Independent travel and review of Wakayama city History of Wakayama City! Wakayama City (к大) is the administra...
Wakayama City (к大) is the administrative center of Wakayama Prefecture on Honshu Island. Its history is long, rich and closely related to both Buddhist traditions and the samurai era. Below is a detailed, structured description of the development of the city from antiquity to the present.
Ancient period and spiritual roots of the region
Mountain shrines and early settlement
The territory of today's Wakayama was inhabited in ancient times, but the city itself was formed later. Near it, in the depths of the Ki гор mountains, are two of the most important shrines of Japanese Buddhism:
Koya Mountain is the center of the esoteric school of Shingon Buddhism founded by the monk Kukai (Kobo Daishi) in 816.
The Kiни region was considered sacred, and pilgrimage there played a huge role in Japanese culture.
Although Koya-san is not located in the city of Wakayama, it is the spiritual importance of this area that has become the main factor in the development of the region.
The Middle Ages and the formation of the city (XVI-XVII centuries)
Construction of Wakayama Castle
The birth of the city in its usual form is associated with the period of military rulers - shoguns.
In 1585, the great unifier of Japan, Toyotomi Hideyoshi, commissioned his brother, Toyotomi Hidenaga, to build a fortress at a strategic location near the Kino River.
Thus appeared the castle Wakayama (Wakayama-jō), around which gradually grew the castle city.
Era Tokugawa
After the fall of the Toyotomi family, power passed to the Tokugawa clan, and Wakayama became one of their most important possessions.
At the beginning of the XVII century, the castle became the residence of a branch of the family - Kishu-Tokugawa.
One of the representatives of this branch, Tokugawa Yoshimune, later became the eighth shogun of Japan.
Under Tokugawa, the city grew rapidly:
trade through the port,
crafts flourished.
The city became the center of political and military administration of the Ki. region.
The Edo Period (1603–1868)
Wakayama was a typical “seaside castle town”, but due to its proximity to Kyoto and an important branch, Tokugawa enjoyed privileged status.
Significant features of the time:
a developed network of temples and gardens,
active maritime trade through Wakura (now the port of Wakayama)
production of lacquer products, paper, textiles,
Strengthening infrastructure – roads, bridges, canals.
The Meiji Era (1868–1912): Industrial Transition
After the Meiji Restoration:
The feudal domains were abolished and Wakayama became the center of the new Wakayama Prefecture.
the development of industry, especially textile and fish processing;
Railways were built and ports were modernized.
The city gradually turned from a castle center into an industrial one.
Wakayama during World War II
In 1945, the city was subjected to one of the most devastating US bombings on Honshu (along with Toyota, Hiroshima, Hamamatsu).
On July 9, 1945, about 50% of the city was destroyed by fire.
Wakayama Castle was seriously damaged and was later restored (in 1958) in reinforced concrete version with preservation of historical appearance.
Modern Wakayama (after 1945)
After the war, the city was actively rebuilt:
Economy
food industry (especially pickled plums of ume and tangerines from the Aragawa region),
production of chemicals and metals,
shipbuilding and fishing,
tourism and pilgrimage to Koya-san and Kumano Kodo.
Culture and tourism
Wakayama Castle is the main symbol of the city, the most important historical monument,
temples of Kimiya-der, Tamatori-himejinja,
beaches and ports, including the port of Kainazaki,
traditional festivals such as Wakayama Kasukabe Matsuri.
Transportation
The city is connected by rail to Osaka and Nara, and also has ferry services (for example, the Wakayama-Tokushima ferry on Shikoku Island).
The city of Wakayama is a place where the ancient samurai atmosphere combines with the sea air, quiet temples and mild southern climate. This is an ideal destination for travelers who want to see the “real Japan” – calm, beautiful, cozy and spiritual, away from the noisy metropolises.
Wakayama, the city where Japan is revealed in a new way
Imagine a city where a majestic castle towers over green hills, where the streets smell of citrus gardens, and the ancient path of pilgrims begins nearby. Wakayama is one of those parts of the country where people come for peace of mind, beautiful views and atmosphere of ancient Japan.
The main pearl is Wakayama Castle
The castle is the calling card of the city. It stands on a hill and is visible from almost everywhere.
Why it's impressive:
snow-white walls and elegant towers in the style of the Edo period,
panoramic view of the city and the bay,
paved paths, ancient stone walls and beautiful gates,
In spring, a sea of pink cherry blossoms turns the castle into a postcard.
The castle is especially good at sunset when the whole city is immersed in the soft golden glow.
The atmosphere of silence: temples and shrines
Kimiya-der temple
Located on a hill overlooking the sea,
Especially beautiful in spring, it is one of the best places for early cherry blossoms.
Kamayama Hime Shrine
associated with the myths of the goddess Izanami,
surrounded by dense forests, ideal for leisurely walks.
These places give the traveler the main thing - a sense of peace, which is sometimes so lacking in large cities.
Sea, beaches and recreation
Wakayama is a coastal city with a mild climate. Here you can combine cultural recreation with sea.
Best seats:
Shirahama Beach
One of the most popular resorts in the region:
snow-white sand
warm waters,
Onsen resorts with ocean views.
Port of Kainazaki
Ideal for romantic walks and fresh seafood. There are also ferries to the islands.
Gateway to the World of Spiritual Japan – Koya-san and Kumano
Wakayama is a convenient base for traveling through the sacred mountains of Kiам.
Mount Koya (Koya-san)
One of the most mystical places in Japan,
ancient cedars, monasteries with overnight stays (shukobo),
Evening fiery rites and morning Buddhist prayers.
Kumano Kodo
One of the few pilgrimage routes in the world, included in UNESCO. The trails pass through forests, waterfalls and ancient villages – a real adventure for those who love nature and history.
A city that smells like sea and citrus
Wakayama is famous for its simple but exquisite cuisine. The taste of the city is:
fresh sushi and sashimi,
vinegar plums ume - a local delicacy,
Mandarin mikans that grow literally everywhere.
Ramen "Wakayama" - saturated, dense, warming.
Almost every tourist leaves here with a bag of citrus and a jar of pickled plums.
City one hour away from Osaka
Wakayama is ideal for travelers who want to:
escape from the crowd
spend 1-2 days in a cozy seaside town,
You can see historical Japan without fuss.
From Osaka you can get here by train in just 60-70 minutes - and the atmosphere is quite different.
1. Comfortable hotels (average and above average)
These are modern hotels with good amenities, spacious rooms, delicious breakfasts and a convenient location near transport and attractions. Ideal for those who want comfort and cleanliness without overpaying for luxury.
Examples:
Candeo Hotels Wakayama
Stylish design, covered onsen on the roof overlooking the city, convenient location near the station.
Daiwa Roynet Hotel Wakayama
A tall building next to the castle, spacious rooms, many with beautiful views of the city and the historic district.
2. Cozy traditional ryokans
If you want to feel the Japanese atmosphere, this is the best option. Rooms with tatami and futon, kaiseki-style dinners, relaxing baths and a calm atmosphere.
Example:
Kancho Ryokan (Waka-no-Ura district) Located near the sea, quiet, very Japanese in spirit. Ideal for rest for 1-2 nights.
3. Onsen hotels (mountains and surroundings of Wakayama)
For those who travel around the Ki регион region and want to combine a holiday in hot springs with an overnight stay.
Example:
Ryūjin Onsen (Ryudzin District)
Ancient Ryokans surrounded by mountains and forest. A great choice for a relaxing, relaxing holiday.
4. Budget options: hostels and guesthouses
Suitable for economical travelers, those who move a lot or travel alone.
Example:
Suzumaru Hotel / hostels near the station
Affordable prices, clean rooms, pleasant home atmosphere. A great option if savings are important.
1. Wakayama Castle (Wakayama-jō)
The main symbol of the city is the snow-white castle of the Edo era on the top of the hill.
What to see:
panoramas of the city and the bay with towers,
museum inside the castle,
Spring is one of the best places for hanami (cherry blossoms),
Japanese gardens and ancient gates.
How to get there:
From Wakayamashi station - about 10-15 minutes on foot.
From JR Wakayama Station – 10 minutes by bus or 25-30 minutes on foot.
2. Kimiidera Temple (Kimiidera)
Known for early cherry blossoms - here you can see flowering in early March. The temple is located on a hill with a magnificent view of Vakaura Bay.
What to see:
A large gilded statue of Cannon,
traditional pavilions in the mountains,
observation decks.
How to get there:
From JR Wakayama Station, 10 minutes by bus.
Walk from Kimiidera Station (about 15 minutes uphill).
3. Wakaura Bay (Wakaura Bay)
A picturesque coastal area, known since ancient times as a place of inspiration for poets and artists.
What to see:
family beach and promenade,
Observation decks in Fujisan and Saigyo,
beautiful views at sunset.
How to get there:
Bus from Wakayamashi or JR Wakayama (15-20 min)
You can also get by bike from the center in 20-25 minutes.
4. Kamayama Shrine (Kumano Kamayama Shrine)
One of the oldest Shinto shrines in the region, associated with myths about the goddess Izanami.
What to see:
Atmospheric forest around the temple,
ancient stone objects,
Beautiful old buildings in traditional style.
How to get there:
The bus from JR Wakayama station is about 15-20 minutes.
By car, 10 minutes from the center.
5. Kuroshio Market – Marina City
One of the most cheerful attractions is the market, where fresh seafood is prepared, including show-cutting tuna.
What to see:
a huge selection of fish and oyster grill,
cooking shows,
The Marina City walking area is nearby.
How to get there:
The bus from JR Wakayama Station is about 30 minutes.
By car, 15-20 minutes.
6. Wakayama Marina City - an artificial island with entertainment
Large recreation area: aquarium, thematic "European" village, walking areas by the sea.
Main sites:
Porto Europa is a Mediterranean-style park.
A large aquarium,
Nearby is Curucio Market.
How to get there:
Bus from the center (20-30 min).
20 minutes by car.
7. Hinokum and Kuni Kaga Temple (Hinokuma Jingu – Kunikagami Shrine)
One of the most important temple complexes in the prefecture. The primary place of worship of local residents.
How to get there:
Right outside Nichizengu Station.
10 minutes by train from Wakayamashi.
8. Kanzan Mountain and Momijidani Park
A place for walks in the forest, bright autumn foliage and calm trails.
How to get there:
From the central city - a bus (15 minutes), then on foot.
9. Beaches and coastal areas
Although the famous beaches of Sirahama are further away, Wakayama itself also offers a few cozy spots:
Examples:
Wakanoura Beach – next to the park and temples
Saikazaki Lighthouse Area – beautiful rocks and sea.
Access:
Buses from central stations (15-40 min depending on the location)
City transport map (briefly)
Railways:
JR Wakayama Station is the main transportation hub, convenient for trips to Osaka and Nara.
Wakayamashi Station is closer to the castle and the bay.
Bus:
The main transport for trips to temples, coastal areas and the market. They walk frequently and cover almost all important places.
Taxi:
Inexpensive compared to Tokyo and Kyoto, convenient for short distances (10-15 minutes to most attractions).
Bicycle:
Places along the sea and around the castle are especially pleasant for cycling.
Spring (March-May)
The most beautiful time: warm weather, cherry blossoms and many traditional events.
Cherry blossoms (late March – early April)
Wakayama Castle is one of the best places for hanami in the region.
The temple of Kimiya-dera is one of the first in Japan (sometimes in early March).
Hina Matsuri Puppet Festival (March 3)
In the temples and museums of the city, thematic exhibitions are held, traditional collections of dolls are shown.
Spring Temple Festivals
In many shrines parades in traditional clothes, performances of taiko drummers, fairs and street food.
Summer (June - August)
A period of bright festivals, sea and fireworks.
Wakayama Fireworks Festival (late July – early August)
the largest summer holiday in the city,
passes by the bay or along the river,
Thousands of people, night markets, music.
Tanabata - Festival of Stars (July 7)
The streets are decorated with paper decorations, shops and shopping centers hold evening events.
Maritime festivals in Saigyo and Wakaura areas
boat parades,
seafood fairs,
Open-air concerts.
Beach season
The best time to visit the coastal areas:
Wakanoura Beach,
fishing, boating,
Events in Marina City.
Autumn (September-November)
Comfortable weather, beautiful forests and many cultural events.
Admiration of autumn leaves (October - November)
Especially beautiful.
Momijidani Park,
Kazan district,
temples on the outskirts of the city.
Autumn Temple Festival (Aki Matsuri)
Traditional processions, kagur performances, evening markets.
Wakayama Marathon (late November)
A major sporting event that gathers participants from all over Japan. Along the route there are musical scenes and street performances.
Winter (December to February)
Calm season, low tourist flow and several atmospheric events.
Winter illumination in Marina City
Bright lighting, Christmas markets, street music.
New Year holidays (1-3 January)
In the temples, the traditional first prayers of the year (Hatsumode) are held. Especially popular:
Kimiya-der temple,
Hinokuma Temple.
New Year concerts and winter events
Local cultural centers and park areas arrange:
classical concerts,
performances by Japanese drummers,
winter fairs.
Spring (March-May)
The best season to visit: comfortable temperature, cherry blossoms, many sunny days.
Air temperature:
March: +10... +14°C
April: +15... +20°C
May: +20... +24°C
Water temperature:
March: +13 oh C.
April: +15° C.
May: +19° C.
The weather:
warm, fresh, especially pleasant for walks and excursions,
Minimum rainfall compared to summer.
Summer (June - August)
Sea and festival season. But also the rainy season and high humidity.
Air temperature:
June: +24... +28°C
July: +28... +32°C
August: +30... +34°C
Water temperature:
June: +22°C
July: +25° C.
August: +27... +28°C (warmest)
The weather:
damp, often stuffy,
June is the rainy season.
July-August is hot, but ideal for beaches and swimming.
Autumn (September-November)
Second best season. Especially good mid-October - late November.
Air temperature:
September: +26... +30°C
October: +20... +24°C
November: +14... +18°C
Water temperature:
September: +26°C
October: +23° C.
November: +20° C.
The weather:
Dry, warm, comfortable,
minimum humidity,
incredibly beautiful autumn leaves.
Winter (December to February)
Soft and calm. Snow hardly falls.
Air temperature:
December: +10... +13°C
January: +7... +10°C
February: +8... +11°C
Water temperature:
December: +17° C.
January: +15° C.
February: +14° C.
The weather:
cool, but rarely cold,
many clear days,
Quiet season, good hotel prices.
Language of communication
The main language is Japanese.
In Wakayama, as in most quiet cities in Japan, the level of English proficiency is lower than in Tokyo or Osaka. However:
Hotel staff usually speak basic English.
At train stations and bus stations there are inscriptions in English.
In tourist places (castle, temples, museums) English-language avenues are available.
Many young Japanese understand English a little, but are embarrassed to use it.
Useful advice:
Speak slowly and in simple phrases.
Use a translator (Google Translate is used by the Japanese).
Sometimes it is easier to show the text on the screen than to say it.
Traditions and rules of conduct
Japan is a very respectful and polite country. In Wakayama, as in a more traditional region, this is felt particularly strongly.
1. Greetings
A bow is a normal form of greeting.
Handshakes are possible but optional.
2. Shoes.
Be sure to take off your shoes:
In private homes,
in ryokan (traditional hotels),
Some temples and historic buildings.
If you see slippers at the entrance, it is a sign that the shoes are removed.
3. Silence in public places
The trains don't talk on the phone.
conversations are quiet, calm,
The volume of music and video is kept to a minimum.
4. Garbage
There are few urns in Japan. Copy that:
carry the trash with you until you find a place to sort,
sort waste (plastic, incinerated, aluminum, etc.).
5. Food rules
Eating outside (except for festivals and special areas)
sticks do not stick vertically into rice (this is a funeral symbol),
They don't give food to each other.
6. In temples and sanctuaries
Before entering, the hands and mouth are washed on a special source,
They don't eat or make noise on the ground.
You can not take pictures everywhere (look for signs).
7. Politeness
Thank you – the norm (often and a lot),
Don't argue loudly,
Respect personal space and queue.
Laws and regulations that are important to follow
These norms are common throughout Japan, but in quiet Wakayama, they are particularly sensitive.
1. Smoking
allowed only in designated areas (smoking areas),
Smoking is illegal in many areas and fines are high.
2. Alcohol
The legal age is 20.
You can't drink in cars.
Driving with any amount of alcohol (zero threshold) is prohibited.
3. Roads and crossings
You can only cross the road by zebra.
In provincial cities, fines for crossing “in the wrong place” are stricter than in megacities.
4. Documents
Passports must be carried - this is a legal requirement for all foreigners.
5. Cleanliness
Garbage is never thrown anywhere - fines and disapproval are very high.
6. Medications.
Some common Western drugs may be prohibited from being imported (for example, strong nasal sprays). Before traveling, it is better to check the list of allowed.
7. Hotels.
Hotels are required to copy a foreigner's passport - this is normal practice.
Basic words and expressions
Hello / Good afternoon - ыйのый (konnichiwa)
Good morning - 大)国) (ohayō gozaimasu)
Good evening - )の)の) (konbanwa)
Good-bye - )人の) (sayōnara)
Nice to meet you - Hajimemashite
Thank you - ))ة) (arigatō gozaimasu)
Please (in response to thank you) - )人)42) (dō itashimashite)
Sorry / sorry / please tell me - )の (sumimasen)
Please (when asked) - מ)の) (onegaishimasu)
Yes - ) (hai)
No - ) (iie)
Useful tourist phrases
Where is it? )? (kore wa doko desu ka?)
Where's the toilet?
How much does it cost? - )大)? (ikura desu ka?)
I want to go to ... - Ø ) (Ø Ø e ikitai desu)
Give me this please - )大) (kore o kudasai)
Can I take a picture? (shashin o totte mo ii desu ka?)
Where is the station located?
Where's the bus stop? (basutei wa doko desu ka?)
Right / Left - ) / ) (migi / hidari)
Phrases for cafes and restaurants
Menu please - )の)の) (menyū o onegaishimasu)
What do you recommend? - Osusume wa nan desu ka?
Water, please - )の) (mizu o kudasai)
Is that sharp? )? (kore, karai desu ka?)
Separate invoice, please - )の)42) (betsubetsu ni onegaishimasu)
Invoice, please - מ Сמ Сの С (okaikei onegaishimasu)
Hotel phrases
I want to settle in - )の)の) (chekku-in o onegaishimasu)
I have a reservation - нь大нь (yoyaku shiteimasu)
My passport is ) (pasupōto wa kochira desu).
Is there Wi-Fi? - Wi-Fi?? (waifai wa arimasu ka?)
What time is breakfast? (chōshoku wa nanji desu ka?)
Shop phrases
Can I try it on? (shichaku dekimasu ka?)
Is there another size? - の ة ? (hoka no saizu wa arimasu ka?)
I'm looking for this -- )42) (kore o sagashiteimasu).
Do you need a package? (fukuro wa irimasu ka?)
Yes, please - )/55/) (hai, onegaishimasu)
No, thank you / all good - 大) (daijōbu desu)
Phrases for transport
This train goes to...? - の Ø ? (kono densha wa Ø Ø Ø e ikimasu ka?)
Where should I go? - Doko de norikaemasu ka?
One ticket, please - )大) (ichi-mai kudasai)
Which station is next? - у? (tsugi wa nani-eki desu ka?)
Emergency phrases
Help me! – Tasukete kudasai!
Where is the hospital? (byōin wa doko desu ka?)
Call the police - )の)大) (keisatsu o yonde kudasai)
1. Food and drink
Citrus
Mikuan tangerines are sweet Japanese mandarins, the famous product of Wakayama.
Often sold in the season from November to January.
You can bring fresh, dried or in the form of sweets (marmalade, jam).
Seafood
Tuna and Mackerel - Wakayama is known for the Kuroshio Market, which sells fresh seafood.
You can buy dried or smoked products for a gift.
Tea and sweets
Uji tea and local green teas are popular in souvenir shops.
Wakayama sweets (Wagashi) are traditional Japanese sweets and azuki bean pastes, beautifully packaged, perfect for a gift.
Local drinks
Sake Wakayama - soft and fragrant varieties.
You can buy a bottle in a gift package.
2. Medicines and cosmetics
Natural products
Mandarin oil (Mikan Oil) - used for skin, aromatherapy, relaxation.
Honey and bee products - with the addition of citrus, to strengthen immunity.
Cosmetics
Creams and masks based on citrus – care for the skin and give a fresh aroma.
Local herbal collections and aromatic sticks (incense) - for relaxation and meditation.
3. Souvenirs and handicrafts
Traditional products
Wakayama dolls and figurines are Japanese miniature crafts.
Traditional ceramics - cups, kettles, dishes with a characteristic pattern of the region.
Textiles and plywood - handkerchiefs, napkins, Japanese fans.
Arts and crafts
Noh and Kabuki masks are miniature souvenirs for the collection.
Labels and calligraphy are ready-made souvenir sets or drawing materials.
1. Safety of rest
Wakayama is a safe city by Japanese standards.
Low crime rates – street theft and violence are rare.
Clean streets and public places – rules of conduct are strictly observed.
Transportation is safe, but follow the usual steps: watch your personal belongings, especially at train stations.
Natural hazards - typhoons in summer (July-September) and earthquakes are possible, but the city is prepared for emergencies.
Tip: Watch for weather forecasts, typhoon warnings and follow local authorities' instructions.
2. Documents required
Passport - the main document, mandatory at the entrance.
Visa – depends on citizenship:
For citizens of many countries (including Russia), the period of visa-free stay in Japan is up to 90 days.
You must have a return ticket or a ticket to a third country.
Accommodation reservation – if necessary, you may be asked to confirm the address of residence.
Medical documents (optional) - copies of prescriptions if you are taking medications.
3. Health insurance
It is necessary to have tourist medical insurance.
Insurance must cover:
emergency care and hospitalization;
repatriation if necessary;
Emergency dentistry (if you plan to).
Insurance is convenient to arrange in advance online through international insurance companies.
4. Emergency services phones
Police - 110
Fire and Ambulance Service - 119
Tourist information and assistance - you can contact local tourist centers, for example, in Wakayama: +81 73 (check the specific center)
Applications and SOS Notifications – the government’s “Safety tips” application for emergency alerts about natural disasters and emergencies
Tip: Always keep these numbers on your phone and write them down on paper in case the battery runs out or there is no internet connection.
5. Mobile communications
SIM cards for tourists and Wi-Fi roaming are popular in Japan.
Main operators: NTT Docomo, SoftBank, au.
You can buy a tourist SIM for 7-30 days at the airport or via the Internet.
Portable Wi-Fi routers are also available, which are convenient to rent at the airport.
Tip: Before traveling, check whether your phone supports the frequencies of Japanese networks (GSM, LTE).
6. Term of stay for tourists
Visa-free: usually up to 90 days (3 months).
To extend, you need to formally apply for a visa or leave the country and return.
Important: you can not work in Japan without a special visa.
Create a query and local guides will offer you the best options
