7 Amazing Things to Do in Wakayama, Japan (Temples, Castles & Hidden Gems)

Looking for the best things to do in Wakayama, Japan? From spiritual temples and ancient castles to white-sand beaches and off-the-beaten-path adventures, Wakayama Prefecture is a must-visit destination in Japan’s Kansai region.

Wakayama Prefecture is a historical and spiritual centre of Japan. Located on the Kii Peninsula, south of Osaka in the Kansai region, Wakayama plays host to some of the most scenic spots in Japan, including the well-known Kumano Kodo pilgrimage route the holy mountain Koyasan, and many other attractions. As well as the world-famous Wakayama Castle, Wakayama also hosts Mount Koya or Koyasan, one of Japan’s most sacred and most beautiful places – one place that definitely needs to be on your bucket list. It is said that Wakayama is Japan’s spiritual heartland because of the area’s numerous, well-known religious sites and the extensive network of hiking trails that lead to the Kumano Kodo pilgrimage site. Shirahama beach, onsen resorts, beautiful natural scenery, and inhabited islands are just some of the other popular destinations in the prefecture. Listed below are some of the best attractions in Wakayama Prefecture that I can 100% vouch for!

1.  Wakayama Castle (和歌山城)

Wakayama Castle was built in 1585, opened to the public in 1867, destroyed during World War II and rebuilt in 1958. It is a symbol of Wakayama city and was designated as a national treasure in 1935.  Still need more convincing?

The castle sits at the mouth of the Kii River in Wakayama City and makes a perfect place to visit if you’re staying in the city. While the original structure was built in 1585, much of the current infrastructure was reconstructed in 1958 after World War II. Only the Okaguchi Gate and the stone walls of the original castle are left. There is still an original moat and stone wall around Wakayama Castle, which overlooks the city from its perch. As one of the best castles in Japan, it is especially beautiful in the spring, when the cherry trees are at their peak of bloom. Matcha green tea can be found in a teahouse in the nearby Momijidani Japanese Garden, which is especially lovely in the autumn.

It is also possible to visit the castle museum, which is located inside the castle’s main building and contains a collection of historical artefacts.  You can also visit the Wakayama Museum of Modern Art in the castle grounds, which houses an impressive collection of Japanese and Western contemporary art. Nishi-no-Maru Garden, built in the 17th century, features a pond as well as a waterfall.

Wakayama Castle opens from 9 a.m. to 5.30 p.m. and has a ¥410 yen entry fee.

Some of  Wakayama’s best seafood and Wakayama-themed souvenirs can be found in the Kuroshio neighbourhood near the castle. If you’re a fan of hot springs, the Kishu Kuroshio Onsen is a great place to relax and unwind after a long day of sightseeing.

You can find out more information on Wakayama Castle here.

2. Kimiidera Temple (紀三井寺)

A major tourist attraction during cherry blossom season, Kimiidera Temple is a popular place to visit especially in spring. It was built in 770 and has a striking red facade that stands out against the surrounding green mountains. Kimiidera Temple is a striking example of Buddhist architecture and is the most revered temple in Wakayama, even said to have been visited by emperors.

The early blooming cherry blossoms at this temple are well-known hence it’s a popular place to go in early spring. This temple is close to Wakayama city, only a couple of stops away from Wakayama station. Take the Kisei Line to Kimiidera station, with the temple only a short walk away.

3. Wakayama Dentetsu

Do you know a cat that has a better job than you? Well Tama is the super-station master along the Wakayama Dentetsu’s Kishigawa Line. When you board the train you’re’ greeted by this furry station master, and she even has her own themed café!

From Wakayama Station to Kishi Station, the Wakayama Electric Railway serves as a branch line and is known for its Station Master cats. On certain days of the week, visitors are able to peer into the enclosures of the current feline residents. There are four different themed trains that run on a rotating basis. There are several sites to see along the route, despite the fact that the train line passes through rural territory. Whether you’re a cat lover or a train enthusiast, the Wakayama Electric Railway is an excellent way to get away from the city’s hustle and bustle.

You can find out more info from the official website here.

4. Tomogashima Island (友ヶ島)

Like exploring abandoned places, then make sure you visit Tomogashima! An abandoned military fort complete with batteries, ruins, a lighthouse and stunning scenery. It also resembles the Studio Ghibli movie ‘Castle in the sky’.

Tomogashima is a lot less well-known, and even many native Japanese people aren’t aware of this great day trip not far from Osaka Kyoto’s bustling cities. We were tipped off by a friend of a friend, and were so glad to find and explore this hidden gem. In this area, you won’t find many tourists, but you’ll find a few locals and older Japanese people who like to go hiking or water-colouring, or independent travellers (like me!). The island you’ll be visiting is actually known as Okinoshima Island. It’s an abandoned military base, with fortresses and battery sites built by the Japanese Army in the 1890s to protect Osaka Bay during the Meiji period (1868-1912).

5. Nachi Waterfall / Daimon-zaka / Kumano Nachi Taisha

In Japan, one of the most well-known waterfalls is the Nachi Waterfall. The highest waterfall cascade in Japan, Hirou Gongen, is revered as a Shinto deity because of its 133-meter height – the country’s tallest single uninterrupted waterfall.
The Shinto shrine at Nachi Falls, Kumano Nachi Taisha, is part of the UNESCO World Heritage Sacred Sites and Pilgrimage Routes in Japan’s Kii Mountain Range, along with the nearby Buddhist temple Nachisan Seiganto-ji Tenda. Japan’s harmonious mix of Shintoism and Buddhism is exemplified by the close proximity of both shrines and temples to the enormous waterfall.
One of the most iconic, scenic and photographed spots in Japan is the three-story vermilion pagoda Daimon-zaka with the falls directly behind.
Walking to Nachi waterfall you pass through Japanese cedars, camphors, and bamboo, creating a serene surreal environment.

6. Kumano Kodo Pilgrimage Trails (熊野古道)

There is a network of pilgrimage trails in the southern Kansai region known as Kumano Kodo. For over a thousand years, the Kodo (“old ways”) have been an important part of the region’s UNESCO designation. They are one of two in the world pilgrimage routes to be designated a world heritage site.
The pilgrimage routes on the Kii Peninsula grew out of the need for people to travel between sacred sites. It is said that Kumano Sanzan is made up of three shrines, Hongu Taisha, Hayatama Taisha and Nachi Taisha, located in the heart of this religious area.
There are four main routes that run through Kyoto, Koyasan (the headquarters of Shingon Buddhism – see below), Yoshino & Omine (mountain-worship centres), and Ise Japan’s holiest shrine): the Kodo pilgrimage trails.
Coastal trails have largely been obliterated by development, but there are still a few mountain trails and passes. Stopping at one of the main temples or anywhere along the pilgrimage trails is definitely worth it.

7. Mt Koya / Koyasan (高野山)

Kukai the monk, later known as Kobo Daishi, built a large monastery complex known as Mount Koya in 819 which became the heart of Shingon Buddhism. At the centre of Koyasan is Okunoin Temple, home Kukai’s mauseoleum. Large cedar forests surround Okunoin (奥の院), which is home to a cemetery with the mausoleums of many famous Japanese people, including Toyotomi Hideyoshi, who was the samurai ruler of Japan at the time. Okunoin is one Japan’s most sacred places and a popular pilgrimage destination, and it marked the culmination of an incredible adventure along the Kumano Kodo pilgrimage.

The total area of Koyasan is relatively large and it was home to more than 2,000 temples during the Edo period (1603-1868), but only 117 of them remain today. About half of the mountain’s temples now serve as shukubo lodgings, where guests can spend the night, dine on vegetarian fare prepared by monks, and participate in morning prayers. This has to be one of the top 3 experiences you can do in Japan. As part of staying at a buddhist temple, you get to go on a midnight tour through the cemetery which is incredible.

In 2004, the UNESCO listed Mount Koya and its associated sites as a World Heritage Site. For more information or the different temple lodgings, visit here.

Bonus Spot: Shirahama (白浜町)

Living in Osaka, I definitely missed the beach in summer so spent quite a few summer days exploring the best beaches in Osaka and Kansai – one of which is Shirahama.

According to local legend, the beach’s white sand was imported from Australia, hence the name “white beach,” which translates to “sparkling beach” in Japanese. It’s Kansai’s prettiest beach, if not the prettiest in Japan. The 600-meter-long curved beach is home to a number of hotels with direct access to the ocean.

Shirahama is also known as a hot springs resort because of its well-developed infrastructure. Wakayama’s coastline features more than 600 kilometres of beaches, many of which have fine, white sand yet Shirahama still remains a favourite for Japanese residents and tourists alike. The swimming season is at its busiest in the months of July and August, and accommodation prices understandably increase during these times.

Conclusion: Why Wakayama Belongs on Your Japan Itinerary

Wakayama is a magical blend of spiritual heritage, breathtaking nature, and coastal charm—offering something for every kind of traveller. Whether you’re hiking ancient pilgrimage trails, soaking in Shirahama’s hot springs, or discovering hidden islands like Tomogashima, each experience adds a new layer to your Japan journey. Easy to access from Osaka or Kyoto, Wakayama is the perfect side trip or standalone destination that delivers history, serenity, and unforgettable views. Add it to your travel list—you won’t regret it.