Hot springs by the Pacific Ocean in Shirahama, Japan! Want to stay indefinitely!

🌊 3 days 2 nights healing trip in Shirahama Town｜Kansai’s stunning hidden coastline

A Japanese-style hot spring inn with the sound of waves to lull you to sleep, geological wonders, and a healing seafood market—keep this Kansai hidden gem guide handy~

【DAY1】Kansai Airport → Shirarahama Beach → Sunset at Engetsu Island
📍 JR Kansai Airport direct to Shirahama Station (about 2.5 hours)
📍 10-minute walk to Shirarahama Beach, with sugar-like fine white sand and jelly-clear sea, barefoot wading is super soothing!
📍 Evening hike to Engetsu Island (next to Toretore Market), the natural arch in the middle of the sea with a stunning sunset
🏨 Recommended stay: Hamachidori no Yu Kaishu (a spectacular hot spring at the tip of the main cape! We booked the Nami no Sho room type, floor-to-ceiling windows facing the Pacific Ocean, soaking in a private bath while listening to the waves is incredibly healing)

【DAY2】Senjojiki → Sandanbeki → Seafood Market Feast
📍 Senjojiki: a unique rock formation resembling a thousand-layer cake, photos at sunrise come with a golden filter (free attraction)
📍 Sandanbeki: take the elevator down to the sea cave (admission 1300 yen), waves crashing against the 30-meter cliff are breathtaking
📍 Toretore Market: arrive before 11:30! Freshly sliced fugu sashimi, face-sized Matsuba crab legs (recommend the standing-eating area inside the market for a more local experience)

【DAY3】Kumano Kodo · Adventure Challenge
📍 Take the bus to Kumano Hongu Taisha (about 1.5 hours)
📍 Hike the pilgrimage trail (simple 5 km version), passing through primeval forest to reach Hosshinmon Oji
🍱 Must eat: On the way back, don’t miss the wakame bowl at Toretore Market—sea urchin + salmon roe + wasabi mixed rice is a perfect match!

♨️ Hot Spring TIPS:
1. The private open-air bath at Kaishu Ryokan is first-come, first-served; recommend going at 7 AM to reserve a spot
2. The public mixed-gender bath provides a modesty cloth for women; shy guests can choose the women-only Iwato no Yu

🚇 Transportation Guide:
- Kansai Wide Area JR PASS is a great deal (5-day pass for 1200 RMB)
- Free shuttle buses from Shirahama Station to major hotels