Okayama Itinerary - A Travel Guide Blog

Okayama and Kurashiki Itinerary: A Travel Guide Blog

posted in: Chugoku Japan, Kansai Wide Japan | 0

Last updated on January 11th, 2025

In this Okayama travel guide blog, you’ll find several things to do and how to plan your itinerary to Okayama City and Kurashiki. The best Okayama day trip from Osaka or Kyoto.

Located in the Seto Inland Sea in the Okayama Prefecture, Okayama (岡山) is a less-traveled destination compared to Kyoto and Osaka. This hidden gem is well-known among locals for its breathtaking scenery, rich culture, and delicious local cuisine. The most notable attractions include the Okayama Castle and Korakuen, the iconic landscape garden. It is a perfect place to take a day trip from Osaka or Kyoto since the environment is laid-back and peaceful.

During my visit to Oakayama, we weren’t expecting much from Okayama at first. But by the end of my trip, we were quite impressed by how charming this place really is. We truly our time here, and that’s why we’ve decided to write this Okayama itinerary  so that hopefully you can get some inspiration for an upcoming visit.

In this Okayama travel guide blog, we’re sharing a one-day Okayama itinerary highlighting the must-see attractions, how to get to Okayama, how to travel around the city and Kurashiki, and other helpful travel tips. Continue more on what to expect with this Okayama day trip!

How To Get to Okayama

How To Get to Okayama

Getting to Okayama with Shinkansen – Okayama’s location is exactly what I think makes it worth visiting. It is located on the Sanyo Shinkansen (bullet train) that connects Shin-Osaka and Fukuoka. So Okayama is easy to access with a 1-hour Shinkansen ride from Osaka or Hiroshima.

If you have a Japan Rail (JR) Pass, you can use it to cover this part of the transportation. Take note due to the high price of a JR Pass, this option ONLY makes sense if you already have a JR pass (which you can purchase here before your trip).

Alternatively, consider purchasing the Kansai Wide Area Pass or JR Kansai Hiroshima Pass if you plan to visit the nearby attractions.

Rent a car and driving in Okayama – If you have an international driver’s license and are comfortable with driving in a foreign country, this is the most convenient and easy option. There are many off-the-beaten-path destinations where you can plan for your Okayama itinerary. You can compare the car rental from Rentalcar.com with customer reputation.

Planning to visit Okayama? Read on our Okayama Checklist Guide for all the essentials:

1. Planning a trip to Okayama – read more Okayama Travel itinerary Guide.
2. How To Get to Okayama
– Self-Driving: Find the best prices on a RentalCars from Booking.com.
– Save on transportation: JR West Kansai Wide Area Pass [Get from Klook] , [Get from KKday]
3. What To Do: Okayama Castle, Korakuen Garden, Kurashiki Bikan Historical Quarter.

Getting Around in Wakayama City

Getting Around Okayama

Okayama City is easily explored on foot or using public transport. The Okayama Station is centrally located in the city, you can either walk or take public transport to most of the attractions in the city. The popular attractions Okayama Castle and Korakuen Garden are about 20 minutes on foot.

Besides, you can also use the trams (streetcars) to travel between Okayama Station and Okayama Castle. The streetcar costs about ¥120.

How Many Days For Okayama

Okayama is a popular short-trip destination from Osaka, loved by locals and tourists alike. You can visit Okayama as a day trip or as a short 2-day trip. Some visitors even opt to spend as much as 4 days exploring the nearby attractions and further to the Chugoku region.

What To Do for Okayama Itinerary

Okayama Station
Statue of Momotaro (the peach boy) at Okayama Station

Here are the best things to do in Okayama during your day trip. Feel free to adjust your Okayama itinerary based on your interest and schedule.

What To Do for 1-Day Okayama Itinerary:

  • Visit Okayama Castle
  • Walk across the Tsukimi Bridge
  • Explore Okayama Korakuen Garden
  • From Okayama City to Kurashiki
  • Kurashiki Bikan Historical Quarter
  • Kurashiki Denim Street

Okayama Castle

Visit Okayama Castle

This itinerary begins at JR Okayama station from one-hour Shinkansen ride from Osaka. Next, we first head to Okayama Castle, one of the most popular things to see and do in Okayama.

Okayama Castle (岡山城, Okayama-jō), also known as Crow Castle was completed in 1597. Different from the white-colored Japanese Castle, Okayama Castle is renowned for its striking black lacquer appearance. 

Okayama Castle

Like most castles around Japan, it was attacked, destroyed, and burnt down during World War II. The restoration was done from time to time and it replicated from what it used to look like.

Exhibition inside Okayama Castle

There are many exhibitions and stories in both Japanese and English translated. Take note that photo is not allowed on the original artifacts. But you get pictures of yourself dressed up in outfits of the time or use the 3D art corners to photograph yourself in dramatic poses. It was a fun experience.

Aerial View from Okayama Castle

The top floor offers panoramic views of the surrounding area. You will be able to see the Korakuen Garden, which is one of the Three Great Gardens of Japan!

Okayama Castle (岡山城)
Opening Hours: Daily from 9:00 to 17:30 (last Admission 17:00)
Admission Fee: ¥400 for 15 years and above.
Getting there: Take the tram from Okayama Station to Shiroshita. From there, walk for 5 minutes.

Okayama Travel Tips: Purchase the combo ticket to visit both Okayama Castle and Korakuen Garden to save some money.

Tsukimi Bridge

From Okayama Castle and Korakuen Garden

From the Okayama Castle, head over to the next destination, Korakuen Garden. You will walk across the picturesque Tsukimi Bridge. This steel pedestrian bridge crosses the Asahi River and connects Ujo Park in Okayama Castle and Korakuen Garden. A pleasant walk to pass by the bridge.

Okayama Korakuen Garden

Okayama Itinerary - Korakuen Garden

Another must-visit attraction in Okayama is Korakuen Garden, which is located beside the Okayama Castle. It is known as one of the Three Great Gardens in Japan along with Kenrokuen in Kanazawa and Kairakuen in Mito.

Korakuen Garden

The exquisite Korakuen garden was completed in 1700 during the Edo period. Whilst it was severely damaged by the air raid during World War II, Korakuen was rebuilt and retained the garden to its original glory after the war.

Teahouses in Korakuen Garden

The garden is very well maintained with lovely ponds, trees, teahouses, streams, and huge open spaces. A fantastic traditional Japanese garden to visit in the city.

Okayama Korakuen (岡山後楽園)
Opening Hours: 7:30 to 18:00 (20 March to September), 8:00 to 17:00 (October to 19 March)
Admission Fee: ¥410 for 15 years and above, ¥140 for 65 years and above.

From Okayama City to Kurashiki

Depending on your Okayama itinerary, we recommend continuing to head to Kurashiki (倉敷市). Although the Kurashiki is worth a day trip, you can spend your afternoon time strolling the canal town during your trip to Okayama city.

From Okayama Station, take the short 20-minute train ride to Kurashiki Station. The train operates frequently throughout the day. Once you reach Kurashiki, it is a 10-minute stroll to the main attractions at Kurashiki Bikan Historical Quarter.

Kurashiki Bikan Historical Quarter

Boat Ride in Kurashiki Bikan Historical Quarter

Kurashiki Bikan Historical Quarter (倉敷美観地区) is known as Japan’s Venice. The picturesque town with charming traditional white-walled warehouses dating back to the Edo period (1603-1867) line along the canal.

Visitors can take a boat ride in the canal or get a rickshaw to experience the city if the weather is good.

Traditional white-walled warehouses in Kurashiki Bikan Historical Quarter

The warehouses are now changed into museums, souvenir shops, restaurants, craft stores, and pottery shops scattered around the area. The place is just spectacular and makes you think you’ve slipped back in time.

We had a great time strolling around the historical Kurasahi and fell in love with it.

Relaxing Stroll in Kurashiki Bikan Historical Quarter

Most visitors will spend time strolling around the town and checking out the various shops, cafes, and museums. There are many restaurants that serve local cuisine and Udon, which you should also definitely try out while you’re here.

Take note that most of the shops are closed from 17:00 to 18:00 so it is best to advise early.

Kurashiki - Ohara Museum of Art
Ohara Museum of Art

There are a number of small museums around the canals. The popular museums include the Ohara Museum of Art, Museum of Folk Craft, and Folk Toys Museum are all located within the area. We didn’t have time to check up on the museum, plan your itinerary if you’re interested in them.

Kurashiki Denim Street

Okayama Travel Guide Blog - Kurashiki Denim Street

If you are a denim lover, Kurashiki Denim Street is a must-visit.

In Kurashiki Bikan Chiku Area, there is a shopping alley with a few shops selling high-quality Japanese denim brands which Okayama is famous. Japanese famous denim brands such as “Kojima Genes”, and Momotaro Jeans” are available and you can see and buy the fashionable denim items or even customized it.

The street also offers some denim-themed sweets and snacks such as soft serve ice cream which is covered with denim blue!

All in all, we highly recommended to couple your visit to Kurashiki Bikan with Okayama City, or make it a full day to immerse yourself in Kurashiki’s traditional warehouse buildings.

Where To Stay

Depending on your Okayama itinerary, you’ll either continue to your next destination at the end of the day or spend the night in Okayama City or Kurashiki. You can choose to stay at a hotel close to Okayama Station or go to a guesthouse in Kurashiki.

The OneFive Okayama is a budget-friendly 3-star hotel located near the Okayama Castle area. The hotel offers spacious rooms with a simple modern style. Good value for money.

Mitsui Garden Hotel Okayama is a well-priced hotel conveniently located near Okayama Station with a 3-minute walk. Rooms are modern and large by Japanese standards. Guests can also enjoy the public bath looking out on a Japanese garden.

There are some unique houses along the canal in the Kurashiki Bikan Historical Quarter. It is best to stay overnight in the historical quarter and you can enjoy the scenery in the daytime and also during the sunset.

Kurashiki Ivy Square is a historical building that was originally built as a red-brick cotton mill in 1889. This family-friendly hotel is located at the edge of the Bikan Historical Quarter. The rooms are spacious and guests can enjoy the onsite public bath which is a great plus.

For more accommodation options, read more: Where To Stay in Okayama: Best Hotels and Areas.

Overall: A Visit to Okayama

That’s it! We hope this Okayama itinerary can work as a travel guide for your own trip to this charming city, or at least give you some inspiration of what there is to do in Okayama.

Okayama is not on a typical itinerary for Japan and is often overlooked by first-time visitors. But if you have more time to spare and looking for a day trip from Osaka, we highly recommend planning a visit to Okayama City and Kurashiki. Enjoy your trip there!

Related Read: Where To Stay in Okayama: Best Hotels and Areas

Final Bonus Tips: JR Kansai Wide Area Pass is a super-saving transport pass that allows you to explore the Kansai region and also Okayama! The Bullet Train “Sanyo Shinkansen” which runs between Shin-Osaka and Okayama is covered with this pass. You can plan your itinerary well to fully optimize the pass for your trip to Okayama.

Traveling to Chugoku Region? Make sure to check out what you should not miss when visiting the area:

Where To Stay in Nagasaki

Where To Stay in Nagasaki: Best Hotels and Areas

posted in: Kyushu Japan | 0

Last updated on January 11th, 2025

Read more below for a comprehensive accommodation guide to choose where to stay in Nagasaki for first-time visitors.

Nagasaki is a vibrant and exciting city, full of history and culture. There are many places to visit in Nagasaki and you can spend a couple of days going around the city. The city is easy to navigate with public transport well-connected. So finding a great place to stay in Nagasaki should be easy.

If you’re looking for where to stay in Nagasaki hotel while visiting this beautiful city, we’ve got you covered.

In this Nagasaki accommodation article, we will provide you with our recommended neighborhoods, districts, hotels, and the best places to stay in Nagasaki that are convenient for travelers to visit the city.

Where To Stay in Nagasaki

There are three best areas to stay for first-time visitors to Nagasaki – Dozamachi (Downtown Nagasaki), Shinchi Chinatown, and Daikokumachi (Nagasaki Station Area). All three areas are easily accessible and well-connected with public transport.

Dozamachi (Downtown Nagasaki) – the most convenient area to stay for first-time visitors to the city. This area is the heart of the city and boasts with a variety of shops, department stores, shops, and restaurants.

Shinchi Chinatown – Lively area to keep everyone entertained with plenty of restaurants and bars around. A 5-minute walk from Dozamachi area.

Daikokumachi (Nagasaki Station Area) is the best area to stay in Nagasaki for travelers who looking for a convenient base. It is the main city transportation hub with Shinkansen, JR line, tram, and bus stops in the area.

You can find accommodations in Nagasaki on booking.com or Agoda. Check out some of the top-rated hotels with more details with below accommodation guide below.

Dozamachi (Downtown Nagasaki)

The Dozamachi is the best area to stay for first-time visitors to Nagasaki. This area is the heart of the city and the downtown area of Nagasaki city. This district boasts a variety of shops, department stores, and restaurants, as well as a good choice of hotels. Hamamachi Shopping District is also located in the area.

Why stay in Dozamachi (Downtown Nagasaki)

  • Convenient for sightseeing in Nagasaki with transport access.
  • Easy access to affordable shopping and restaurants.
  • Good variety of mid-range hotels around the area.

In short, Dozamachi is the best place to stay in Nagasaki if you want to be close to the city’s main shopping and entertainment districts.

Popular Hotels to stay at Dozamachi

Where To stay in Nagasaki on Budget - First Cabin Nagasaki
Where To stay in Nagasaki on Budget – First Cabin Nagasaki

Mid-Range: Hotel Forza Nagasaki is an affordable option for travelers who looking for where to stay in Nagasaki. The property is located in the center of Nagasaki, a 3-minute stroll from the Shianbashi area and Chinatown.

Budget: First Cabin Nagasaki is a clean cabin hotel with fantastic amenities. The cabins are very comfortable to stay in, safe, and secure. The property is located a minute’s walk from Kankodori Station and a 15-minute tram ride from JR Nagasaki Station. A great option for solo and budget travelers.

Shinchi Chinatown

Another 5-minute walk from Dozamachi will bring you to Shinchi Chinatown Nagasaki. The neighboring areas is small and very condensed. The area is lively to keep everyone entertained with plenty of restaurants and bars around. Besides, Shinchi Chinatown is a great option to stay for family travelers as most accommodations offer larger, family rooms from their selection.

Why Stay in Shinchi Chinatown:

  • Easy access to affordable shopping, restaurants, and eateries.
  • Great local atmosphere and is a perfect place to soak in Japanese culture.
  • More options for family travelers.

Popular Hotels in Shinchi Chinatown

Best Hotel Stay - Candeo Hotels Nagasaki Shinchi Chinatown
Best Hotel Stay in Nagasaki with public Bath – Candeo Hotels Nagasaki Shinchi Chinatown

High-Range: Candeo Hotels Nagasaki Shinchi Chinatown – A 4-star hotel with an excellent location at Shinchi Chinatown. It’s easily reachable by tram or a 15-minute walk from the Nagasaki station. The room was clean, comfortable, and tastefully decorated. The onsen on the top floor is fantastic. Overall, it is a very nice hotel.

Mid-Range: Hotel JAL City Nagasaki offers a luxurious stay at a reasonable price for your stay in Nagasaki. The property is centrally located in Chinatown and close to tram and bus stops, making it a great location for sightseeing. It is about a 7-minute stroll from Oranda Zaka and a 15-minute walk from Glover Garden.

Daikokumachi (Nagasaki Station Area)

Daikokumachi (Nagasaki Station Area) is the best area to stay in Nagasaki for travelers who looking for a convenient base. The area is in the middle of the city’s major attractions from the Peace Park at North and Shinchi Chinatown, Dutch Slope, and the Hamamachi Shopping District at South.

Daikokumachi is the main city transportation hub with Shinkansen, JR line, tram, and bus stops in the area. You can take the tram when visiting the city and the ride is fast and affordable. The station area is also great for shopping where the Amu Plaza Nagasaki is right in front of the station. The shopping mall offers local and international brands, some restaurants, and café shops.

Why stay in Daikokumachi (Nagasaki Station Area):

  • Convenient access for variety of public transport such as Shinkansen, JR line, tram, and bus stops in the area.
  • Good variety of tourist hotels around the area.
  • Easy access to shopping, restaurants, and eateries.

Popular Hotels nearby Daikokumach

Where To Stay in Nagasaki - Dormy Inn Premium Nagasaki Ekimae
Where To Stay in Nagasaki – Dormy Inn Premium Nagasaki Ekimae

High-Range: Dormy Inn Premium Nagasaki Ekimae is a great chain onsen hotel in Japan. Guest can access their onsen to relax and complimentary soba noodles for noodles and snacks which is a great plus. The property is conveniently located with is a quick 5-minute walk from the station.

High-Range: JR Kyushu Hotel Nagasaki – Conveniently located to JR Nagasaki Station and Amu Plaza Nagasaki Shopping Mall, JR Kyushu Hotel Nagasaki has easy access to transportation, grocery stores, restaurants, shops, and everything you need. The property features modern rooms with great facilities.

Where to stay in Nagasaki - Hotel Cuore Nagasaki Ekimae
Where to stay in Nagasaki – Hotel Cuore Nagasaki Ekimae

Mid-Range: Hotel Cuore Nagasaki Ekimae offers simple accommodations with clean rooms and comfortable beds. The location is very convenient because it’s located close to Nagasaki Station with 2 tram lines accessible. The staff were very friendly and helpful.

Mid-Range: Hotel Wing Port Nagasaki – Another great mid-budget business location with easy access from Nagasaki Station. There are many restaurants and convenience stores around in the area. The room is compact, but everything is tidy and clean.

Budget Hostel Casa Noda
Budget Hostel Casa Noda

Budget: Hostel Casa Noda Nagasaki is a great option for travelers who looking for where to stay in Nagasaki on a budget. Guests can choose to stay in either a private room with a private bathroom or a dormitory room with bunk beds and a shared bathroom. The hostel is about a 10-15 minute walk from Nagasaki main station and located right in front of the Gotomachi tram stop.

More Other Places to Stay in Nagasaki

Besides the above three popular places, there are also some other great areas to consider when choosing where to stay in Nagasaki.

Best Place to stay in Nagasaki - Hotel Belleview Nagasaki Dejima
Best Place to stay in Nagasaki – Hotel Belleview Nagasaki Dejima

Staying in Dejima District: Once a bustling man-made island built for trading purposes. Although it’s no longer as glorious and important, but it makes for a good attraction that takes you back in time. Besides, it’s easy to travel between downtown Nagasaki. So staying on the Dejima won’t be a problem.

Mid-Range: Hotel Belleview Nagasaki Dejima offers clean simple rooms and comfortable beds for guests to stay in Nagasaki. The hotel is well situated at 5 minutes walking to Dejima Island and walking distance to Chinatown. There’s even a tram stop in front that goes straight to Nagasaki Station which is very convenient.

Hotel Concerto Nagasaki - Room View
Hotel Concerto Nagasaki – Room View

Staying in Peace Park Area: Located west of northern Nagasaki, this area is a popular area to visit by travelers. Staying here means you will be close to Nagasaki’s famous Peace Park and Atomic Bomb Museum. This neighborhood is peaceful and best to stay for travelers who prefer to close to the attractions.

Mid-Range: Hotel Concerto Nagasaki – A nice Japanese hotel located within walking distance from the tram station, Nagasaki Atomic Bomb Museum, and Hypocernter. Rooms are spacious and and lots of facilities. Great value for money.

Overall: Best Place to Stay in Nagasaki

All in all, we hope the above-recommended hotels listed can meet your interest and budget. From our experience, choosing where to stay in Nagasaki depends on what you’re looking for and what you plan on doing during your stay in Nagasaki. There are many great hotels in the city and we assure you you’ll find your stay here.

Related Nagasaki travel blog:

Visiting Kyushu and looking for some inspiration for what to do in Kyushu then be sure to read our Kyushu travel blog here:

Where To Stay in Wakayama

Where To Stay in Wakayama: Best Hotels and Ryokans

posted in: Kansai Wide Japan | 0

Last updated on January 11th, 2025

Traveling around and finding places where to stay in Wakayama City should be easy. The choice of accommodations largely depends on your preferences and the purpose of your visit. Each area offers a unique experience.

Onsen lovers will love staying in a hot spring hotel when visiting Wakayama, and there are quite a few of the best onsen resorts with great sea views to choose from! But there are also some cheaper options too! Most of the accommodations are scattered around the Wakayama station which is great for business travelers and visitors looking for a convenient stay.

Here is our recommendation of the best places to stay in Wakayama City, from budget guesthouses to luxury onsen resorts!

Accommodation Guide: Where To Stay in Wakayama

If you’re looking for a quick answer to the best neighborhoods, below are our recommendations for where to stay in Wakayama based on your interests and prefere

If you’re traveling by public transport and looking for accommodation with trains or buses available, you can choose to stay nearby Wakayama Station (JR line) or Wakayama-Shi Station (Nankai line).

Best hotel to stay nearby Wakayama Station:
High-Range: Hotel Granvia Wakayama and Dormy Inn Premium Wakayama Natural Hot Spring
Mid-Range: Wakayama Urban Hotel and Comfort Hotel Wakayama

Best hotel to stay nearby Nankai Wakayama-Shi Station:
High-Range: Candeo Hotels Nankai Wakayama

Best hotel to stay nearby city’s attraction:
Opposite Wakayama Castle with a great castle view: Daiwa Roynet Hotel Wakayama
Within Wakayama Marina City complex: Wakayama Marina City Hotel

For a tranquil retreat, consider spending one night slightly far away from town. There are a few Japanese resorts where you can enjoy serene sea views and a peaceful atmosphere.
Onsen Resort: Manpa Resort and Kyukamura Kishu-Kada

Planning to visit Wakayama? Read on our Wakayama Checklist Guide for all the essentials:

1. Planning a trip to Wakayama – read more Wakayama Travel itinerary Guide.
2. How To Get to Wakayama
– Self-Driving: Find the best prices on a RentalCars from Booking.com.
– Save on transportation: JR West Kansai Wide Area Pass [Get from Klook] , [Get from KKday]
3. What To Do: Ride the Theme Electric Train, Wakayama Castle, Kuroshio Market.

Hotel Granvia Wakayama

Where to Stay in Wakayama - Hotel Granvia Wakayama

High-Range: Hotel Granvia Wakayama is in a convenient spot making it a popular pick among travelers. It is located right next to the train station which also has a bus terminal making it very convenient to get around.

The hotel offers spacious, clean rooms with all the comforts and amenities you could need. Nice rooftop bar where you can chill with drinks at night. The staff was very friendly and approachable and they were genuinely welcoming. Check for room availability at Hotel Granvia Wakayama.

Dormy Inn Premium Wakayama Natural Hot Spring

Hot Spring Bath from Dormy Inn Premium Wakayama

High-Range: Dormy Inn Premium Wakayama Hot Spring has everything you could want for your accommodation in Wakayama if you are looking for value for your money!

The property is conveniently located within a 7-minute walk from JR Wakayama Station. The rooms are very comfortable and clean. It is a great Japanese hotel chain that offers accommodations with hot spring facilities for guests. It gains its visitors with its free access to indoor and outdoor baths, you’ll surely have a spectacular time when soaking in the hot spring. Plus, complimentary supper soba noodles are included in the late evening.

Wakayama Urban Hotel

Where to Stay in Wakayama - Urban Hotel

Mid-Budget: Wakayama Urban Hotel – For a convenient stay, check out this mid-budget hotel with great reviews. It has an extremely convenient location which is right near JR Wakayama Station, only 3 minutes away by foot. You can rent bikes for free to explore the city.

The rooms are a good size for the Japanese standard with all necessities included. Free buffet-style breakfast is another great plus. Staff are professional and efficient in handling all requests. In comparison to other hotels in the area, Wakayama Urban Hotel is an affordable choice with all the offerings.

Comfort Hotel Wakayama

Where to Stay in Wakayama - Comfort Hotel Wakayama

Mid-Range: Comfort Hotel Wakayama offers a collection of cozy and comfortable rooms designed to cater to your every need, providing a welcoming haven after a day of exploration. It has an extremely convenient location: right near JR Wakayama Station, only 2 minutes away by foot! Plus, free bikes for use by guests where you can cycle through the town freely.

Candeo Hotels Nankai Wakayama

Hot Spring Bath from Candeo Hotels Nankai Wakayama

High-Range: Candeo Hotels Nankai Wakayama is conveniently located, literally above Nankai Wakayama-shi train station, making it one of the best luxury Wakayama hotels for easy access.

The hotel offers modern and sophisticated rooms with all the amenities you need. Spotless and clean. The view from the sky spa is very pretty. It has both indoor and outdoor baths with great views. 

Check from rooms availability at Candeo Hotels Nankai Wakayama.

Daiwa Roynet Hotel Wakayama Castle

Where to Stay in Wakayama - Daiwa Roynet Hotel Wakayama

High-Mid Range: Daiwa Roynet Hotel Wakayama Castle is a great 4-star hotel situated only 1 minute away from Wakayama Castle. It offers modern and sophisticated rooms with the best view of the city. The castle park is just right across the street, and there are a number of restaurants nearby to choose from.

The hotel is about a 25-minute walk from Wakayama Train Station but frequent buses stop in front of the castle which is just opposite the hotel. Rooms are spacious and have all the amenities you need. Everything you need for a pleasant stay.

Marina City Hotel

Best Hotel - Wakayama Marina City Hotel

High-Range: Located within the Wakayama Marina City complex surrounded by the ocean, the Wakayama Marina City Hotel is a resort-style accommodation with chic European designs. Rooms are comfortable and have an excellent view of the yacht harbor. It is also colorful, chic and provides excellent service!

The Porto Europa theme park is a 3-minute walk away, and Kuroshio Fish Market is a 10-minute walk from the property. The free onsen ticket is also provided with a few minutes walk from the hotel. A great place for a holiday gateway.

Manpa Resort

Room View Manpa Resort

High-Range: Manpa Resort – If you really want to feel a true Japanese experience, check out this hot spring resort with an insane sea view. Your stay is included with access to the natural hot spring onsens that overlook the bay.

The accommodation is slightly far from the town and best for self-drive travelers. Manpa Resort also offers a shuttle service to the nearest JR Station to make it easy to get to your next destination in Japan. There’s not much more we could ask for!

Kyukamura Kishu-Kada

Hot Spring Bath from Kyukamura Kishu-Kada

High-Range: Kyukamura Kishu-Kada – this traditional Japanese resort is a great option if you want to experience a traditional Japanese stay. It is located within a national park in the far west of the prefecture. It is from the main touristy parts of Wakayama, so you get to enjoy a more quiet and tranquil atmosphere.

The property offers comfortable rooms with magnificent sea views, plus the seamless Onsen. We also recommended opting for the half-board meal plan with various food options.

Overall: Best Hotel to Stay in Wakayama

All in all, we hope that this accommodation guide post is useful in finding the best places to live in Wakayama. Regardless of where you choose to stay in Wakayama, I am pretty sure you will enjoy your stay. The city is not as bustling as Osaka, but it also does not have the traditional charm that Kyoto has. Enjoy your stay in Wakayama!

Related Read: Wakayama Itinerary: A Travel Guide Blog

Traveling to the Wakayama Prefecture and nearby? Free feel to continue to check out our travel stories to some other interesting places:

Wakayama Itinerary - A Travel Guide Blog

Wakayama Itinerary: A Travel Guide Blog

posted in: Kansai Wide Japan | 0

Last updated on January 11th, 2025

Wakayama City offers the visitor a gateway to Japan’s rural countryside. It is about 1 hour by train from Osaka and 1.5 hours from Kyoto, making a great day trip to Wakayama city by train. This is our Wakayama itinerary about how you can spend a wonderful day in Wakayama City!

If you’re seeking off-the-beaten-path destinations near Osaka or Kyoto, Wakayama City might just be perfect for you. It is one of Japan’s lesser-known cities that’s located on the Kii Peninsula in the Kansai Region of Japan. It’s not a very touristy city, so it’s a great place to get off the tourist trail in Japan.

Wakayama City (和歌山市) is the capital city of the Wakayama Prefecture in Japan.

When visiting Wakayama City, there are tons of cultural experiences, divine foodie spots, and far fewer crowds. We spent only one day in Wakayama City and were unable to visit all of the attractions. Still, we absolutely loved our time here and really wish we could have had even more. That’s why we’ve decided to write this Wakayama itinerary so that hopefully you can get some inspiration for an upcoming visit.

In this Wakayama travel guide, we’ll go through why you should visit Wakayama, how to get there, where to stay, and how to spend your time discovering this interesting place in Japan. Let’s dive in.

How To Get To Wakayama City

I’d say it is pretty easy to get to Wakayama City given its proximity to other major cities in the region.

From Kansai International Airport (KIX) to Wakayama City:

The closest airport to Wakayama City is Kansai International Airport (KIX). If you arrive at Kansai airport, it takes about 40 minutes to train to reach Wakayama City.

From Osaka to Wakayama:

It’s easy to get to Wakayama if you come from Osaka. There are a number of lines that can get you there, but the most recommended and fastest route to take is the JR Limited Express Kuroshio from JR Shin-Osaka Station to JR Wakayama Station. It’ll take about 1 hour to get there. Noted that seat reservation is required for JR Limited Express Kuroshio.

Besides, many transport passes can be used on the JR Limited Express train between Osaka and Wakayama. Here are the lists of transportation passes:

Planning to visit Wakayama? Read on our Wakayama Checklist Guide for all the essentials:

1. How To Get to Wakayama
– Self-Driving: Find the best prices on RentalCars from Booking.com.
– Save on transportation: JR West Kansai Wide Area Pass [Get from Klook] , [Get from KKday]
2. Accommodation at Wakayama – read more Where To Stay In Wakayama.
– Nearby Station: Hotel Granvia Wakayama [High-Range], Wakayama Urban Hotel [Mid-Range]
– Japanese Onsen Resort: Manpa Resort and Kyukamura Kishu-Kada
3. What To Do: Ride the Theme Electric Train, Wakayama Castle, Kuroshio Market.

Getting Around in Wakayama City

Getting Around in Wakayama by Train

Although Wakayama City does not have a subway system, getting around the city is easier when you reach town. There are a few transportation options for getting around in Wakayama City.

By Train: Depending on where you want to go, the JR line, and the Nankai line are the main train lines you can take while visiting Wakayama. Plus, riding the Theme Electric Train is one of the experiences you can’t miss during your trip to Wakayama.

By Bus: While most of the attractions are spread out, getting around in Wakayama City by bus is a good transportation option. Grab a bus route map or use the Public Transit option to figure out which bus to take. If you have a Kansai Thru Pass you can use it on the city buses. Otherwise, use the IC Card to ease the get-in and get-off from the public transport.

By Rental Car: Renting a car and visiting Wakayama prefecture is a great travel option. You can drive through the coast bay along the Kii Penisula to Shirahama, Nachikatsuura, and more. We used and highly recommend Rental Cars.com for all our car rental bookings.

By Bike: Although I didn’t try it, you can get around Wakayama City by bike. You can rent a bike at Wakayama Station and many hotels also offer free bikes when you stay there.

Walking: Walking is the best way to see most attractions in the city. But some of the attractions are still required to travel by bus, car, or train.

How Many Days For Wakayama City

Wakayama City is actually only a short distance with about 1 hour train ride journey from Osaka. So planning a Wakayama day trip from Osaka is also doable. It will be a longer day with a rather early start. Still, we highly recommend spending at least one to two days in Wakayama because there are so many things to do in this area.

Where To Stay

Depending on your Wakayama itinerary, you’ll either continue to your next destination at the end of the day or spend the night in Wakayama City. You can choose to stay at a hotel close to Wakayama Station or spend one night at an onsen resort to enjoy the natural hot spring bath.

Here is our recommendation for where to stay in Wakayama City:

Wakayama Urban Hotel: For a convenient stay, check out this mid-budget hotel with great reviews. It has an extremely convenient location which is right near Wakayama Station, only 3 minutes away by foot. You can rent bikes for free to explore the city.

Dormy Inn Premium Wakayama Hot Spring is conveniently located within a 7-minute walk from Wakayama Station. It is a great Japan hotel chain that offers accommodation with hot spring facilities for guests. Complimentary supper soba noodles are included in the late evening.

Manpa Resort: If you really want to feel a true Japanese experience, check out this hot spring resort with an insane sea view. Your stay is included with access to the natural hot spring onsens that overlook the bay. The accommodation is slightly far from the town and best for self-drive travelers.

For more accommodation options, feel free to read more on: Where To Stay in Wakayama.

Planning For Wakayama Itinerary

Wakayama Prefecture is a large area that encompasses a number of cities and towns in an area. My trip to Wakayama City started from Osaka and the visit continued to Kii Katsuura to Shirahama. Here are some of the best things to do in Wakayama City to plan for your visit.

What To Do for Wakayama Itinerary:

  • Ride the Theme Electric Train
  • Meet Tama the Station Master
  • Wakayama Marina City
  • Kuroshio Market
  • Porto Europa
  • Wakayama Castle
  • Momijidani Garden

Wakayama Travel Guide Tip: Most of the attractions are spread out so it’s best to allocate more time when planning on the Wakayama itinerary.

Ride the Theme Electric Train

Wakayama itinerary - Ride the Theme Electric Train

For cats or railways lovers, don’t miss the chance to ride the Wakayama Electric Railway (和歌山電鉄, Wakayama Dentetsu).

The Kishigawa Line with electric railway runs through a rural area on a changing schedule with four unique themed trains (‘Strawberry’, ‘Plum’, ‘Toys’ and ‘Tama’). As the name, each of them has a different theme and decor. All are very cute, but the most popular is with the Tama – the Cat train.

Tama Train or Tama Densha

The Tama Train or Tama Densha (たま電車) is a dream ride for cat lovers everywhere. The train was decked in adorable cat-inspired decor. It also houses 101 unique illustrations of Tama the Station Master which spread throughout the cabin walls. It made the train ride fun and interesting.

Inside Tama Desha

We recommended getting a day pass at the station at ¥800 for an unlimited ride on the train if you are doing a return trip from Wakayama to Kishi station. The JR Kansai Wide Area Pass is covered for this route.

With a day pass, visitors have the opportunity to get on and off along the 14.3km line connected to several sites to try all the 4-themed trains. On the day we visited, we had the opportunity to ride on the Tama Desha with interesting interior design with cat.

The train ride itself is very fun though, well worth a look if you are in Wakayama.

Wakayama Travel Guide Tip: Do check the train schedule here for which train you want if you wish to ride on a designated train.

Meet Tama the Station Master

Meet Tama the Station Master at Kishi Station

The Wakayama Dentetsu train line runs through a rural area and makes a nice escape from the urban attractions. There are several sites you can visit along the route but the most popular is the Kishi Station – the terminus station where the Tama Cat Museum and Cafe is.

Tama is the official Train Station Master. It has brought several million dollars to the area and probably saved the railroad from abandonment over the last decade. Sadly, the original Tama passed on in Jun 2015. Nitama (Tama II) has taken over as station master of Kishi station.

Similarly, if you are on the lookout for Nitama, pls also check her schedule. She gets 2 days off a week.

Kishi Station

The main attraction at Kishi Station where the entire station is dedicated to this calico cat. The station has an interesting cat design and was rebuilt to resemble the face of a cat with pointy ears.

Inside the station, there is a gift shop with Tama merchandise to bring some goodies back home. You can also have a cup of coffee at the themed cafe which serves a limited menu.

Wakayama Marina City

Wakayama Marina City

Located in the southern of Wakayama City, Marina City is a resort town with chic European designs built on an artificial island. This resort complex faces the beautiful Wakaura Bay and is slightly far from the city. You’ll need to travel about 40 minutes by bus to reach.

Here, you’ll find Porto Europa, Kuroshio Market, and a series of hotels, souvenir shops, and restaurants. Spend some time wandering around and grab some seafood lunch.

Getting there: Ride the Wakayama Bus from JR Wakayama Station and get off at “Hotel-mae”. The bus journey takes about 25 minutes. Note that the bus has very limited timings so make sure you check the timings beforehand!

Kuroshio Market

Kushiro Market

Once arrived in Wakayama Marina City, first headed to Kuroshio Market to grab some lunch. The local market is not huge with several stalls offering different types of seafood, as well as pickled vegetables, freshly prepared fish, and local products.

There is plenty of choice and several eating areas inside and outside. You can also pick out some seafood skewers and grill in the public seating area.

Wakayama Travel Guide - Enjoy seafood at Kushiro Market

The main highlight is the tuna cutting demonstration, where a skilled guy showcases the different parts of the tuna while cutting it up. Although in Japanese, it was nevertheless entertaining and educational. Three tuna-cutting shows happen each day, at 11:00, 12:30, and 15:00 daily.

Take the opportunity to witness the tuna-cutting show if your timing is right.

Kuroshio Ichiba Market (黒潮市場)
Address: 1527 Kemi, Wakayama City, Wakayama
Business Hours: Daily from 10:00 to 17:00
Entrance Fee: FREE!

Porto Europa

Wakayama itinerary - Porto Europa

Next, head to Porto Europa which is located just a few steps from Kuroshio Market.

Porto Europa is a beautiful amusement park and consists of a collection of European buildings. There are various rides such as the roller coaster and the Ferris wheel to let your inner child out.

Porto Europa

Unlike many other amusement parks, entrance to the Porto Europa is free and you need to pay for rides. There is also a pass to enjoy unlimited rides or games. You can walk around it in a few minutes, taking photos, exploring the shops, and playing arcade games.

Porto Europa - European Themed Amusement Park

Worth a visit for a few hours when visiting Wakayama City.

Porto Europa
Address: 1527 Kemi, Wakayama City, Wakayama
Opening Hours: Daily from 10:00 to 17:00
Entrance Fee: FREE!

Wakayama Castle

Wakayama Castle

Wakayama Castle (和歌山城, Wakayama-jō) is the symbol of the city. Like most castles in Japan, Wakayama Castle to destroyed by fire during WWII and it was rebuilt and restored to its original state in 1958. This historical site now houses a number of exhibitions inside the castle and some other attractions within its grounds including the Momijidani Garden and the Ohashirouka Bridge.

Wakayama Castle was built at the peak of Mt. Torafusu. Enter through the main entrance, Otemon Gate to visit the castle to start exploring the castle grounds. There are several routes to get into the castle tower but not very steep.

Exhibitions inside the Wakayama castle

Once inside the castle tower, there are historical documents and treasures on display such as samurai armor suits, weapons, and many historic relics from the Edo period. Don’t forget to climb up to the observation deck to enjoy a panoramic view of Wakayama City.

Wakayama City Arial view

The castle is not so impressive compared to other Japanese castles. Not so crowded, but lots of photographers around. We recommend visiting Wakayama Castle if you have extra time on your Wakayama itinerary.

Wakayama Castle
Address: 3 Ichibancho, Wakayama, 640-8146, Japan
Opening Hours: Daily from 9:00 to 17:30
Admission Fee: ¥410 for adults, ¥200 for children (Get discount by using Nankai Rail Pass)

Getting there: Board the city bus and drop off at the “Koenmae” bus stop. Alternatively, walk for 20 minutes from Wakayama Station to Wakayama Castle.

Momijidani Garden

Stunning Wakayama Castle with Ohashi Roka Bridge

Don’t forget to explore the surroundings after visiting Wakayama Castle.

The Nishinomaru Garden (also known as Momijidani Garden) is a beautiful traditional Japanese garden with a pond, a waterfall, with a tea room. The Momijidani Garde is famous for sakura viewing and autumn leaves.

Ohashi Roka Bridge

One of the highlights is the Ohashi Roka Bridge. It is a covered inclined bridge with a significant pitch of 11 degrees with steps inside to prevent slipping. You will need to remove your shoes when walking through. It is a splendid experience walking through the Ohashi Rouka Bridge. It is open to the public and free of charge.

From inside Wakayama Castle Park, you can easily view the bridge in front of a stunning view of Wakayama Castle.

More Time for Wakayama Itinerary?

There are still some attractions in the city for Wakayama itinerary. Feel free to include it onto your visit if you are spending more than 1 day in Wakayama City.

Kimii-dera Temple is home to one of the most important temples in the city. The temple has an 11-meter tall golden Buddha statue and offers a great city view from above.

Tamatsushima Jinja is a shrine dedicated to the three Waka poetry gods and is often featured in poems and other written works. Magnificent view at the top when visiting the shrine.

Some other cultural places to visit include Kishu Toshogu Shrine and Tamatsushima-jinja Shrine.

Overall: A Visit To Wakayama City

Thank you for reading this Wakayama itinerary post. We do hope this Wakayama travel guide blog is helpful in planning a trip to this charming city. Although Wakayama City is not a major tourist place, it is worth stopping by if you would like to explore the off-the-beaten-path attractions.

In short, we truly enjoyed our time exploring the cityy, eating seafood, and relaxing. We can’t wait to go back to Wakayama and see more and explore places beyond the city.

Related Read: Where To Stay in Wakayama: Best Hotels and Ryokans

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