Best hotels and places to stay in Wakayama
Why visit?
Wakayama, located in the Kansai region of Japan, offers a unique blend of nature, history, and spirituality, making it an interesting destination for tourists. With its stunning natural landscapes, including the famous Kumano Kodo pilgrimage routes and Mount Koya, as well as its historical attractions like Wakayama Castle and the Wakayama Marina City, visitors will find plenty of reasons to explore this beautiful region. Additionally, Wakayama is known for its delicious traditional cuisine, such as Kishu plum and fresh seafood, making it a delight for food lovers.
Where to stay?
Wakayama City: The capital of Wakayama Prefecture, Wakayama City, is a convenient base for tourists. It offers a range of accommodations, from luxury hotels to budget-friendly options. Visitors staying here can easily explore the citys attractions like Wakayama Castle, Kimiidera Temple, and the Wakayama City Museum, as well as enjoy the local culinary delights.
Shirahama: Known for its pristine beaches and hot springs, Shirahama is a popular coastal resort town in Wakayama. This area offers a variety of accommodation options, including beachfront hotels and traditional ryokans (Japanese inns) with hot spring baths. Travelers staying here can relax on the white sandy beaches, visit the iconic Shirahama Beach Sandanbeki Cliffs, and enjoy the rejuvenating hot springs.
Koyasan: For a unique and spiritual experience, staying in Koyasan, a sacred mountain town, is highly recommended. This UNESCO World Heritage site is home to over 100 temples and offers temple lodgings known as shukubo. Visitors can immerse themselves in the tranquility of the area, participate in morning prayers, and savor vegetarian Buddhist meals. Its an excellent opportunity to experience traditional Japanese culture and explore places like Kongobuji Temple and Okunoin Cemetery.
What is the price per hotel room per night?
3-star hotels: The average price per night is around $70 to $120.
4-star hotels: The average price per night is around $120 to $200.
5-star hotels: The average price per night is around $200 to $300.
3-star hotels: The average price per night is around $70 to $120.
4-star hotels: The average price per night is around $120 to $200.
5-star hotels: The average price per night is around $200 to $300.
Best value for money:
Hotel Granvia Wakayama: Located in Wakayama City, this hotel offers comfortable rooms at affordable prices. With its convenient location near Wakayama Castle and Wakayama Station, guests have easy access to the citys attractions and transportation. The hotel provides modern amenities, attentive service, and a variety of dining options, ensuring a pleasant stay.
Shiraraso Grand Hotel: Situated in the Shirahama area, this hotel offers excellent value for a beachfront stay. Guests can enjoy stunning ocean views, spacious rooms, and access to private onsen (hot spring) facilities. The hotels friendly staff and delicious seafood meals make it a popular choice for visitors seeking a budget-friendly beachside retreat.
Yochi-in: Nestled in the tranquil surroundings of Koyasan, this temple lodging offers a unique and affordable experience. Guests can stay in traditional Japanese-style rooms, participate in morning meditation, and savor shojin ryori (Buddhist vegetarian cuisine). The peaceful atmosphere and beautiful gardens add to the charm of this value-for-money accommodation option.
Best kids-friendly hotels:
Hotel Urashima: Situated on a small island off the coast of Wakayama, this hotel provides a fantastic family-friendly experience. With its aquarium, outdoor hot spring baths overlooking the sea, and spacious rooms with ocean views, children and parents alike will enjoy their stay. The hotel also offers various activities, including boat tours and a marine park, ensuring plenty of fun for the little ones.
Nanki-Shirahama Marriott Hotel: Located near Shirahama Beach, this hotel boasts a range of amenities for families. It features a large outdoor pool, indoor play areas, and spacious guest rooms with stunning ocean views. The hotels convenient location allows easy access to the beach and nearby attractions, making it an ideal choice for a family vacation.
Best hotels for a romantic getaway:
Yunomine Onsen Hatago: Situated in the heart of the Kumano Kodo pilgrimage route, this ryokan offers a romantic retreat surrounded by nature. Guests can relax in traditional Japanese-style rooms, indulge in private hot spring baths, and savor exquisite kaiseki (multi-course) meals made with local ingredients. The serene ambiance and secluded setting make it perfect for couples seeking a romantic escape.
Kishu Shirahama Onsen Musashi: This luxury hotel in Shirahama offers a stunning oceanfront location and elegant accommodations. Couples can enjoy the hotels private outdoor hot spring baths, indulge in a couples massage, and dine on delectable Japanese and international cuisine. With its romantic atmosphere and breathtaking views, this hotel is an excellent choice for a romantic getaway.
Best for location:
Wakayama Tokyu Inn: Situated near Wakayama Station, this hotel offers easy access to transportation and the citys main attractions. Guests can explore nearby Wakayama Castle, visit Kimiidera Temple, and enjoy shopping and dining in the city center. The hotel provides comfortable rooms, friendly service, and convenient amenities for a hassle-free stay.
Shirahama Key Terrace Hotel Seamore: Located just a short walk from Shirahama Beach, this hotel offers a prime location for beach lovers. Guests can enjoy water sports, relax on the sandy shore, and explore nearby attractions like Sandanbeki Cliffs. The hotel features stylish rooms, a rooftop terrace, and a variety of dining options, providing a great base for enjoying the coastal beauty of Shirahama.
Koyasan Onsen Fukuchi-in: Situated in the heart of Koyasan, this temple lodging offers a convenient location for exploring the towns cultural and historical sites. Guests can easily visit famous temples such as Kongobuji and Okunoin, as well as participate in morning prayers and meditation. The traditional rooms, serene atmosphere, and proximity to significant landmarks make it an ideal choice for those seeking to immerse themselves in the spirituality of Koyasan.
Best for a short city break:
Daiwa Roynet Hotel Wakayama: Located in Wakayama City, this modern hotel provides comfortable accommodations for a quick city break. Guests can explore the citys attractions, enjoy shopping and dining in the nearby areas, and easily access public transportation. The hotel offers well-appointed rooms, a fitness center, and a breakfast buffet to start the day off right.
Shirahama Coganoi Resort & Spa: This resort hotel in Shirahama offers a peaceful retreat perfect for a short getaway. Guests can relax in the hotels well-designed rooms, enjoy rejuvenating spa treatments, and take advantage of the nearby attractions, including Sandanbeki Cliffs and Adventure World. The hotels tranquil setting and serene atmosphere make it an excellent choice for a brief escape from the city.
