All Wakayama Prefecture Tours & Excursions in 2026

Discover the spiritual heart of the Kumano region, where nature and faith intertwine. Led by a local expert, visit the revered Kumano Hongu Taisha shrine, a key site on the UNESCO-listed Kumano Kodo pilgrimage routes. Learn about the ancient Shugendō tradition and the significance of purification rituals at the temizuya. Walk through centuries-old cedar trees, delve into the stories of the Three Deities of Kumano, and explore the sacred site of Ōyunohara, marked by a massive torii gate. An optional early-morning tour offers a serene experience, enveloping you in the tranquility of dawn. - Guided exploration of Kumano Hongu Taisha and its spiritual significance - Learn about the Shugendō mountain ascetic tradition - Visit the historic site of Ōyunohara with its grand torii gate - Optional early-morning tour for a peaceful encounter with nature

Gastronomy: The Cuisine of Nachikatsuura and Kumano We carefully explain the eating habits and traditions related to the ingredients, as well as the deep history of this land, providing a unique dinner experience where you can engage with the food culture through one-on-one dialogue with our guests. We offer you a special culinary experience, born from the climate and local character of Kumano and Nachikatsuura, nurtured by the ingredients, eating habits, food traditions, and culinary history of this region.

This private evening tour lets you experience southern Wakayama beyond its famous shrines, pilgrimage routes, hot springs, and coastal scenery. Choose Shingu, Kii-Katsuura, or Kushimoto depending on where you are staying, then explore two local izakayas or bars selected around your food, drink, and atmosphere preferences. Unlike a fixed restaurant tour, the evening is shaped around your group. Your guide helps with menus, ordering, and Japanese izakaya customs, making it easier to enjoy small local establishments that may be difficult to navigate independently. It is a simple way to turn an evening in the Kumano region into a more personal local experience.

Explore the spiritual heart of Kumano on a captivating tour that immerses you in the rich history and sacred traditions of the Kumano faith. Visit Kumano Hayatama Taisha, known for its themes of rebirth and renewal, and Kamikura Shrine, where the gods are believed to have descended. Guided by a local expert, this tour offers insights into the ancient pilgrimage routes and the significance of each shrine. Experience the tranquil beauty of these revered sites, surrounded by the natural wonders of the forest and mountains. - Visit Kumano Hayatama Taisha, a shrine dedicated to renewal and vitality. - Ascend to Kamikura Shrine with stunning views of Shingū and the Pacific Ocean. - Choose from several tour options, including early-morning tranquility. - Benefit from a knowledgeable guide who shares the legends and history of this sacred region.

Discover the spiritual heart of Japan on a private 2-hour walking tour of Okunoin, the largest sacred cemetery in the country. Guided by a Kongobuji-certified expert, traverse the full 3km pilgrimage route from Ichinohashi Bridge to Kobo Daishi's Mausoleum. This immersive experience reveals the rich symbolism and legends unique to this UNESCO sanctuary. Witness the rare morning Shojin-ku ritual and learn about the esoteric Buddhist practices that have flourished for over a millennium. Perfect for families and curious travelers, this tour offers a personalized pace, deep cultural insights, and no crowds to rush you. - Private tour with expert guide, certified by Kongobuji Temple - Full 3km route from Ichinohashi to Nakanohashi - Exclusive opportunity to observe the Shojin-ku ritual on morning tours - Tailored experience for families, friends, and all curious travelers

• English-speaking staff ensure clear communication and a smooth experience for international guests • Small group sizes for personal attention and a relaxed, unhurried pace underwater • Tailored dive plans based on each diver’s skill level, interests, and comfort • Support available for underwater photography, including camera rentals and photo tips • Discover the rich marine biodiversity of Kushimoto—ideal for both wide-angle and macro photography • Flexible and friendly team focused on safety, comfort, and memorable dives • All-inclusive setup: no need to bring your own gear—everything is provided • Convenient access from JR Kushimoto Station and free parking at the dive shop • Relax between dives at the shop with shower facilities and indoor rest areas

Unlike a fixed restaurant tour, this private experience is shaped around your tastes and where you are staying in Nanki Wakayama. Choose either Tanabe or Shirahama, then explore two local izakayas or bars selected according to your food, drink, and atmosphere preferences. The tour offers a closer look at everyday evening culture in southern Wakayama, from the local dining streets of Tanabe to the relaxed resort atmosphere of Shirahama. Your guide helps with menus, ordering, and Japanese izakaya customs, making local venues easier to enjoy. A total of ¥3,000 per guest for food and drinks is included, so you can focus on discovering the flavors and atmosphere of the Nishimuro area without arranging restaurants yourself.

Discover the Kumano Kodo, a UNESCO World Heritage Site that embodies a sacred pilgrimage path through Japan's misty Kii Peninsula mountains. This guided walk from Hosshinmon-oji to Kumano Hongu Taisha allows you to immerse yourself in the beauty of nature while learning about the Kumano faith. Traverse serene cedar forests, visit tranquil sub-shrines, and experience the journey as a form of prayer. With insights from your local guide, each step leads you deeper into the spiritual heartland, culminating at one of Japan’s most revered Shinto shrines. - Explore a UNESCO World Heritage Site on a guided walk - Visit sacred shrines and tranquil sub-shrines along the route - Gain insights into the Kumano faith and its connection to nature - Ideal for spiritual seekers and nature enthusiasts alike

Enjoy an authentic Zen experience. You can practice Zazen (seated meditation) under careful guidance at a temple situated on a hill with a beautiful view. For those unable to sit in the traditional cross-legged posture, we recommend "chair Zazen." We host this session in the hope of enriching your journey—offering a deeper spiritual experience through meditation—before you tackle the climactic sections of the Kumano Kodo World Heritage route 15:30 – Check-in begins Served: Matcha green tea and Japanese sweets, followed by a choice of Japanese tea, water, coffee, or black tea. Around 16:00 Talk on the Kumano Kodo, Zen meditation, and a Dharma message. 16:30 – 17:20 – Zen meditation experience. Afterwards – Q&A session (time permitting). While the guiding monk is not fluent in English, he will provide attentive and thorough guidance using a translation device. We hope you will take this opportunity to experience it for yourself.

Enjoy the unique experience of practicing dry suit diving in Kushimoto, Wakayama, home to the northernmost coral reefs in the world. This program includes one beach dive and one boat dive, perfect for improving buoyancy control and comfort in a dry suit under the guidance of an experienced instructor. Ideal for certified divers who want to gain confidence in cooler waters, the course combines skill practice with the beauty of Kushimoto’s vibrant underwater scenery.

- Experience the auction (bidding system) up close with an official guide from the second floor of either Auction Hall 1 or Auction Hall 2 at Katsuura Regional Wholesale Market - Local guides will provide you detailed explanations of the action happening right before your eyes - Use earphone guides for a safe and secure experience - Luxury sushi breakfast exclusive to the auction tour

Official Tour Curated by the Wakayama City Tourism Association Tour Overview On this guided night tour, we will visit 3 authentic local izakayas and eateries around JR Wakayama Station. Wakayama is a treasure trove of fresh ingredients. You will savour a generous full dinner featuring fresh seafood, tuna and regional specialities made with Kishu Ume (Japanese plums), perfectly paired with local sake or plum wine. More than just a food tour, this is a cultural immersion. Kansai locals are known for being friendly and welcoming. Your guide will help you break the ice, so you can enjoy lively conversations with the locals sitting next to you! The tour concludes with a bowl of exquisite Wakayama Ramen (rich pork broth with locally brewed soy sauce) – the classic Japanese way to end a night out.

In this plan, you will craft authentic silver jewelry made from high-quality sterling silver (Silver 950). You can handcraft a special, memorable item to treasure, such as a silver ring, a traditional silver pick, or a silver keychain. Experience the same steps as a professional artisan—from cutting the silver sheet to shaping and hardening the metal through traditional forging (Tankin), and soldering with fire (Rozuke). It is a hands-on opportunity to learn traditional Japanese craftsmanship.