my wife and I recently visited Wakayama, a city on the Kii Peninsula in Japan, where we fell in love with. It’s a gem that’s not as crowded as other popular destinations in Japan, making it a perfect place to relax and enjoy the beauty of nature.
Getting There
To get to Wakayama, we took a train from Osaka, which took about an hour. The train ride was comfortable, and the scenery along the way was breathtaking. I recommend getting a Japan Rail Pass if you plan to travel around Japan, as it can save you a lot of money.
Accommodation
We stayed at a traditional Japanese inn called a ryokan, which was an amazing experience. The room was spacious, and we had our own private onsen (hot spring) in the bathroom. The staff was friendly and helpful, and they served us a delicious kaiseki (multi-course) dinner in our room. The cost was around 20,000 yen per person per night, which is a bit pricey, but it was worth it for the unique experience.
Food
Wakayama is famous for its seafood, and we had some of the freshest and most delicious sushi and sashimi during our visit. We also tried the local specialty, kuroge wagyu beef, which was melt-in-your-mouth tender and flavorful. The cost of food in Wakayama is relatively affordable, with a meal for two costing around 5,000 yen.
Attractions
Wakayama Castle is a must-visit attraction in the city. The castle was originally built in the 16th century and has been rebuilt several times due to fires and wars. The castle tower offers a panoramic view of the city, and the gardens are beautiful, especially during cherry blossom season. The entrance fee is 400 yen.
Another place that we visited was the Kii Mountains, which is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The mountains are home to several sacred sites and pilgrimage routes, and we hiked one of the trails, which offered stunning views of the surrounding mountains and the ocean. The hike was relatively easy, and we didn’t encounter many other tourists, making it a peaceful and enjoyable experience.
If you’re a fan of manga and anime, you’ll be interested to know that Wakayama is the birthplace of Osamu Tezuka, the father of manga. There’s a museum dedicated to his work, which features original drawings, animation cells, and other exhibits. The entrance fee is 700 yen.
Tips
Here are some tips for visiting Wakayama:
- Wear comfortable shoes, as you’ll be doing a lot of walking.
- Bring cash, as some places don’t accept credit cards.
- Learn some basic Japanese phrases, as not many people speak English.
- Respect local customs and traditions.
- Stay hydrated and protect yourself from the sun, especially during the summer months.
Health and Safety
Wakayama is a safe city, but it’s always important to take precautions when traveling. Here are some health and safety tips:
- Bring any necessary medication with you, as it may be difficult to find in Wakayama.
- Use hand sanitizer and wash your hands frequently, especially before eating.
- Avoid drinking tap water, as it may contain bacteria that your body is not used to.
- Be aware of your surroundings, especially at night.
- Keep your belongings close to you, and avoid displaying expensive items in public.
Conclusion
Wakayama is a beautiful and charming city that’s worth visiting if you’re planning a trip to Japan. The food is delicious, the attractions are fascinating, and the people are friendly and hospitable. We had a wonderful time there, and we can’t wait to go back.
If you have any questions or need more information, feel free to ask. I’m always happy to help.