Wakayama Prefecture

Pilgrimage routes, temples, and coastal adventure.

Quiet, grave and lantern lined path of Okunoin Cemetery

Wakayama Prefecture (和歌山県, Wakayama-ken) is located in the Kansai region of Japan, on the Kii Peninsula, facing the Pacific Ocean. It’s a place where natural beauty, spiritual heritage, and coastal culture all intersect. Despite its proximity to Osaka, it’s often overlooked by international tourists, making it a rewarding destination for those seeking something off the beaten path.

 

One of the unique experiences in Wakayama is Shukubo, where visitors can stay overnight in temple lodgings, join morning prayers, and explore the sacred town of Koyasan.

Ramen lovers should try Wakayama Ramen (also called Chuka Soba), a pork-soy broth ramen with local noodles and rice side dishes.

Explore Wakayama

The walking path through Okunoin Cemetery at Koyasan, with a couple of people walk ahead

Koyasan

Japan's Sacred Temple Town

Kumano Hongu Taisha Otorii

Kumano Hongu Taisha

Sacred Kumano shrine surrounded by mountains and ancient pilgrimage trails.

Quiet, grave and lantern lined path of Okunoin Cemetery

Okunoin Cemetery

Japan's Sacred Forest Cemetery

Seiganto-ji Pagoda with Nachi falls in the background, Wakayama Prefecture

Seiganto-ji & Nachi Waterfalls

Iconic Temple and waterfall

Koyasan temple Lodging Monks

Temple Lodging

Stay overnight in a Buddhist temple

Explore Wakayama

Top Attractions

Quiet, grave and lantern lined path of Okunoin Cemetery

Okunoin Cemetery

Japan's Sacred Forest Cemetery

Seiganto-ji Pagoda with Nachi falls in the background, Wakayama Prefecture

Seiganto-ji & Nachi Waterfalls

Iconic Temple and waterfall

The walking path through Okunoin Cemetery at Koyasan, with a couple of people walk ahead

Koyasan

Japan's Sacred Temple Town

Wakayama Castle

Wakayama Castle

Castle reconstruction in Wakayama City

Kumano Hongu Taisha Otorii

Kumano Hongu Taisha

Sacred Kumano shrine surrounded by mountains and ancient pilgrimage trails.

Explore more Travel Tips & Articles

Scroll to Top