things to do in Shirahama

No. 1 of Best Things to Do in Wakayama Prefecture

Kumano-Kodo Nakahechi Pilgrimage Route

Kumano-Kodo Nakahechi Pilgrimage Route is a historic pilgrimage route winding through the forests and mountains of the Kii Peninsula. It consists of routes such as the Nakahechi, Kohechi, Ohechi, and Iseji, connecting sacred sites like the Kumano Sanzan and linking to places like Koyasan and Ise Jingu. Since the Heian period, royals, nobles, and commoners have traveled along these ancient paths to worship, leaving behind a historical and cultural tradition that continues to this day. In 2004, the Kumano-Kodo Nakahechi Pilgrimage Route was designated a World Heritage site as part of the "Sacred Sites and Pilgrimage Routes in the Kii Mountain Range." The route is surrounded by dense forests and mountains, featuring moss-covered stone steps, ancient mountain paths, and the ruins of Oji shrines where pilgrims once rested and prayed. Each route has its own unique characteristics: the Nakahechi winds through forests and mountains, the Kohechi connects the Kumano Sanzan to Koyasan, and the Iseji extends along mountains and the coastline, offering views of terraced rice fields, streams, and the sea. The area surrounding the ancient path is also home to hot spring destinations like Yunomine Onsen and Kawayu Onsen, showcasing the blend of local natural environment and traditional culture.

No. 1 of Family-friendly Attractions in Wakayama Prefecture

Wakayama Adventure World

Adventure World is a theme park located in Shirahama, Wakayama Prefecture, and a renowned family-friendly and couple destination in the Kansai region. Combining a zoo, aquarium, and amusement park, it has welcomed the birth of 17 giant pandas and hosts daily dolphin shows along with various animal performances. Visitors can also observe wildlife up close in the safari adventure zone and small animal interaction area. Facing the Pacific Ocean, the park boasts equally stunning natural scenery.

2026 Global 50 - Hot Springs Attractions

Nakishirahama Onsen

Nakishirahama Onsen’s history can be traced back to approx. 1,300 years ago, to the Asuka period. In ancient times, it was known as "Muro no Onsen" and is recorded in both the Nihon Shoki and the Man'yoshu. Its unique feature lies in the blend of hot springs and ocean views. There are many public open-air baths along the coast, the most representative of which is Sakinoyu—a natural open-air hot spring right next to the Pacific Ocean, and one of the baths from the ancient "Yuzaki Shichito" that still exists today. Soaking in the hot spring, you can face the vast ocean horizon with the sound of waves crashing against the shore right beside you; this experience of being up close to the sea is rare in Japan. In addition to Sakinoyu, other public baths such as Muro no Yu and Shirarayu also have their own unique characteristics and can be easily experienced without a stay. Soaking in the hot spring during the day, watching the sunset in the evening, and then listening to the waves against the coastal cliffs is the classic vacation rhythm here.

No. 4 of Best Things to Do in Wakayama Prefecture

Sandanbeki Cliffs

The Sandanbeki is located in Shirahama, Wakayama Prefecture, Japan. It is a natural attraction known for its spectacular coastline and cliff scenery. The cliffs here are about 50 meters high and stretch for 2 kilometers. Facing the vast Pacific Ocean, the scenery is magnificent and it is an ideal place to watch the waves hitting the rocks. Visitors can stroll along the guardrail-lined trails and safely enjoy the spectacular views of the cliffs. The Sandanbeki Cave is one of the highlights of the scenic area. Visitors can take the elevator down to the interior of the cave and explore this natural wonder formed by erosion by waves. The cave is illuminated to facilitate visitors to appreciate the unique texture and shape of the rock wall. Sandanbi is also an ideal place to watch the sunset. In the evening, the setting sun shines on the sea, forming a beautiful natural picture. There is a parking lot and a visitor center nearby, providing basic tourist information and facilities. Sandanbi is not only a paradise for nature lovers, but also an ideal place for photography enthusiasts to capture magnificent scenery, providing visitors with an opportunity to get close to nature.

Engetsu Island

Yuanyue Island is a small island inlaid in the Punan Sea of Linhai. loved. In summer and winter, the sunset scenery is especially beautiful. Shirahama is also a very famous hot spring town, one of the three ancient hot springs in Japan.

Senjojiki Rock Plateau

Senjojiki is a rock plate formed by the sandstone of Neogene. Since sandstone is a rock solidified from sand, it is very soft in texture. After being eroded by waves over the years, it finally formed the complex and unique landscape today. The "stack" of the thousand joeski is pronounced as "tatami" in Japanese, and "fu" means to spread. So Senjojiki means to spread 1,000 tatami mats on the ground. The rock plate is about 4 hectares in size, enough to hold 1,000 tatami mats, hence the name. Senjojiki, Sandanbi and Engetsu Island are also well-known sightseeing spots in Shirahama Town. Coincidentally, the coast where Melaleuca is located belongs to the west coast, so it is naturally a good choice for watching the sunset. Standing on a flat rock plate and watching the fiery red sun slowly sink into the vast Pacific Ocean, it has been a place of interest since ancient times.

Shirarahama Beach

Shirahama Beach is a beach located near Shirahama, Japan. The sand and water quality here are very good, the beach is fine white, the sea is blue, and there are not many tourists. Summer is the time when tourists are more busy here, diving, beach volleyball, beach motorcycles and surfing are good water entertainment here.

Toretore Park

Sandanbeki Cave

Sandanbeki Cave, located in Shirahama-cho, Nishimuro-gun, Wakayama Prefecture, Japan, is a natural wonder full of mystery. The cave attracts many adventure enthusiasts with its unique geographical location and internal landscape. To enter Sandanbeki Cave, visitors need to take an elevator to slowly descend underground, as if traveling through a time tunnel and entering a whole new world. Although the light in the cave is slightly dim, with the help of modern lighting equipment, the various natural forms on the cave wall can still be clearly seen, which is amazing. It is said that from the depths of Sandanbeki Cave, you can go out to the Pacific Ocean, and this unique geographical location adds to its mystery. However, it should be noted that due to the relatively closed environment inside the cave, it may feel hot and humid in summer, and visitors need to be prepared accordingly. Although the visit time of Sandanbeki Cave is relatively short, about half an hour, its unique landscape and mysterious atmosphere are still worth a visit. In addition, there are many other attractions Souvenir the cave, such as beautiful beaches and historical monuments, which provide tourists with a richer travel experience. In general, Sandanbeki Cave is a natural attraction that combines adventure and sightseeing. It is a place not to be missed for nature lovers or tourists seeking new experiences.

No. 2 of Hot Springs Attractions in Wakayama Prefecture

Saki-no-Yu Onsen Spa

The Saki-no-Yu Open-Air Hot Spring is a popular natural hot spring located in Wakayama Prefecture, Japan, and is famous for its unique geographical location and beautiful natural landscape. This hot spring is located on the coast, directly facing the Pacific Ocean, and visitors can enjoy magnificent sea views and sunrises while soaking in the hot spring. Saki-no-Yu is famous for its open-air design. The hot spring pool is surrounded by natural rocks and blends in with the surrounding natural environment, providing a unique experience of close contact with nature. Due to its special location by the sea, the Saki-no-Yu Open-Air Hot Spring not only provides beautiful sea views during the day, but also allows visitors to enjoy the tranquility and relaxation of the hot spring under the stars at night. The hot spring experience here combines the magnificence of nature with the healing effects of hot springs, making it an ideal place to relax. Whether it is a traveler seeking relaxation or an explorer who loves nature, the Saki-no-Yu Open-Air Hot Spring provides an unforgettable experience, allowing every visitor to feel the infinite charm of nature while enjoying the hot spring.