Things To Do
in Nachikatsuura
Nachikatsuura is a picturesque coastal town located in the Wakayama Prefecture of Japan. Known for its stunning natural beauty, Nachikatsuura is home to rugged coastlines, crystal clear waters, and lush green mountains. The town is also famous for being a gateway to the sacred Kumano Nachi Taisha Shrine, one of the three Grand Shrines of Kumano.
Visitors to Nachikatsuura can enjoy fresh seafood, traditional Japanese ryokan accommodations, and opportunities for outdoor activities such as hiking and whale watching.
Outdoor Activities
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Explore the beautiful marine life and enjoy snorkeling or diving in the clear waters of Katsuura Underwater Park, which features vibrant coral reefs.
Visit this historic shrine located on the slopes of Nachi Mountain, which is surrounded by lush forest and offers stunning views of the Nachi Falls.
Hike to one of Japan's tallest waterfalls, Nachi Falls, where you can admire its breathtaking height and the natural beauty of the surrounding area.
Embark on a pilgrimage hike along the Kumano Kodo, a UNESCO World Heritage site, renowned for its ancient trails and beautiful landscapes.
Relax on the sandy shores or participate in various beach activities such as swimming, sunbathing, and beach volleyball at Nachikatsuura Beach.
Join fishing excursions or boat tours to experience the scenic coastline and rich marine life around Nachikatsuura.
- "Arigatou" - Thank you
- "Sumimasen" - Excuse me / I'm sorry
- "Konnichiwa" - Hello / Good afternoon
- "Eigo o hanasemasu ka?" - Do you speak English?
- "Oishii" - Delicious
Prices
- 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $50 - $150
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $10 - $40
- ☕ Coffee: $2 - $5
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $1 - $3
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $30 - $70
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $30 - $60
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a peaceful visit to the Nachi Taisha Shrine, known for its majestic architecture and rich history. Enjoy the serene surroundings and take your time exploring the shrine's beautiful gardens.
Head to the Nachi Falls, one of Japan's tallest waterfalls, and take in the breathtaking views from the observation point. Don't forget your camera to capture the stunning landscape.
Relax at a local onsen (hot spring), soaking in the natural minerals and unwinding after a long day of exploration. Enjoy a traditional Japanese dinner at a nearby restaurant, savoring regional specialties.
Start your day at the scenic Nachikatsuura Beach, perfect for swimming and relaxing under the sun. Grab a light breakfast at a beachside café while enjoying the ocean view.
Explore the coastal trails, taking in the fresh sea breeze and stunning views of the Pacific Ocean. Consider renting a kayak for an exhilarating adventure on the water.
Watch the sunset on the beach, as the sky transforms into a beautiful palette of colors. Enjoy a beachfront barbecue and relish fresh seafood caught that day.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Beautiful coastal scenery and beaches, ideal for relaxation and marine activities.
- Rich cultural heritage with local festivals and traditions.
- Delicious seafood cuisine, fresh from the ocean.
- Proximity to Kumano, which is famous for its UNESCO World Heritage shrines and pilgrimage routes.
- Warm climate, making it a pleasant destination year-round.
- Limited public transportation options, which may require a car for easy access to surrounding areas.
- Less entertainment and nightlife compared to larger cities in Japan.
- Seasonal typhoons can affect travel plans and outdoor activities.
- Smaller accommodation options compared to urban centers, potentially leading to availability issues during peak seasons.
- Limited English signage and communication in some areas may pose challenges for international visitors.
Places to Visit in Nachikatsuura
Visit one of these nice places.
The picturesque coastline offers stunning views of the Pacific Ocean and dramatic cliff formations, perfect for sunset photography.
A beautiful park along the sea where visitors can capture scenic photos of fishing boats and the surrounding nature.
This historic shrine is surrounded by lush greenery and features a magnificent waterfall, making it an ideal spot for spiritual and nature photography.
Japan's tallest waterfall, providing a breathtaking backdrop for photography amidst a serene forest setting.
A scenic temple that overlooks the coast, offering panoramic views of both the ocean and the lush hills.
A popular lookout point that provides sweeping views of the coastline and the entrada of the sea, especially nice at dawn or dusk.
Food in Nachikatsuura
Nachikatsuura Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
This local specialty features bonito fish lightly seared and marinated in a soy-based sauce. It's a must-try for seafood enthusiasts. You can find it at various seafood restaurants along the waterfront.
Must-Try!
Ise Ebi, or spiny lobster, is a delicacy in Nachikatsuura. Enjoy it grilled or in a hot pot for a delightful seafood experience. Look for it at specialty seafood establishments in the area.
For a unique taste of the area, try Awabi no Dobujiru, a soup made from abalone, a local sea snail. It's often served in traditional Japanese-style restaurants.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Visit the bustling fish market to sample a variety of fresh seafood and local snacks. From sashimi to grilled fish, it's a great place to experience the region's culinary offerings.
Head to the food stalls along the beach to indulge in freshly prepared seafood skewers, takoyaki (octopus balls), and other local street food delights.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
In Japanese culture, bowing is a traditional form of greeting and showing respect. When meeting someone, it is common to bow slightly. The deeper the bow, the more respect is conveyed. Always return a bow when one is given to you.
When entering homes or certain traditional establishments, it is customary to remove your shoes. Look for designated areas for shoe removal, and often, you will be provided with indoor slippers to wear.
Maintaining a low volume in public spaces is important in Japanese culture. Speaking softly, especially on public transport or in shared spaces, shows consideration for others. It’s also respectful to silence your phone and avoid making loud noises.
Safety
Tipping in Nachikatsuura
Ensure a smooth experience
In Nachikatsuura, as in much of Japan, tipping is not a common practice and can sometimes be seen as rude. Service providers, such as restaurants and taxi drivers, typically do not expect tips, as they take pride in their work and include service charges in their prices. Instead of tipping, expressing gratitude through polite words and gestures is appreciated.
In Nachikatsuura, payment methods generally include cash and credit/debit cards. Cash is widely accepted, and many locals prefer it for small transactions. Major credit cards are also accepted in many businesses, especially in restaurants and hotels that cater to tourists. Mobile payment options have been growing in popularity, but cash remains dominant in many areas.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Spring (March to May) is a beautiful time to visit Nachikatsuura, as cherry blossoms bloom throughout the area. Temperatures range from mild to warm, making it ideal for outdoor activities. Expect vibrant colors and various local festivals celebrating the season.
Summer (June to August) is hot and humid, with temperatures often exceeding 30°C (86°F). This season is perfect for beachgoers and those who enjoy water activities, but be prepared for occasional rain and thunderstorms. The lush greenery and local summer festivals offer a vibrant atmosphere.
Autumn (September to November) is a fantastic time to visit, with cooler temperatures and stunning fall foliage. Expect picturesque landscapes and pleasant weather. Autumn also features harvest festivals and events that highlight local culture.
Winter (December to February) can be chilly, with temperatures dropping, especially at night. Though not as popular for tourism, this season offers a serene landscape. Visitors can enjoy hot springs and local winter festivals, showcasing traditional winter activities.
Nachikatsuura at Night
Hiking in Nachikatsuura
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
An ancient pilgrimage route that offers scenic views and a mix of challenging and moderate hiking trails. It is known for its historical significance and beautiful landscapes.
Known for its stunning waterfall and spiritual significance, Mount Nachi offers hiking trails with breathtaking views and opportunities to explore the surrounding nature and Shinto shrines.
A relatively easy hike that leads to beautiful waterfalls. The trail is surrounded by lush greenery and provides a peaceful atmosphere for nature lovers.
While primarily a shrine, the surrounding area offers several hiking trails that connect to the larger Kumano Kodo network, perfect for those looking to explore sacred sites and nature.
A series of hiking trails that traverse the mountain group offering varied difficulty levels, lush forests, and unique flora and fauna native to the region.
Aiports
How to reach Nachikatsuura by plane.
Located approximately 40 km from Nachikatsuura, Nanki-Shirahama Airport serves domestic flights and is a gateway to the southern region of Japan.
Located about 145 km from Nachikatsuura, Kansai International Airport is an international airport serving the Osaka area, offering a wide range of international flights.
Approximately 185 km away, Kumamoto Airport connects the Kumamoto region with various domestic and some international destinations.
Situated around 173 km from Nachikatsuura, Okayama Airport provides both domestic and limited international flights.
About 220 km from Nachikatsuura, this international airport serves the Nagoya area and offers a large number of international and domestic flights.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The predominant demographic group in Nachikatsuura, consisting of native Japanese residents.
Includes expatriates and long-term foreign nationals living in the area, though they make up a smaller percentage of the population.
Visitors from other regions and countries, contributing to the area’s economy, especially during peak seasons.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
A traditional Japanese sport where two wrestlers, called rikishi, face off in a circular ring.
A popular sport in Japan, enjoyed at both high school and professional levels, with local teams often having dedicated fan bases.
Growing rapidly in popularity, soccer is played at youth, amateur, and professional levels across Japan.
Another popular sport in Japan, with many schools and leagues providing opportunities for both males and females.
Various forms of martial arts, including Judo, Karate, and Aikido, are widely practiced and respected in Japanese culture.
Enjoyed by many, with numerous local clubs and competitions organized throughout the year.
A common sport in schools that includes various competitive events such as running and jumping.
With coastal areas nearby, surfing is a popular sport among locals and tourists because of the favorable waves.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Nachikatsuura.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
While seafood is prominent, some restaurants in Nachikatsuura offer vegetarian and vegan-friendly dishes such as tempura, tofu-based meals, and vegetable sushi rolls. It's advisable to communicate dietary preferences clearly when dining out.
Though it may require some effort, travelers with gluten intolerance can find options like grilled fish, rice dishes, and certain local snacks in the area. Communicating dietary restrictions in advance is recommended for a smoother dining experience.