Things to Do

[Wakayama] 5 Best Things to Do in Kumano: UNESCO Sites & Fresh Tuna Guide 

Sacred Waterfalls and Ancient Shrines: A Journey Through Kumano’s Spiritual Heart

Nestled in the heart of Wakayama Prefecture, the sacred sites of Kumano offer visitors a profound journey through Japan’s spiritual and natural heritage. As you traverse the ancient pilgrimage routes and witness the harmony between man-made structures and natural wonders, you’ll discover a sequence of unforgettable experiences that culminate in one of Japan’s finest culinary offerings. This guide will take you through the must-visit locations in the area, ending with a remarkable dining experience that perfectly caps off your spiritual journey.

Nachi Falls (那智の滝)

Standing at an impressive 133 meters, Nachi Falls is the crown jewel of the region and Japan’s highest waterfall. For over 1,300 years, this sacred cascade has drawn pilgrims seeking spiritual enlightenment through waterfall meditation. The falls, designated as a UNESCO World Heritage site, serve as both a natural wonder and the dwelling of a Shinto deity enshrined at Hiro Shrine.

Kumano Nachi Taisha (熊野那智大社) 

This magnificent Shinto shrine, one of the three major Kumano Sanzan shrines, sits halfway up Mt. Nachi with commanding views of the ocean. Its vermillion-lacquered buildings and torii gates create a stunning contrast against the natural surroundings. The shrine complex includes an 850-year-old camphor tree with a walkable tunnel, making it a unique cultural landmark.

Nachisan Seigantoji Temple (青岸渡寺) 

Adjacent to Kumano Nachi Taisha, this temple marks the starting point of the Saigoku Pilgrimage route. Its iconic three-story vermillion pagoda creates a perfect frame for Nachi Falls, exemplifying the harmonious blend of human architecture and natural beauty. As Kumano’s oldest structure, it offers spectacular views of the surrounding landscape, including the Pacific Ocean.

Kumano Kodo (熊野古道)

This network of ancient pilgrimage routes, traversed by emperors and commoners alike for over a millennium, offers a 1.3-kilometer path leading to the grand shrine and falls. The moss-covered stone steps and towering cedars create an atmosphere of timeless spirituality. UNESCO recognized these routes as a World Heritage site in 2004, preserving their historical and cultural significance.

Takehara (まぐろ料理 竹原) 

After immersing yourself in the spiritual and natural wonders of Kumano, complete your journey at Takehara, a renowned restaurant just three minutes from JR Kii-Katsuura Station. This intimate counter-style establishment serves some of the finest Nama Maguro (fresh tuna) in Japan, sourced directly from Katsuura fishing port – the country’s largest tuna port. While the area offers numerous seafood options, Takehara stands out for its expertly prepared maguro set meals featuring thick-cut sashimi that melts in your mouth, making it the perfect culmination to your Kumano experience.

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