Things To Do
in Shingū
Shingū is a city located in Wakayama Prefecture, in the Kii Peninsula of Japan. Known for its lush natural scenery, Shingū is situated along the Kumano River and is surrounded by mountains and forests. The city is famous for its spiritual significance, being a gateway to the Kumano Sanzan, a sacred site of pilgrimage in Japan.
Shingū is also home to the annual Kumano Fireworks Festival, a popular summer event that attracts visitors from all over the country.
- "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): $40 - $100
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $8 - $30
- ☕ Coffee: $2 - $5
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $1 - $3
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $40 - $80
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $30 - $70
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a visit to Kumano Hayatama Taisha, an important Shinto shrine. Enjoy the serene atmosphere and beautiful architecture as you take in the morning air.
After lunch, explore the UNESCO World Heritage site, Kumano Kodo trails. Hiking through lush forests will give you a taste of Japan's natural beauty.
End the day with a relaxing stroll along Shingū River. Grab dinner at a local izakaya to sample traditional Japanese cuisine.
Visit the breathtaking Nachi Falls, one of the tallest waterfalls in Japan. Spend some time taking photos and enjoying the surrounding scenery.
Head to Nachi Taisha Shrine and learn about its historical significance. The stunning views from the shrine make it a perfect spot for reflection.
Enjoy dinner at a nearby restaurant known for its fresh seafood. Relax and take in the tranquil sounds of nature surrounding you.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Rich cultural history and heritage, with important historical sites such as the Kumano Hayatama Taisha shrine.
- Beautiful natural scenery, including the surrounding mountains and rivers, ideal for outdoor activities.
- A tranquil and peaceful atmosphere, making it a great place for relaxation and reflection.
- Strong local community and traditions, with various festivals throughout the year showcasing local culture.
- Limited access to modern amenities and services compared to larger cities.
- Aging population, which may lead to fewer social and community activities for younger people.
- Potential language barrier for non-Japanese speakers, which could affect travel and communication.
- Transportation options may be limited, making it difficult to travel to nearby cities or attractions.
Best Activities in Shingū
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Explore the historic pilgrim trails and picturesque natural scenery of the Kumano Kodo ancient pilgrimage route.
Enjoy the stunning views of Japan's tallest waterfall, surrounded by lush greenery and a serene atmosphere.
Relax on the sandy shores and take a dip in the crystal-clear waters of this beautiful beach in Shingū.
Tours
Uncover the best of Shingū with these unforgettable tours.
Places to Visit in Shingū
Visit one of these nice places.
Scenic trails offering beautiful views of nature, shrines, and historical landmarks.
A stunning Shinto shrine nestled in the mountains featuring waterfalls and picturesque surroundings.
A majestic waterfall surrounded by lush greenery and offering breathtaking photo opportunities.
Food in Shingū
Shingū Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Savor the exquisite taste of tender and flavorful Kumano beef, raised in the surrounding region. Known for its marbled texture, this delicacy is best enjoyed in Yakiniku restaurants like Matsukawa.
Must-Try!
Indulge in the sweet, succulent flesh of Ise Ebi, a type of spiny lobster abundant in local waters. Visit seafood markets or seafood restaurants like Kitaro for the freshest catch.
Try the unique tangy-sweet flavor of Kishu Nankou plum, often used in umeboshi (pickled plums) or plum wine. Look for specialty stores like Umekura for a taste of this local delicacy.
Unique Experiences
Get to know Shingū better with these unique experiences.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Explore the bustling Shingū Fish Market, where you can sample fresh seafood and sashimi, including Ise Ebi, while immersing yourself in the lively atmosphere of local vendors and food stalls.
Discover a diverse array of street food at Nanki-Shirahama Toretore Market, offering everything from seafood skewers to regional snacks like Kishu plum products and local confectionery.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
In Shingū, it is customary to bow as a sign of respect when greeting someone, especially when meeting elders or those of higher status.
Respectful behavior in Shingū includes removing shoes before entering someone's home, a traditional inn, or certain other establishments.
When visiting temples or shrines in Shingū, it is important to observe silence and speak softly out of respect for the religious and spiritual nature of the surroundings.
Hidden Gems
Discover the hidden gems of Shingū with these exclusive activities.
Safety
Tipping in Shingū
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is not a common practice in Japan, including Shingū. In fact, it is often considered rude to leave a tip at restaurants, hotels, or other service establishments. Good service is expected and appreciated, but tipping is not customary.
In Shingū, Japan, cash is the most commonly used form of payment, and credit cards are widely accepted in many establishments. However, it's always a good idea to carry some cash as there are still some places that may not accept cards, especially in more rural areas.
Top Things To Do
Engage in these activities to dive deeper into Shingū.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Best time to visit Shingū, Japan is in spring (March to May) when cherry blossoms bloom and the weather is mild.
Summer (June to August) in Shingū is warm and humid, with occasional typhoons. It's a good time for beach activities and hiking.
Autumn (September to November) offers pleasant weather and beautiful fall foliage, making it a good time for outdoor activities and sightseeing.
Winter (December to February) in Shingū is cold, but the city has a peaceful atmosphere and is a good time to experience local festivals and hot springs.
Shingū at Night
Hiking in Shingū
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
An ancient pilgrimage route that offers stunning views of the mountains and the coastline, perfect for experienced hikers.
A scenic hiking trail that connects to the Kumano Kodo, featuring beautiful natural landscapes and cultural heritage sites.
This trail provides a moderate hike with a mix of elevation gain and stunning views of the surrounding forest and mountains.
A less traveled trail that leads through lush forests to spectacular coastal views, ideal for nature lovers.
A hike that takes you from the Nachi Waterfall to the sacred Nachi Taisha Shrine, offering both natural beauty and cultural significance.
Unforgettable Journeys
Delve deeper into Shingū through these rare and unique activities.
Aiports
How to reach Shingū by plane.
Located about 80 km west of Shingū, Kansai International Airport serves as a major hub for international flights in the Kansai region.
Situated approximately 120 km southwest of Shingū, Kumamoto Airport offers both domestic and limited international flights.
Located around 150 km northeast of Shingū, Centrair Airport serves the Nagoya area and provides numerous international destinations.
Also known as Osaka International Airport, it is about 90 km northwest of Shingū and mainly handles domestic flights with some international services.
Located about 160 km west of Shingū, Nagasaki Airport provides both international and domestic flights.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The primary ethnic group in Shingū, consisting of the vast majority of the population.
Includes various expatriates and immigrant communities from other countries residing in Shingū.
A small indigenous group that is historically present in various parts of Japan, including areas near Shingū.
A group from the Okinawa region, with some presence in mainland Japan including areas like Shingū.
The Soul of Shingū
Discover the essence of Shingū through these truly unique experiences.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Baseball is a highly popular sport in Shingū, enjoying a strong local following and youth participation.
Soccer has gained popularity in Shingū, with local clubs fostering talent and community support.
Various forms of traditional martial arts, such as Kendo and Judo, are practiced widely in Shingū, promoting discipline and physical fitness.
Running events, including marathons and community races, are popular in Shingū, encouraging residents to engage in fitness and outdoor activities.
Basketball is also enjoyed by many, with local teams and school competitions contributing to its popularity.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Shingū.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
While traditional Japanese cuisine heavily features seafood and meat, many restaurants in Shingū offer vegetarian and vegan options including tofu-based dishes, vegetable tempura, and salads. Places like Sakura Cafe and Mugiwaraboushi provide such dietary choices.
Individuals with gluten intolerance can enjoy rice-based dishes like sushi, sashimi, and rice balls, as well as exploring carefully labeled menus in various restaurants. It's advisable to communicate dietary needs clearly, and restaurants like Sakura Cafe are accommodating in this aspect.
Cultural Immersions
Experience the heart and soul of Shingū with these cultural adventures.
