Why Nachikatsuura Might Be Japan’s Biggest Secret
Nachikatsuura, the gateway to Nachi Falls, is a gem in the Wakayama Prefecture. At first glance, it may seem like a sleepy coastal town. Still, it’s become a hive of activity just a stone’s throw from the ancient Kumano Kodo pilgrimage. It is home to some of the country’s most beautiful coastline. With over 200 hot springs and Japan’s biggest tuna market, what’s not to love?
Visit the Awe-Inspiring Nachi Falls
Several sights characterize Japan's essence, and I guarantee that if images of this extraordinary country have consumed you, you’ll have come across Nachi Falls and the spectacular three-tiered pagoda. The waterfall, cascading down 133 meters of craggy rock face, is the tallest in Japan and sits in perfect harmony with its adjacent temple and shrine.
Walk the Ancient Kumano Kodo
Pilgrims have been walking the ancient Kumano Kodo trail, which winds through the heavily forested mountains of the Kii Peninsula, for over a thousand years. This spiritual journey is deeply rooted in Shintoism and provides some of Japan’s most coveted nature. Pass through silent forests, past ramshackle tea houses, through farming villages, and over breathtaking mountain passes.
Soak in Japan’s Best Onsens
The archway over Kii-Katsuura welcomes you to the town of World Heritage, Onsen, and Fresh Tuna. Rightly so, the area is home to over 200 hot springs, making it the perfect place to soak your weary traveler's feet, especially if you’re fresh off the Kumano Kodo. One of the finest Onsen in the area is at Hotel Urashima, which boasts a large oceanfront cave with unrivaled views over the Pacific.
Explore the Famous Tuna Market
If you’re an early riser, you won’t miss the bustling sounds of Japan’s biggest tuna market echoing from the port. Beginning at 7 a.m. every day except Wednesday and Sunday, Katsuura’s fish market is a sight to behold. Thousands of tuna are hauled in daily and auctioned off to buyers Japan-wide. Get to the port early to watch the spectacle and then pop into the Katsuura market for a traditional Japanese breakfast.
Stroll Nachi Beach and Ben Ten Island
On the other side of the peninsula, you’ll find the sweeping Nachi Bay and Benten Island. Ideal for an early morning stroll after exploring the fish market, you’ll be blown away by the majestic mountains sloping towards the Pacific Ocean. Much of Japan’s coastline is characterized by concrete wave breaks, but this untouched stretch of sand remains crystal clear. Wander round to Benten Island, keeping an eye out for the hidden Tori gate, only accessible during low tide, before heading back to Katsuura.
Check Out the Shrines and Temples
If you’re a culture fanatic, check all three shrines in the Kumano Sanzan trio off your bucket list. Visiting all three in one day might be a push, however, if you’re an adventurous traveler, a 50km cycle will take you from Kii-Katsuura to Kumano Hayama Taisha and Kumano Nachi Taisha, with the bonus of seeing the Nachi Falls. This spectacular ride will take you along the coastline towards Shingu, a fabulous place to stop for lunch, before stopping at two of Japan’s most famous shrines.
Join Mission Retreat in Japan
One of travel’s great joys is finding the time to be still. It’s often during quiet times that we can cultivate a deeper connection to God and find answers to some fundamental questions.
Is there a creator behind our beautiful world? How does the idea of God fit into leisure travel? How do rest and reflection impact our spiritual wellness? What can we gain from spending time in nature?
These are some of the questions you may be asking yourself. Mission Retreat is a weekend of rest, reflection, and rejuvenation for curious travelers like you. Join us in central Nachikatsuura for a weekend connecting to God and exploring our glorious world. If you’d like to know more about Mission Retreat, please visit mission-retreat.com or email Belinda Maude at belinda@mission-retreat.com.