Discovery of Japan's Wakayama Prefecture : Shingu and Nachi

📍 Itinerary Overview
Discover Japan’s spiritual heart on a two-day adventure through Shingu, Nachi town, and the sacred slopes of Nachisan. This trip blends ancient shrines, majestic waterfalls, and cozy local stays for the ultimate Kumano Kodo experience.

🚩 Sightseeing Route

🇯🇵 Day 1: Shingu City to Nachi Town
Sightseeing Route
- Start at Kumano Hayatama Taisha, a UNESCO shrine famous for its spiritual atmosphere and centuries-old nagi tree.
- Walk through Shingu Castle Park for panoramic river and city views.
- Travel by local bus to Nachi town, checking out quaint streets and local shops en route.

🇯🇵 Day 2: Nachisan Pilgrimage
- Begin with an early breakfast, then take the bus (or hike a segment of Kumano Kodo) uphill to Nachi Shrine.
- Explore Seiganto-ji Temple beside the iconic Three-story Pagoda.
- Marvel at Nachi Falls, Japan’s tallest uninterrupted waterfall—don’t miss it from both above and below!


🏖️ Must-Visit Attractions
Kumano Hayatama Taisha
Shingu Castle Park
Nachi Taisha Grand Shrine
Seiganto-ji Temple
Nachi Falls

🚇 Transportation
Use the JR Kisei Main Line between Shingu and Nachi, plus local buses to reach Nachisan. IC cards aren’t always accepted, so keep some cash handy.

📷 Photo Spots
- Nachi Falls with Seiganto-ji pagoda in the foreground
- Kumano Hayatama Taisha shrine gate
- Nachisan hiking trails, especially early or late for magical light

🍜 Local Cuisine
Try Kumano beef croquettes and mehari-zushi (rice wrapped in pickled leaves) from local shops in Nachi town.


🏠 Accommodation
1.Hotel Newpalace :
Comfortable stay in Shingu; walkable to local shrines and restaurants. Friendly staff, clean Japanese/Western rooms, onsen bath available.

💡 Tips
- Start early for Nachisan to avoid crowds at the falls.
- If you have time, walk a short stretch of the Kumano Kodo pilgrimage route for an immersive experience.
- Prepare for variable weather, carry a light raincoat.

#deliciousfood #localguides #historicallandmarks

Post by Maxime Pitaval | Aug 19, 2025

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