Tanabe

Day Trips

Make the most of your day with our curated plans, packed with Tanabe's hidden gems and unique experiences!

day 1
Explore Tanabe's Heritage
morning
:

Visit the old town area to see traditional buildings and the historic streets. Enjoy a local breakfast at a nearby café that offers fresh seafood.

afternoon
:

Explore the Katsuura area and stroll along the beautiful coastline. Make sure to try some local dishes at a seaside restaurant.

evening
:

Relax at a local onsen and enjoy a soothing hot spring bath. End your day with a delicious dinner featuring Tanabe’s famous sushi.

day 2
Nature Adventures in Tanabe
morning
:

Start your day with a hike in the nearby mountains, soaking in the fresh air and beautiful scenery. Bring a packed lunch to enjoy amidst nature.

afternoon
:

Continue your hike to discover local wildlife and stunning vistas. Visit a nearby waterfall to cool off and take photos.

evening
:

Return to town and dine at a local izakaya for an authentic experience. Share stories and enjoy the lively atmosphere with other travelers.

day 3
Sushi Tasting Tour
morning
:

Join a sushi-making class to learn the art of this beloved culinary tradition. Enjoy the fruits of your labor as a freshly prepared breakfast.

afternoon
:

Visit a local market to explore various seafood offerings and sample different types of sushi. Engage with local vendors about their special recipes.

evening
:

Enjoy a sushi dinner at a premier restaurant showcasing the best Tanabe has to offer. Pair your meal with local sake for the full experience.

day 4
Biking Through Tanabe
morning
:

Rent a bicycle and cycle along the Kumano Kodo pilgrimage routes. Enjoy the scenic countryside and the smell of blooming flowers.

afternoon
:

Stop at various shrines along the route and learn about their history. Pack a picnic lunch and enjoy it at a scenic viewpoint.

evening
:

Return to Tanabe and treat yourself to a delicious meal at a local ramen shop. Spend the evening walking along the river reflecting on your adventures.

day 5
Cultural Day in Tanabe
morning
:

Visit local art galleries and studios to appreciate the creativity of Tanabe's artists. Try your hand at a pottery workshop.

afternoon
:

Take part in a traditional tea ceremony to learn about Japanese culture and customs. Savor the delicate flavors of matcha.

evening
:

Attend a cultural performance or local festival if available. Enjoy dinner at a restaurant that focuses on seasonal ingredients.

day 6
Temples and Shrines
morning
:

Start with a visit to the Kumano Nachi Taisha shrine, a UNESCO World Heritage site. Take in the stunning architecture and surrounding nature.

afternoon
:

Visit other nearby temples, such as the Fushiogami Shrine, to appreciate Japan’s spiritual heritage. Reflect on the serene atmosphere.

evening
:

Dine at a restaurant that specializes in shojin ryori (Buddhist vegetarian cuisine). Enjoy a peaceful evening stroll through the town.

day 7
Walking the Kumano Kodo Trail
morning
:

Gear up for a day hike on the Kumano Kodo trail, famous for its beautiful views and magical forests. Ensure to pack water and snacks.

afternoon
:

Continue your hike, taking breaks to enjoy the scenery and historical markers. Engage with fellow hikers and share stories.

evening
:

Finish your trek and refresh yourself at a local onsen. Celebrate your adventure with a hearty meal at a nearby eatery.

day 8
Sun and Sea in Tanabe
morning
:

Spend the morning at the beach soaking up the sun and swimming in the ocean. Enjoy a breakfast of fresh fruit from a beachside vendor.

afternoon
:

Try water sports like paddleboarding or kayaking in the serene waters. Relax under a beach umbrella with a book.

evening
:

Watch the sunset over the sea, a breathtaking view that shouldn’t be missed. Have dinner at a beachfront restaurant with freshly caught seafood.

day 9
Sake Brewery Tour
morning
:

Start the day with a guided tour of a local sake brewery, learning about the brewing process. Sample different varieties for breakfast.

afternoon
:

Enjoy a tasting session with lunch offerings that highlight local pairings with sake. Engage with the brewers and ask questions.

evening
:

Bring home a bottle of your favorite sake as a souvenir. Dine at a local restaurant that thoughtfully pairs dishes with various sake selections.

day 10
Bird Watching in Tanabe
morning
:

Head to the Kumano Sea coast for early morning bird watching. Bring binoculars and a guidebook to identify native species.

afternoon
:

Visit local parks and nature reserves to spot more bird species and enjoy nature walks. Take pictures of the beautiful scenery.

evening
:

Dine at a local restaurant featuring dishes made with seasonal ingredients. Reflect on the day’s birding adventures over a relaxed dinner.

Discover Tanabe

Read more in our Tanabe 2024 Travel Guide.

Tanabe Travel Guide