Things to do in Wakayama City
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Top 10 attractions in Wakayama City
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.Tanabe · 59.6km from Wakayama City
Kimii-dera
Kimii-dera was founded in 770 by the Tang dynasty monk Kōjō Shōnin and has a long history. The name Kimii-dera comes from "a temple in Kishu with three wells." These three wells still produce Seijō-sui, Yōryū-sui, and Kisshō-sui water, which have been selected as one of the 100 Remarkable Waters of Japan. There are also solemn and magnificent structures such as the Sakura-mon Gate, built in 1509, and the Itsukushima Jinja Tahoto Pagoda, built in 1449. In addition, about 1,200 cherry trees are planted on the temple grounds, making it a famous cherry blossom viewing spot where flowers bloom early, attracting many visitors during the blooming season. Kimii-dera is the second stop on the Saigoku Kannon Pilgrimage, a series of Kannon sacred sites scattered across the Kinki region and Gifu Prefecture, attracting many pilgrims from all over Japan.Wakayama City · 5.3km from downtown
Wakayama Castle
Wakayama Castle was built in 1585 by Toyotomi Hidenaga, the younger brother of Toyotomi Hideyoshi. In 1619, Tokugawa Yorinobu, the son of the then-ruler Tokugawa Ieyasu, became the lord of the castle, which served as the residence of the Kishu Tokugawa family, one of the Tokugawa Gosanke, for 250 years. Although the main keep, small keep, and Tamon turret were destroyed by lightning, they were immediately rebuilt, maintaining their dignity for a long time. In 1935, 11 structures, including theOsaka Castle Museum, corner turrets, and the Kusunoki Gate, were designated as National Treasures, but all 11 were destroyed during the war. In 1958, after the war, theOsaka Castle Museumwas rebuilt, restoring its former grandeur. Osaka Castle Museumhouses various exhibits related to the Tokugawa family, and from the observation deck on the top floor, you can enjoy a panoramic view of the Kii River, the Wakayama Castle area, and more. Additionally, the castle grounds feature the nationally designated place of scenic beauty,Momijidani Garden, where you can enjoy elegant scenery. The surrounding area has been developed into Wakayamajo Park, where 1,300 cherry trees bloom in spring, attracting many visitors for cherry blossom viewing and creating a lively atmosphere.Wakayama City · 324m from downtown
Kuroshio Market
Kuroshio Market is located by the sea in Wakayama City and is a great spot for seafood. Covering an area of 13,000 square meters, it offers not only a wide variety of fresh sashimi but also diverse local Wakayama specialties, such as dried seafood, plums, and soy sauce, making it a great place to shop for souvenirs. Every day at noon, the market hosts a live tuna dismantling show, and many food lovers travel here specifically to taste fresh bluefin tuna sashimi. Additionally, you can have the fish and shellfish you purchase processed into sashimi on the spot, allowing you to enjoy delicious seafood right there.Wakayama City · 8.5km from downtown
Kishigawa Line-Tama Train
Operated by Wakayama Electric Railway, this approximately 14.3-kilometer line connects Wakayama Station and Kishigawa Station, with 14 stations and a journey time of approximately 30 minutes. Once on the verge of closure due to operational difficulties, it saw a turning point thanks to the appointment of "Cat Stationmaster" Tama in 2007. This female calico cat rose through the ranks from stationmaster to acting president and then chief stationmaster. After her death in 2015, she was awarded the title of "Honorary Permanent Stationmaster." Her successors, Tama II and Tama IV, continue to rotate in this capacity, becoming the line's most heartwarming symbol. The line's distinctive trains further enhance the journey, including the Tama train, featuring painted cat faces and seats with cat ears; a parent-child toy train filled with building blocks and children's books; the Tama Museum commemorative train displaying information on successive cat stationmasters; and the red and white Strawberry Tram, which operates during strawberry season. These elements together make the Kishigawa Line a popular destination for travelers seeking a relaxing time.Wakayama City · 1.9km from downtown
Universal Studios Japan
There are thrilling rides themed around Hollywood's superstar movies, fantastic performances by popular cartoon characters, and more, so everyone can have fun! Featuring the world's first Nintendo theme park, experience the world of Super Mario in an immersive way! Festive limited parades and float tours! Everyone is a protagonist in this enthusiastic parade where everyone is full of passion and vigor! Universal Studios Japan (“USJ”) in Osaka is one of the world's five Universal Studios theme parks, which opened for business in 2001 and is a classic and wonderful world of fun in the hearts of many visitors. It is similar in design to Universal Studios Orlando in the U.S., with popular parks such as Jurassic Park, Hollywood, and Waterworld, and more than 60 fun-filled attractions. With these attractions, you can enjoy a day of fun and entertainment at Universal Studios Japan. Universal Studios Japan is also home to popular themed IP parks such as “Super Nintendo World (Mario/Super Mario)”, “Minion Park” and “The Wizarding World of Harry Potter”. Whether it's interacting with the minions, riding on Mario Kart, or traveling through the Wizarding World of Hogwarts, it's an unforgettable experience that is full of excitement. △“Super Nintendo World” is the world's first Nintendo theme park built by Nintendo in cooperation with Universal Studios Japan. With the globally popular Super Mario as the protagonist, the game's Kuba Castle, Princess Brigitte's Castle, and the Mushroom Kingdom are reproduced 1:1 in a super-realistic way, providing immersive experiences of the world of Super Mario! △The “Freeze Ray Sliders” and “Despicable Me: Minion Mayhem” will get you involved in a huge farce and heat wave with the minions! The Minions have finally fulfilled their ambitions! All of humanity will be a part of the mayhem at the Minion Park! △Embracing a variety of areas with unique characteristics, wonderment and surprise, Universal Studios Japan covers a whole spectrum of world-class entertainment through thrilling rides and shows themed on blockbuster Hollywood movies, as well as seasonal events for all ages to enjoy. The Wizarding World of Harry Potter™ will reproduce the world from the Harry Potter™ stories, bringing it to life on a phenomenal scale at Universal Studios Japan.Osaka · 54km from Wakayama City
Porto Europe
PortoEuropa is a theme park featuring authentic reproduction of European architecture and street scenes. There are many amusement facilities such as roller coaster and merry-go-round in the park, and fireworks shows and character shows are popular among children.Wakayama City · 8.6km from downtown
Wakayama Marina City
Wakayama City · 8.6km from downtown
Wakayamajo Park
Wakayama City · 323m from downtown
Shikinosato Park
Shikinosato Park covers a vast area and features a rich variety of flowers and plants. Whether it's cherry blossoms in spring, sunflowers in summer, chrysanthemums in fall, or Fuji apple trees in winter, different flowers and plants bloom in every season. The sea of flowers here is breathtaking, attracting many visitors to admire and take photos. The park also has a beautiful lake with crystal-clear water, surrounded by green hills and trees. Visitors can stroll along the lakeside and experience the tranquility and beauty of nature. In addition to the flowers and the lake, Shikinosato Park offers many facilities and activities for visitors to enjoy. There is a children's play area where kids can have fun. The park also features restaurants and cafes where visitors can rest and taste local delicacies. Whether you want to enjoy the beautiful flower views or just relax, Shikinosato Park is an ideal choice.Wakayama City · 8.1km from downtown
Traveller favourites curated for you
7D6N • Japan + Osaka + Shirahama + Nachikatsuura + Ise
Explore Kuroshio Market, Yuasa soy sauce factory and Engetsu Island. Visit Shirahama coast, Kumano Nachi Taisha, Nachi Falls and Ise Jingu, plus strawberry picking and Osaka downtown. | Stay 1 night in Osaka,1 night in Shirahama,1 night in Nachikatsuura,1 night in Ise and 2 nights in Osaka. Convenient hotels provide cozy rest after sightseeing. | Kansai Airport pick-up and drop-off are arranged. Reliable private transfers connect all spots for a smooth and relaxing journey.From SGD 2,529
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Featured Culture & history in Wakayama City
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What travellers say about Wakayama City
奔放肆的旅行之家24 December 2024
5.0
The hiking experience of Kumano Kodo is very unique and unforgettable. The scenery along this ancient road is picturesque and the natural landscape is rich and diverse. During the hike, I felt the tranquility and magnificence of nature. At the same time, the facilities of this ancient road are well maintained, and the signboards are clear and concise, which provides great convenience for hikers. In addition, the local services and catering are also quite good, and the food is fresh and delicious. In general, Kumano Kodo is a hiking route that combines natural beauty and comfortable facilities. It is worth recommending to all people who love outdoor activities.
Kumano-Kodo Nakahechi Pilgrimage Route
当地向导行er9 January 2024
5.0
A very typical Japanese temple, built on a mountain with a very good view, overlooking the entire Wakayama City. It is also very convenient to take the JR. It is the Japanese New Year, and many Japanese come to worship, and it is very popular.
Kimii-dera
BiancaAriel14 September 2025
5.0
There is a post office building next to Wakayama Castle and a bus stop at the entrance of the castle. It seems to be easily accessible from JR Wakayama Station by bus. There are a zoo and a garden together in the castle, and you can find the direction of the castle keep with the sign. The admission ticket is 410 yen. I went to the observatory on a very hot day, and the cool wind blew, so I wanted to stand for a long time.
Wakayama Castle
_We***0213 November 2019
5.0
It was a pity that we missed the tuna slaughtering show, but it was nice to drink a glass of freshly squeezed Wakayama orange juice under the afternoon sun and show how happy we were. We will go there again to eat crabs today.
Kuroshio Market
Gilperez1428 October 2026
5.0
Adventure more coaster ride more option for ice cream flavors
Universal Studios Japan
Marjolaine4 November 2020
5.0
It's a relatively large park in Wakayama. I went there because I heard that a new store opened in Wakayama City. They're open until 17:00. They put coffee in a small cup, which was delicious. I bought a bread and cake set and got a 50 yen discount. Delicious.
Shikinosato Park
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