Wakayama: Sacred Journey to Kumano Hayatama and Kamikura

Wakayama Prefecture , Japan

Wakayama: Sacred Journey to Kumano Hayatama and Kamikura

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About this 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.

Available options

Wakayama: Sacred Journey to Kumano Hayatama and Kamikura

Starting point: Great Torii Gate, 1 Chome Kamihonmachi, Shingu, Wakayama 647-0003, Japan

From / To Shingū Station

From / To Shingū Station Starting point: Shingu Station Police Box, 2-chōme-1-3 Jofuku, Shingu, Wakayama 647-0020, Japan

Early Morning Tour

Early Morning Tour Starting point: Great Torii Gate, 1 Chome Kamihonmachi, Shingu, Wakayama 647-0003, Japan

What's included

Visit to sacred sites

Scenic views of Shingū and the Pacific Ocean

Knowledgeable local expert guide

Guided tour of Kumano Hayatama Taisha and Kamikura Shrine

Detailed itinerary

Kumano Hayatama Taisha, one of the Three Grand Shrines of Kumano, symbolizes rebirth and renewal. Located in the sacred town of Shingū (“new shrine”), it enshrines Hayatama-no-Ōkami, a divine form of Susanoo-no-Mikoto, the storm deity of purification and creation. According to legend, the god first descended upon the sacred boulder Gotobiki-iwa at nearby Kamikura Shrine, and this shrine was later built at the foot of the mountain for easier worship. Its vivid vermilion halls and ancient nagi tree, said to be over a thousand years old, create a serene harmony of nature and faith. Since the Heian period, emperors and pilgrims have visited here to seek renewal, making Shingū a lasting gateway to the Kumano faith.

Kamikura Shrine is an ancient sacred site on a steep mountainside overlooking Shingū and the Pacific Ocean. Its centerpiece, the massive rock Gotobiki-iwa, is believed to be where the gods first descended to earth. Visitors climb more than 500 stone steps to reach the shrine, following a path that echoes the journey from the human world to the divine. The mountaintop offers a breathtaking view that has inspired pilgrims for centuries. Each February, the dramatic Oto Matsuri festival reenacts the divine descent in a blaze of torches, celebrating the enduring link between humans, nature, and the gods.

What's not included

Transportation to and from Shingū Station

Available languages

Guide guide

Important information

Public transportation options are available nearby

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

Meeting point

If you choose the Shingū Station option, the meeting point will be in front of the Shingū Police Box (Koban) at Shingū Station. Your guide will be waiting for you with a yellow sign. Please check the map for details.

About Wakayama Prefecture

Wakayama Prefecture, located in the Kansai region of Japan, is known for its stunning natural beauty, historic temples, and the famous Koyasan (Mount Koya) pilgrimage site. With its rugged mountains, scenic coastlines, and rich cultural heritage, Wakayama offers a unique blend of traditional and natural experiences.

Top Attractions

Koyasan (Mount Koya)

A sacred Buddhist monastery town and UNESCO World Heritage site, known for its temples, graveyards, and pilgrimage routes.

Historical/Religious Full day to overnight Moderate to Expensive

Nachi Falls

One of Japan's tallest waterfalls, located near the Kumano Nachi Taisha shrine.

Nature Half day Free to view, fees for shrine and museum

Shirahama Beach

A popular beach resort area with white sand beaches, hot springs, and a scenic coastline.

Beach Full day Budget to Moderate

Kimii-dera Temple

A historic temple with beautiful gardens and panoramic views of Wakayama City.

Historical/Religious 1-2 hours Budget

Wakayama Castle

A reconstructed castle with a museum and beautiful gardens, offering insights into Wakayama's samurai history.

Historical 1-2 hours Budget

Must-Try Local Dishes

Wakayama Beef

Tender and flavorful beef, often served as sukiyaki or grilled.

Dinner Contains meat, not suitable for vegetarians or vegans.

Katsuobushi

Fermented, smoked, and dried bonito fish, used to make dashi (stock) and eaten as a topping for various dishes.

Snack/Dish Contains fish, not suitable for vegetarians or vegans.

Meharizushi

A traditional sushi dish from the Kii Peninsula, made with vinegared rice and fresh seafood or vegetables.

Lunch/Dinner Can be vegetarian if made with vegetables.

Koyasan Shojin Ryori

Buddhist vegetarian cuisine served in Koyasan, made with seasonal vegetables and tofu.

Lunch/Dinner Vegetarian and vegan options available.

Popular Activities

Hiking in Kumano Beach activities in Shirahama Adventure World amusement park Hot spring baths in Shirahama Temple lodgings in Koyasan Beach relaxation in Shirahama Temple visits in Koyasan Shrine visits in Kumano

Best Time to Visit

Spring (March to May) and Autumn (October to November)

These seasons offer pleasant weather and are ideal for outdoor activities and sightseeing. Spring brings cherry blossoms, while autumn offers beautiful foliage.

15°C to 25°C 59°F to 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. Violent crime is rare, and petty crime is uncommon.

Important Precautions:

• Be cautious when hiking or exploring remote areas, as weather conditions can change quickly.
• Carry a map or use a reliable navigation app, as some areas may have limited signage.
• Be aware of your surroundings, especially in crowded areas and tourist spots.

Getting there

By air

Kansai International Airport • 80 km from Wakayama City

By train

Wakayama Station

By bus

Wakayama Station Bus Terminal, Osaka Station Bus Terminal

Getting around

Public transport

Trains are efficient and punctual, with frequent services. The IC card (Suica, Icoca) can be used for seamless travel.

Taxis

Available • Apps: JapanTaxi

Rentals

Car, Bike, Scooter

Neighborhoods

Wakayama City Koyasan (Mount Koya) Shirahama Kumano

Day trips

Kumano Nachi Taisha and Nachi Falls

80 km from Wakayama City • Full day

A UNESCO World Heritage site featuring a stunning waterfall and an ancient Shinto shrine.

Shirahama Beach and Adventure World

100 km from Wakayama City • Full day

A popular beach resort area with white sand beaches, hot springs, and an amusement park.

Koyasan (Mount Koya)

50 km from Wakayama City • Full day to overnight

A sacred Buddhist monastery town with temples, graveyards, and pilgrimage routes.

Festivals

Koyasan Fire Festival (Goman-no-Otaki) • March 12-15 Shirahama Summer Festival • July to August Wakayama Castle Festival • April 1-30

Pro tips

Stay overnight in a temple lodging (shukubo) in Koyasan for a unique cultural experience.
Visit Nachi Falls early in the morning to avoid crowds and enjoy the serene atmosphere.
Try the local seafood in Shirahama, especially the fresh sushi and grilled fish.
Use an IC card (Suica, Icoca) for seamless travel on trains and buses in Wakayama and the Kansai region.
Learn a few basic Japanese phrases to enhance your interactions with locals and show respect for their culture.