Wakayama: Ramen Lovers’ Crawl — Two Bowls, One Night

Wakayama , Japan

Wakayama: Ramen Lovers’ Crawl — Two Bowls, One Night

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About this experience

Dive into the heart of Wakayama with a ramen pilgrimage tailored for devoted food lovers. This guided tour takes you to the birthplace of Wakayama Ramen, known for its rich pork-and-soy broth. Savor two full bowls of this iconic dish across two unique ramen shops, each with its own take on flavor and tradition. Your expert guide will lead you through this culinary journey, ensuring you not only taste but also appreciate the cultural significance of each bowl. Prepare for a feast that challenges your appetite and pays homage to a revered regional dish.

- Explore the history and flavors of Wakayama Ramen with a local guide
- Enjoy two authentic bowls at different shops, with a meal fee included
- Experience both Ide-kei and Shakomae-kei styles of ramen
- Perfect for true ramen enthusiasts looking to expand their culinary horizons

Available options

From Wakayamashi Station

From Wakayamashi Station<br/>Starting point:<br/>7-ELEVEN Wakayamashi Station Store, Japan, 640-8212 Wakayama, Suginobaba, 1-chōme４８４８番地

From JR Wakayama Station

From JR Wakayama Station<br/>Starting point:<br/>Japan, 640-8331 Wakayama, Misonochō, 5-chōme 和歌山東警察署和歌山駅前交番

What's included

Guided ramen tour

Two bowls of authentic Wakayama Ramen

Local expert guide

Detailed itinerary

Wakayama is more than a gateway to sacred mountains and coastal scenery—it’s a city where Japan’s ramen culture reveals its soulful depth. Born from humble “garage-front” stalls, Wakayama Ramen has become a culinary icon, blending pork bone richness with the sharp clarity of soy sauce. Locals call it Chuka Soba, a dish both simple and profound, enjoyed with pressed mackerel sushi and a side of nostalgia. In Wakayama, every bowl tells the story of a working-class meal elevated into an art form. To taste it is to taste the city itself—honest, bold, and quietly proud of its traditions.

What's not included

Transportation to and from the meeting point

Available languages

Guide guide

Important information

Wheelchair accessible

Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller

Public transportation options are available nearby

Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap

Specialized infant seats are available

Transportation options are wheelchair accessible

All areas and surfaces are wheelchair accessible

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

Meeting point

Meeting Point: In front of the Seven-Eleven store by Nankai Wakayamashi Station.
Your guide will be waiting for you with a yellow sign panel.
Please check the map for details.

About Wakayama

Wakayama is a coastal city in Japan known for its beautiful beaches, hot springs, and rich cultural heritage. It's home to the famous Koyasan (Mount Koya), a significant Buddhist pilgrimage site, and offers a mix of historical sites, natural beauty, and traditional Japanese experiences.

Top Attractions

Koyasan (Mount Koya)

A sacred Buddhist site and pilgrimage destination, Koyasan is home to numerous temples, including the famous Kongobu-ji and Okunoin Cemetery.

Historical/Cultural/Religious Full day Moderate to Expensive

Nanki-Shirahama Onsen

A famous hot spring resort town known for its beautiful beaches and therapeutic hot springs.

Nature/Relaxation Half day to full day Moderate

Wakayama Castle

A reconstructed castle with a museum and beautiful gardens, offering insights into the region's feudal history.

Historical/Architecture 1-2 hours Budget

Must-Try Local Dishes

Kishu Beef

Tender and flavorful beef from the Kishu region, often served as sushi or in hot pot dishes.

Dinner Contains meat, not suitable for vegetarians

Kakinoha-zushi

A local specialty of sushi wrapped in persimmon leaves, giving it a unique flavor and aroma.

Lunch/Dinner Contains fish, not suitable for vegetarians

Ishikiri Shabu-Shabu

A hot pot dish featuring thinly sliced meat and vegetables cooked in a flavorful broth.

Dinner Contains meat, can be made vegetarian

Popular Activities

Hiking in Koyasan Beach activities in Shirahama Hot spring bathing Temple stays Temple visits Traditional crafts workshops Swimming Boat tours

Best Time to Visit

March to May, September to November

These months offer pleasant weather with moderate temperatures, making it ideal for outdoor activities and sightseeing. Spring brings cherry blossoms, while autumn offers beautiful fall foliage.

15-25°C (59-77°F) 59-77°F

Practical Information

Language

Official: Japanese
Widely spoken: English (limited)
English: Limited

Currency

Japanese Yen (JPY)

Time Zone

GMT+9

Electricity

100VV, 50/60HzHz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Very safe

Wakayama is a very safe destination with low crime rates. However, as with any travel, it's important to stay aware of your surroundings and take basic precautions.

Important Precautions:

• Keep valuables secure and out of sight
• Be cautious of unlicensed taxis or guides offering services at high prices
• Follow basic safety guidelines when using public transport, such as keeping an eye on your belongings

Getting there

By air

Kansai International Airport • 60 km (37 miles)

By train

Wakayama Station

By bus

Wakayama Station Bus Terminal, Kain Line Bus Terminal

Getting around

Public transport

Efficient and punctual, with frequent services. IC cards like ICOCA can be used for easy payment.

Taxis

Available • Apps: JapanTaxi, Uber

Rentals

Car, Bike, Scooter

Neighborhoods

Wakayama City Center Koyasan Town Shirahama Town

Day trips

Koyasan (Mount Koya)

40 km (25 miles) • Full day

A sacred Buddhist site with numerous temples, cemeteries, and hiking trails.

Nanki-Shirahama Onsen

60 km (37 miles) • Half day to full day

A popular hot spring resort town with beautiful beaches and therapeutic baths.

Festivals

Koyasan Fire Festival • August 13-15 Shirahama Summer Festival • July to August

Pro tips

Visit Koyasan early in the morning to experience the peaceful atmosphere before the day-trippers arrive
Try a shukubo (temple lodging) experience for a unique and authentic cultural immersion
Sample local specialties like Kishu beef and Kakinoha-zushi at traditional restaurants
Use an IC card (like ICOCA) for convenient and seamless payment on public transportation
Pack comfortable walking shoes for exploring historical sites and natural attractions