Things to Do in Wakayama
Hand-picked sights and experiences across Wakayama.
When to catch the colours in Wakayama?
Average cherry blossom and autumn foliage dates for Wakayama, from the Japan Meteorological Agency's 1991–2020 normals — the fortnight to aim for, not a promise for any particular year.
- Cherry blossom
- First flowersMar 24
- Full bloomApr 3
- Autumn foliage
- Leaves turnDec 6
- Peak viewingDec 6 – Dec 20
Where to look next?
The prefectures we've mapped so far, nearest to Wakayama first.
Frequently Asked Questions
Kōyasan — the mountaintop monastery town where you sleep in temples — the Kumano Kodō pilgrimage trails, Nachi Falls beside its pagoda, and the onsen and beaches of Shirahama. It's Japan's spiritual deep south.
It's the whole point: temple lodging (shukubō) with vegetarian shōjin ryōri dinner, morning prayers, and Okunoin's lantern-lit cemetery after the day visitors leave — one of Japan's singular experiences. Book temples well ahead.
No — the classic Nakahechi sections can be walked in comfortable day stages between villages with luggage shuttles, and buses bail you out at many points. Serious multi-day treks are there if you want them.