Things to do in Wakayama Prefecture

Embark on a Memorable Kyushu Adventure Start Time: 8:00 AM Meeting Point: Lawson Fukuoka Oriental Hotel (in front of Hakata Station Chikushiguchi) Welcome aboard! Your exciting day begins as we gather at the Lawson Fukuoka Oriental Hotel 8 AM. Let’s set off on a captivating journey through Kyushu. ▼First Stop: Kumamoto Our first destination is the enchanting Shin-Kumano Shrine in Aso, Kumamoto. As we stroll along the pathway lined with nearly 100 lanterns, you’ll feel like you’ve stepped into a magical realm. This shrine, known for its serene beauty and cultural significance, is also a star in popular manga like Hotarunomori and Natsume's Book of Friends. Spend some time soaking in the peaceful atmosphere and exploring the shrine's surroundings. Afterward, we’ll marvel at the unique Wearing Rock (Tsunataki-iwa), a fascinating natural wonder with deep cultural roots. ▼Next Up: Miyazaki Our journey continues to the sacred Amano Iwato Shrine in Takachiho, Miyazaki Prefecture. This shrine is famous for its tradition of stacking stones to make wishes at the Amano Kawara, and it's deeply rooted in Japanese mythology. According to the Kojiki and Nihon Shoki, this is the very place where the sun goddess Amaterasu hid in ancient times. The shrine is a powerful site known for its healing energies and is a popular destination for those seeking good fortune and divine protection. You’ll have about 70 minutes to explore and experience the shrine’s spiritual aura. And if you’re here in July, August, or September, treat yourself to a complimentary ice cream as a special refreshment! ▼Final Destination: Takachiho Gorge Prepare to be amazed as we arrive at Takachiho Gorge. This stunning natural wonder offers about 80 minutes for you to immerse yourself in its breathtaking scenery. Take in the beauty of Manai Falls, one of Japan’s top 100 waterfalls, cascading gracefully into the river. Marvel at the Takachiho Three-Span Bridge, which showcases architectural styles from three different eras. And don’t miss the towering Sen-nin's Folding Screen Rock, a dramatic 70-meter high cliff that creates a spectacular backdrop for your exploration. Enjoy the serene landscape and have a relaxing lunch in this picturesque setting. (Please note that lunch and any additional fees are not included and will be at your own expense.) Get ready for a day filled with awe-inspiring sights, rich culture, and unforgettable moments. We’re thrilled to share this incredible adventure with you!

Discover the enchanting sites of Wakayama on this customizable journey through history, spirituality, and natural beauty. Choose between two itinerary options, one focused on Wakayama and Mount Koya, and the other that includes a visit to the breathtaking Nachi Waterfall. Option 1: Without Nachi Waterfall Start your day exploring the historic 16th-century Wakayama Castle, with panoramic views and exhibits of samurai history and artifacts. Head to Mount Koya, a sacred Buddhist site, and visit the main temple of Shingon Buddhism, Kongobuji Temple, famed for its beautiful rock garden and serene halls. Dive into the history and art of the Shingon sect at the Mount Koya Museum. Wander the tranquil lantern-lit pathways of Japan’s largest cemetery, Okunoin Cemetery, honoring historical figures and monks. Conclude the day at the dramatic coastal cave of Sandanbeki Cave, with its storied pirate hideout and rugged cliffs. Option 2: With Nachi Waterfall Begin at Japan’s spiritual heart, Mount Koya, with its UNESCO-listed temples and peaceful landscapes. Delve into the practices of Shingon Buddhism at the main temple, Kongobuji Temple, with its beautiful traditional architecture. Explore unique exhibits highlighting the sacred art and history of Shingon Buddhism at the Mount Koya Museum. Discover the 176-year-old market in Mount Koya, a hidden gem with traditional crafts and local specialties. Walk along paths lined with centuries-old stone markers in Japan’s largest cemetery, Okunoin Cemetery. End the journey at Japan’s tallest single-tier waterfall, Nachi Waterfall. Surrounded by dense forest and the Nachi Taisha Shrine, this spectacular sight combines nature and spirituality.

Explore Mount Koya in your own way with a private licensed guide. Choose the 6 or 4-hour option depending on what fits with your schedule. Let the guide know what special requests you have for the day and they will tailor your itinerary accordingly. All guides hold the nationally-licensed Tour Guide-Interpreter certification. It is issued by the Japanese government and requires a good understanding of Japanese culture and history. Meet your guide at the station near Mount Koya. The first stop will be Daimon, Koya-san’s main gate. Admire the impressive gate painted in a bright crimson color, and the large statues of guardian gods. Continue to Konpon Daito pagoda to discover Buddhist pictures and murals. Next, head to the Kongobu-ji Temple. Admire the beautiful features and architecture of the complex, such as sliding screens, art adorning the spacious rooms, and the largest rock garden in Japan. Stop for a Shoujin Ryori lunch, and experience vegetarian Buddhist cuisine. Stop at Okuno-in, the most sacred place on Mt. Koya. To reach the shrine, walk over the Ichinohashi Bridge and follow the Sandō path. Explore the famous Toro-do Hall with its "unextinguishable" flame. The final stop will be the mausoleum of Kobo Daishi, the founder of the Shingon school of Buddhism. Important Notice : The access to the Okunoin Torodo (Lantern Hall) will be suspended due to the restoration work from November 18th 2024 to End of August 2025.

Experience the stunning landscapes and rich cultural heritage of Wakayama Prefecture and Mount Koya on a private, fully customizable 10-hour tour. Whether you're a history enthusiast, a nature lover, or simply looking for a unique travel experience, this tour allows you to explore at your own pace with a knowledgeable, English-speaking guide. Begin your day with convenient pick up service directly from your accommodation in Osaka. From there, travel comfortably in a private vehicle, ensuring a personalized and stress-free journey . Your first destination could be the majestic Mount Koya, a UNESCO World Heritage site and the center of Shingon Buddhism in Japan. At Mount Koya, you can start with the impressive Daimon Gate, the iconic crimson-painted gateway guarded by towering statues . Continue to Konpon Daito, the central pagoda of Mount Koya, where you can admire its vivid Buddhist murals and serene atmosphere. Your guide will provide insights into the religious significance of this site, enhancing your understanding of Japan's spiritual traditions. Next, visit Kongobu_ji Temple, the head temple of the Shingon sect. Marvel at its exquisite architecture, delicate sliding screen paintings, and the largest rock garden in Japan. Pause to enjoy a traditional Shoujin Ryori lunch, type of vegetarian Buddhist cuisine, offering a taste of the region's culinary heritage . For a truly spiritual experience , head to Okuno-in, Mount Koya’s most sacred site. Cross the Ichinohashi Bridge and walk along the Sandō path lined with centuries-old cedar trees to reach the famous Toro-do Hall, home to the eternal flame. Visit the mausoleum of Kobo Daishi, the revered founder of Shingon Buddhism, and reflect in the tranquil surroundings. Your private tour is entirely customizable, so you can choose to visit other notable sites in Wakayama Prefecture or focus on exploring more of Mount Koya, depending on your interests. The day concludes with a comfortable return to your Osaka accommodation, leaving you with memories of a unique cultural journey through Japan.

Mount Fuji in Japan attracts tourists with its iconic stature as the country's highest peak and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Visitors are drawn to its symmetrical cone shape, breathtaking vistas from various viewpoints such as the 5th Station and Lake Kawaguchi. Additionally, the surrounding Fuji Five Lakes region offers picturesque landscapes and cultural attractions, making Mount Fuji a must-visit destination for nature lovers and adventurers. You can fully customize your own itinerary in Mount Fuji area or refer to our recommended route. If you want to customize your own tour, please select your most favorite attractions in Mount Fuji area and share your other special requests with us. We will help you plan the route, draft an itinerary and make advanced reservations if necessary. REMARKS: You can always make change to the itinerary (Within Mount Fuji area) even while traveling on the vehicle, The tour is flexible to your own needs and goals. We provide departing from 23 wards of Tokyo. (Attention: we can only pick up customers live in urban areas.). (23 wards of Tokyo: Chuo, Chiyoda, Minato, Shibuya, Shinjuku, Toshima, Taito, Meguro, Bunkyo, Shinagawa, Nakano, Setagaya, Suginami, Ota, Kita, Arakawa, Sumida, Koto, Itabashi, Nerima, Edogawa, Katsushika, Adachi) We will contact you to confirm the tour details in advance. (For example: the number of passengers and the quantity of your luggage. The luggage defaults to 24 inches. And also the starting time of the day.) One day before the trip, you will receive the phone number of your driver for your convenience. Your driver will be waiting for you at a scheduled time and you will travel comfortably to your destination. We provide customer service, please feel free to contact us by email, WhatsApp, or phone. You can't select the drivers' nationality. We have drivers speaking English/Japanese/Chinese but they are arranged at random. The vehicles' pictures are for reference only, please refer to the actual situation for details. Please note that the schedule is for reference only, and the actual itinerary may change due to factors such as traffic, passenger flow and visit time. When confirming the itinerary with the driver, you can discuss and adjust it according to the specific situation.

Amanohashidate in Miyazu Bay in the Sea of Japan in the northern part of Kyoto is one of the three most scenic spots in Japan, along with Matsushima in Mutsu and Miyajima in Aki. It is a rare terrain with about 6,700 pines on a sandbar with a width of about 20 to 170m and a total length of about 3.6km, and it is a mysterious shape created by nature over thousands of years. You can fully customize your own itinerary in Amanohashidate and Ine-cho area of Kyoto or refer to our recommended route. If you want to customize your own tour, please select your most favorite attractions in Amanohashidate and Ine-cho area and share your other special requests with us. We will help you plan the route, draft an itinerary and make advanced reservations if necessary. REMARKS: You can always make change to the itinerary (Within Amanohashidate and Ine-cho area) even while traveling on the vehicle, The tour is flexible to your own needs and goals. We provide departing from Kyoto/Osaka. (Attention: we can only pick up customers live in urban areas.). We will contact you to confirm the tour details in advance. (For example: the number of passengers and the quantity of your luggage. The luggage defaults to 24 inches. And also the starting time of the day.) One day before the trip, you will receive the phone number of your driver for your convenience. Your driver will be waiting for you at a scheduled time and you will travel comfortably to your destination. We provide customer service, please feel free to contact us by email, WhatsApp, or phone. You can't select the drivers' nationality. We have drivers speaking English/Japanese/Chinese but they are arranged at random. The vehicles' pictures are for reference only, please refer to the actual situation for details. Please note that the schedule is for reference only, and the actual itinerary may change due to factors such as traffic, passenger flow and visit time. When confirming the itinerary with the driver, you can discuss and adjust it according to the specific situation.

Explore the pilgrimage site of Mt. Koya on a guided, private day tour. This small, secluded temple town is known as the center of Shingon Buddhism, a significant sect that was introduced to Japan in 805 A.D. by Kobo Daishi, also known as Kukai. Marvel at the array of temples on your tour. Begin your tour at Koyasan Station, where you'll meet your guide. From there, head up to the wooded mountaintop and enter through the sacred gate of Daimon. Admire the structure, which reaches an impressive 21.5 meters in height. Continue onwards toward Kongobuji, the head temple of Shingon Buddhism. Kobo Daishi began construction on the original Garan temple complex in 826 A.D. In 1593, Toyotomi Hideyoshi built this structure to commemorate the death of his mother; the temple was later merged with the Shingon sect. Venture further along the streets of temples to reach the temple Okunoin. This sacred place is the site of Kobo Daishi's mausoleum. Follow the quiet paths through the verdant forest and reflect on the spirituality of the historic temple grounds. . Lunch is not included. You can either prepare lunch before the tour or buy it during the tour.

Experience the stunning landscapes and rich cultural heritage of Wakayama Prefecture and Mount Koya on a private, fully customizable 10-hour tour. Whether you're a history enthusiast, a nature lover, or simply looking for a unique travel experience, this tour allows you to explore at your own pace with a knowledgeable, English-speaking guide. Begin your day with convenient pick up service directly from your accommodation in Osaka. From there, travel comfortably in a private vehicle, ensuring a personalized and stress-free journey. Your first destination could be the majestic Mount Koya, a UNESCO World Heritage site and the center of Shingon Buddhism in Japan. At Mount Koya, you can start with the impressive Daimon Gate, the iconic crimson-painted gateway guarded by towering statues. Continue to Konpon Daito, the central pagoda of Mount Koya, where you can admire its vivid Buddhist murals and serene atmosphere. Your guide will provide insights into the religious significance of this site, enhancing your understanding of Japan's spiritual traditions. Next, visit Kongobu-ji Temple, the head temple of the Shingon sect. Marvel at its exquisite architecture, delicate sliding screen paintings, and the largest rock garden in Japan. Pause to enjoy a traditional Shoujin Ryori lunch, type of vegetarian Buddhist cuisine, offering a taste of the region's culinary heritage.

Join us on a full-day journey to Mount Koya, a spiritual and cultural gem of Japan! Starting from Osaka, we’ll take a scenic train ride through the countryside, offering views of the contrast between the bustling city and the serene nature, before ascending the mountain via a cable car. Our exploration begins at the grand Daimon Gate, the entrance to Mount Koya and the Spirit World. Then, we’ll visit the Danjo Garan, a key site of the Shingon Buddhist Sect since the 9th century, and the Kongobu-ji Temple, founded by the famous military dictator Hideyoshi Toyotomi. We’ll end our visit at the Oku no In, Japan’s largest cemetery, home to 200,000 tombs and the mausoleum of Kobo Daishi. This day will immerse you in Japan’s rich history, culture, and spirituality. Don't miss this unforgettable experience!

Wakayama, not far from Osaka, is also a great tourist destination, and today we will travel to Wakayama to explore the abode of the gods - Nachisan. In the morning, our professional driver will pick you up at the door of your hotel to start your journey. From Osaka/Kyoto, the drive will be close to 4 hours, but most of the drive will be spent cruising along the picturesque coastline, which is exciting. When you arrive at Nanchisan, you can choose your own route according to the local recommended sightseeing routes. We recommend a regular route that is suitable for all people. First we arrive at Daimonzake, a path that, according to Japanese legend, leads to the abode of the gods. Follow the stone steps, we will pass a roughly 600-meter-long, cobblestone path, part of the Kumano Kodo Pilgrimage Route, which is listed as one of the two sacred places in Japan that must be visited in this lifetime. Of course, you can also choose to rent a traditional Heian-period costume and slowly climb the 267 steps for a pilgrimage. Then, halfway up the mountain, we come to the Kumano Nachi Taisha Shrine, where the goddess Musubinokami is worshipped, symbolizing the god of marriage protection, and you can experience the Japanese Shinto culture here. Finally, we will arrive at the most beautiful scenic spots of the sacred Nachisan, Seigantoji Temple and Nachi Waterfall. The temple is a Buddhist temple, but it was originally integrated with Kumano Nachi Taisha Shrine before it was forced to split for political reasons. The waterfall, which has long been believed to be the abode of the gods, is the largest waterfall in Japan with a drop of 133 meters, and the nearby Seigantoji Temple is considered a great waterfall viewing spot. You don't have to rush your day trip, just relax and enjoy your time in Nachisan. We will return to your hotel before evening. Our trip will also end here, and we hope you will have good memories. If there are other places you would like to explore, we will be in touch with you after the booking.