5 Top recommended hotels in Wakayama:
Wakayama Marina City Hotel: Situated in a scenic waterfront location, this hotel offers breathtaking views of the marina and features spacious rooms with modern amenities.
Dormy Inn Premium Wakayama: Conveniently located near Wakayama Castle, this hotel boasts natural hot spring baths and a rooftop terrace offering panoramic city views.
Hotel Granvia Wakayama: Located next to Wakayama Station, this upscale hotel offers stylish rooms, an array of dining options, and easy access to shopping and sightseeing.
Hotel Nikko Kansai Airport: Perfect for travelers with early or late flights, this hotel is directly connected to Kansai International Airport and provides comfortable accommodation and dining facilities.
Wakayama Urban Hotel: Situated in the heart of downtown Wakayama, this budget-friendly hotel offers comfortable rooms and easy access to the city's attractions, including Wakayama Castle and the famous fish market.
Why should you stay in Wakayama?
Natural Beauty: Wakayama is blessed with stunning natural landscapes, including picturesque mountains, lush forests, and beautiful coastlines. Nature lovers can explore the UNESCO World Heritage site, Kumano Kodo pilgrimage routes, which offer breathtaking hikes through sacred mountains and serene landscapes. Visitors can also relax on the pristine beaches of Shirahama or enjoy a boat ride to the enchanting Nachi Falls, one of Japan's tallest waterfalls. The region's natural beauty is a magnet for outdoor enthusiasts and those seeking tranquility.
Spiritual Heritage: Home to many ancient temples and shrines, Wakayama is a spiritual haven for travelers seeking a deep connection to Japan's rich cultural history. Wakayama's most famous attraction is Mount Koya, a sacred mountain renowned for its cluster of over 100 temples, including the renowned Okunoin, where the mausoleum of the founder of Buddhism in Japan, Kukai, can be found. Visitors can experience Zen meditation, stay overnight in temple lodgings, and witness mesmerizing rituals such as morning prayers and fire ceremonies.
Culinary Delights: Wakayama is a food lover's paradise, offering a variety of unique and delicious local dishes. The region is famous for its ramen, particularly the distinctive Wakayama-style ramen with its rich, soy-based broth and thick noodles. Seafood enthusiasts can indulge in washoku (traditional Japanese cuisine) featuring fresh catches from the Pacific Ocean, such as Kue (Japanese blue crab) and Katsuo (bonito). Wakayama is also renowned for its plum orchards, producing high-quality plums used in various culinary creations, including plum wine and umeboshi (pickled plums).
