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Discover different worlds, just an hour apart

Discover different worlds in Japan, just an hour or so apart when travelling by air. Tokyo is a favourite destination for many. With districts like Asakusa, Shibuya or Akihabara, there's something to entice any kind of visitor as they shuffle through the arrivals lounge at Haneda or Narita Airport. But cast your glance west towards the Kansai region, host of Expo 2025 in Osaka, and you'll find the perfect partner. Wakayama offers a spiritual heartland ripe with tradition and adventure. From the mountaintop temple enclave of Koyasan to the focus of Kumano Kodo’s main trails, Wakayama offers a rich experience to complement your Japan trip.

Watch this scintillating preview of what to expect

Wakayama

Wakayama

Located to the south of Japan’s central Kansai region, the mountainous prefecture of Wakayama hugs the southwestern coastline that stretches along the Kii Peninsula.

As one of Japan’s most sacred destinations, Wakayama is well known for both spiritualism and adventure. To the north, discover the sacred mountaintop temple enclave of Koyasan, before venturing south to the revered Kumano Sanzan (three Shinto grand shrines) and Japan’s tallest waterfall at Nachi Falls. All these sacred sites are connected by the ancient pilgrimage trails of Kumano Kodo and share the region’s 2004 UNESCO World Heritage accreditation.

Wakayama offers superb contrast to Tokyo when visiting Japan. Read on to explore some recommended attractions.


Koyasan

The mountaintop temple complex of Koyasan is one of Japan’s most spiritual and unique destinations. Founded by Buddhist priest Kobo Daishi (Kukai), this UNESCO World Heritage Site is the birthplace and home of Shingon Buddhism. During the height of the Edo period (1603—1868), Koyasan was home to over 2,000 temples, but many since succumbed to fire or similar fates. Of the remaining 117 temples, 50 shukubo (temple lodgings) invite visitors—of any faith—to stay overnight and learn more about the Buddhism lifestyle.

Rengejo-in

Rengejo-in
Rengejo-in
Rengejo-in
Rengejo-in

Founded during the Kenkyu Era (1190-1199), Rengejo-in has historical links with Japan’s Sanada clan and shares their family crest for its official insignia.

Inside the temple’s gates, find the mesmerising Hrih Garden, a karesansui-style, dry rock garden flanked by lotus water lilies. The central sanskrit character of ‘Hrih’ symbolises the lotus flower and points towards the Main Hall, which enshrines Amida Nyorai.

The Main Hall hosts Buddhist ceremonies twice daily, with the soft chime of the temple’s bell reverberating across the grounds to summon guests. The evening session explores ajikan and asokukan meditation, while the morning session focuses on prayer and sutra readings. Experience moments of serenity and self-reflection.

Rengejo-in
Rengejo-in
Rengejo-in
Rengejo-in

For dinner then breakfast, sample traditional Buddhist cuisine, known as ‘Shojin Ryori’. This vegetable-based meal features seasonal vegetables and mountain plants. Try local flavours including Goma-Dofu (sesame tofu).

Rooms vary from standard tatami/futon rooms to larger suites with private bathing facilities, Western-style bedding and garden views. The temple was also named in 2023 as one of the top 5 accommodations in Japan for affluent foreign visitors.

Rengejo-in

It’s worth mentioning a few other shukubo. Founded in 906, Fudo-in is one of Koyasan’s oldest and most popular temples, which combines classic traditional interiors and Kissentei garden views. Nearby, Eko-in is another highly respected and popular shukubo that also offers the chance to witness Goma fire rituals.

Okuno-in Area

Okunoin Cemetery

Okuno-in is one of the most sacred sites at Koyasan, being the location of Koyasan-founder Kobo Daishi’s mausoleum—though given his reverence, some believe he lives on in an eternal, transcendental meditative state. Much of the cemetery is enclosed by a forest packed with ancient cedar trees and features moss-covered memorials.

Okunoin Cemetery
Okunoin Cemetery
Okunoin Cemetery
Okunoin Cemetery

Visiting a cemetery at night may feel like a spooky endeavour, but it is actually a recommended way to experience Okuno-in. Guided night tours depart from Eko-in. Follow the course along lantern-lit paths while listening to a local guide and admiring the Gorinto (five-tiered stupa) and other stone memorials along the way. The tour adjourns after the mausoleum, allowing visitors to return at their own pace under the moonlight glow of the cemetery’s stone lanterns.

Danjo Garan

Danjo Garan
Danjo Garan
Danjo Garan
Danjo Garan
Danjo Garan

The Danjo Garan complex is considered the centre of Koyasan and was founded by Kobo Daishi, as one of the first complexes here, for the purposes of training in esoteric Shingon Buddhism. It’s home to around 20 temples and structures, including the iconic Konpon Daito, a 49m-tall vermilion red pagoda that sits on the east side of the Kondo (main hall). The current buildings were rebuilt in 1934 (following past fires) and are now home to a variety of Buddhist statues and murals.


Kumano

Enveloped by nature, southern Wakayama’s cultural landscape is defined by its Kumano Sanzan trio of temples at Kumano Hongu Taisha, Kumano Hayatama Taisha, and Kumano Nachi Taisha. Alongside major temples like Nachisan Seiganto-ji and Fudarakusan-ji, visitors can observe elements of Shinto-Buddhism fusion unique to this area. These sacred sites are also connected to the north’s Koyasan by the ancient pilgrimage trails of Kumano Kodo.

Oyunohara & Kumano Hongu Taisha

Oyunohara & Kumano Hongu Taisha

This beautiful torii gate—the largest in the world at ~34m in height—is an incredible sight to behold against the surrounding rice paddies and mountains. As the original location for the Kumano Hongu Taisha Grand Shrine, all of the Kumano Kodo trails connect at this spot, giving it historical significance. However, severe flooding in 1889 saw the shrine’s location moved further inland, leaving the gate behind in this original spot. Kumano Hongu Taisha, a short walk away, serves as the head shrine for over 3,000 Kumano shrines across Japan.

Kumano-Hayatama Taisha Grand Shrine & Mt. Kamikura

Kumano-Hayatama Taisha Grand Shrine & Mt. Kamikura

Kumano-Hayatama Taisha is considered one of Japan’s most sacred shrines, attracting a large number of visitors each year. Nearby Mt. Kamikura is closely connected to this shrine and also worth a visit—if you don’t mind hiking 500 stone steps!

Kamikura-jinja

At the summit, Kamikura-jinja marks the location of the giant ‘Gotobiki’ rock where legend suggests the three deities of Kumano first descended (now enshrined at Kumano Hayatama Taisha). Expect panoramic views over the Shingu coastline — a worthy reward for the hike!

Walk the Kumano Kodo

Kumano Kodo

Experience the Kumano Kodo along the 1km long Daimon-zaka path, near Nachi Falls. The route provides secluded, cobblestone paths surrounded by ancient trees. Why not mimic a local historical tradition and rent your own authentic Heian-era (794–1185) costume? The Daimon-zaka Chaya teahouse near the bottom provides multiple plans and accepts walk-ins.

Walk the Kumano Kodo
Walk the Kumano Kodo
Walk the Kumano Kodo
Walk the Kumano Kodo

Nachi Falls & Shrine

At 133 meters in height, Nachi Falls—Japan's tallest and most famous waterfall —is a spectacular sight. It's the centrepiece of a sacred primeval forest that has long been revered and worshipped by Shinto followers.

Nachi Falls & Shrine

Hiro Shrine, hidden beneath the forest canopy, is perched right beside the waterfall where, for 300 yen, you can gain access to an observation deck. Feel the cascading waterfall’s negative ions and taste sacred water—said to grant longevity—for an additional fee.

Nachi Falls & Shrine

For a wider angle, seek higher ground where Kumano Nachi Grand Shrine and Nachisan Seiganto-ji Temple are located. Here you’ll get a stunning view of the temple's three-storied pagoda against the waterfall backdrop. It's a picture postcard view that would compete for one of Japan's best.

Here you can also witness the Kumano region’s influence on religion and Shinto-Buddhism fusion. Nachi Taisha and Seiganto-ji are located directly next to each other in close harmony — quite unique even for Japan. Given Shinto’s origins in nature worship and the influence of this practice on Shugendo Buddhism, it’s another reason to find peace and meaning in your visit here.

Nachi Falls & Shrine

Tokyo

Tokyo is a favourite destination for many and the first stop for those arriving in Japan’s east, as they shuffle through the arrivals lounge at Haneda Airport. Japan’s capital offers a kaleidoscope of people, sights, sounds and colours, visible through its blend of downtown charm, traditional culture and ultra-modern technologies. Its city districts are defined by their own unique identities, from Shibuya’s playful youth and colourful facades to Ginza’s glitz and luxury or Akihabara’s anime-inspired streets. Tokyo truly is a modern, international city that has something for everyone.


Shibuya

Shibuya is one of Tokyo’s most energetic districts—known for its youth culture, cutting-edge fashion, shopping, pop culture and vibrant nightlife.

Shibuya Scramble Crossing

Shibuya crossing

Shibuya Scramble Crossing, launched in 1973, is symbolic of both the Shibuya area and the city as a whole, representing the heart of Tokyo’s urban buzz in this almost restless metropolis.

Hachiko Statue

Hachiko Statue

Amidst the change that Shibuya has seen in recent years (with the station’s redevelopment), it is comforting to know some icons, like the Hachiko Dog statue, are staying put. This popular meeting spot, besides Shibuya Crossing, memorialises the 1920s tale of Hachiko, an Akita dog who would wait at Shibuya Station each day for his owner to return from work. On one fateful day, however, he would not—having suffered a cerebral haemorrhage—but Hachiko nonetheless kept returning each day for almost a decade. This heart-warming story became etched into the psyche of Japanese people, thanks to its message of loyalty and perseverance.

Shibuya Sky

Shibuya Sky

Opened in 2019, Shibuya Sky’s rooftop observatory sits proudly atop the colossal 229-meter-high Shibuya Scramble Square skyscraper by the station.

The 360° open-air observation deck offers jaw-dropping, panoramic views of Tokyo from all angles. The Sky Edge corner provides an ‘Instagrammable’ view over the city below, complete with Shibuya’s own Scramble Crossing.

Shibuya Scramble Crossing

Once you’re experienced the rooftop—great during the day or at night—head down to the Sky Gallery to glimpse additional views of Tokyo from indoors, as well as a relax at the cafe and souvenir shop.

Entry to the rooftop observation deck is timed so advance booking is recommended, with online booking attracting a cheaper rate than at the ticket counter.


Tokyo Tower

Tokyo Tower

Before Tokyo Skytree officially opened in 2012, Tokyo Tower had always been the leading icon on Tokyo’s skyline since 1958. To this day, it still retains much of its charm and—at 333m in height—is a smidgen taller than the Eiffel Tower, the tower on which it was modelled.

The Main Deck (150m) spans two floors, providing panoramic views over central Tokyo. Don’t miss the Skywalk Windows on the lower floor, with reinforced glass panels providing vertical top-down views beneath the tower — would you dare to walk across?

Tokyo Tower

The Top Deck (250m) requires a special timed ticket and grants access to the highest level, with glittering, geometric mirrors that reflect the surrounding skyline. On a clear day, you’ll even be able to spot Mount Fuji.

Tokyo Tower View

Tokyo Tower is also known for its spectacular light up, which can be enjoyed from many vantage points across Tokyo, like nearby Shiba Park.

Yakatabune

Board one of Tokyo's traditional floating houseboats, called “Yakatabune”, to gain access to exclusive views of the city from the water.

Yakatabune
Yakatabune
Yakatabune

Yakatabune are lavishly-decorated private houseboats that were traditionally used by the wealthy, like feudal lords and samurai warriors. Nowadays, yakatabune can be enjoyed by anyone. Expect luxury tatami interiors, Japanese cuisine like sushi and tempura, free-flowing drinks and evening bay views.

Yakatabune
Yakatabune

Funasei, one of the top-rated experiences on Tripadvisor, invites you to slip back in time on their yakatabune. Follow a route that weaves through Shinagawa’s waterways before reaching Odaiba, where boats anchor for dinner. As the evening progresses, continue along the Sumida River for stunning views of Tokyo Skytree and, later, Rainbow Bridge. Routes typically last around 2.5 hours and start at 12,000 yen (as of June 2023) including dinner/drinks.

Yakatabune

Yukata in Asakusa

Asakusa is one of Tokyo's most iconic, traditional districts and often comes to mind instantly when people imagine “Tokyo”. The Kaminarimon gate, Nakamise-dori Street and Sensoji temple all offer iconic, unforgettable views that draws millions of tourists each year. Why not complete the period look by wearing Japan’s traditional dress?

Yukata in Asakusa

The kimono—or lighter yukata for summer—is still worn today in Japan and can be glimpsed around Japan’s cities and also on special occasions. Wearing a kimono (or yukata) is a perfect way to spend a few hours in Asakusa.

Yukata in Asakusa

Walk to Sensoji temple and peruse the small shops and eateries along Nakamise-dori Street, before taking snaps at the pagoda. Double back along the Sumida River, for iconic views of Tokyo Skytree and Asahi Beer Tower on the horizon.

Yukata in Asakusa

Many rental shops exist in Asakusa, like Kyoto Aiwafuku—ranked #1 on Tripadvisor. They offer a variety of outfits with support in English and Chinese. A fun memorial photo is included in all plans. Rentals before 12pm should be returned by 4:30pm, with afternoon rentals returned by 5:30pm.

Stay

Stay in Wakayama

Wakayama offers a variety of authentic stays, from traditional ryokans with soothing hot springs, to authentic temple stays surrounded by nature and serving Shojin Ryori cuisine. Find something for you.

Recommended hotels in Wakayama

Stay in Tokyo

Tokyo offers a variety of authentic stays, from luxurious hotels offering supreme comfort, to quirky capsule hotels a stone’s throw from the main nightlife districts. Find something for you.

Recommended hotels in Tokyo

Access

Access

By Plane

Haneda to KIX

  • Flight time: 1hr 5min—1hr 20min
  • Served by: JAL, ANA, Starflyer
  • To Koyasan: 1hr 30min by rental car*

Haneda to Nanki-Shirahama

  • Flight time: 1hr 10min
  • Served by: JAL
  • To Nachi Falls: ~2hr by rental car*
*International drivers license needed.
Map
By train
  • Tokyo to Shin-Osaka Station: ~2hr 30min (Tokaido Shinkansen / Nozomi)
  • Shin-Osaka Station to Namba Station: ~15min (Midosuji Line)
  • Namba Station to Hashimoto Station: ~50 min (Nankai Koya Line)
  • Hashimoto Station to Gokurakubashi Station: ~43min (Nankai Koya Line)
  • Gokurakubashi Station to Koyasan Station: ~5min (Nankai Koyasan Cable)
  • Local Bus: ~10-15min (varies depending on destination)

For Nachi Falls:

  • Tokyo to Shin-Osaka Station: ~2hr 30min (Tokaido Shinkansen / Nozomi)
  • Shin-Osaka Station to Kii-Katsuura Station: ~4hr (JR Kuroshio Limited Express)
  • Kii-Katsuura Station to Nachi-no-Taki-mae: ~24min (31 Nachisan Line bus)

Lost in Japan Kumano×Tokyo

Imagine a destination rich with spirituality and adventure. From Tokyo's beating metropolitan heart to the historical and spiritual trails of Kumano Kodo pilgrimage route, prepare to take a journey through a land where the past and future collide:

Featured spots in Wakayama’s Kumano region

Featured spots in Tokyo


Experience the magic of Tokyo x Wakayama

Tokyo and Wakayama represent two extraordinary facets of Japan, each with its own unique charm. Tokyo, a bustling metropolis, offers modernity and innovation, while Wakayama, steeped in tradition, beckons with its serene spirituality and natural beauty. Together, they create a perfect blend of experiences for travelers, making Japan's diversity and allure truly captivating. Whether you seek the energy of the city or the tranquility of nature, Tokyo and Wakayama have something remarkable to offer every traveler.

For more information, check out Tokyo’s official website, and Wakayama’s official website. And if you need some travel inspiration, head to Tripadvisor’s Explore Tokyo and Explore Wakayama pages.

Japan Travel
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