Introduction to Instagram-Worthy Photos in Wakayama Prefecture
The Kumano Sanzan, consisting of Kumano Hongu Taisha, Kumano Hayatama Taisha, and Kumano Nachi Taisha, along with Seiganto-ji Temple, are connected by the pilgrimage route known as the Kumano Kodo. Notably, Nachi Falls has received high praise both domestically and internationally.
Kumano Hongu Taisha
Kumano Hongu Taisha is one of the three main shrines of Kumano and was considered the central shrine of the Kumano deities. The shrine buildings are made of white wood with cypress bark roofs and have a particularly calm atmosphere among the Kumano Sanzan.
Instagram Worthiness:★★★★★
Photography Opportunity: All seasons
Location Information: ▶Map, Hours, Routes
Transportation Information: 2-hour bus ride from Kii-Tanabe Station
Kumano Hayatama Taisha
The deities of Kumano Hayatama Taisha are the powerful and radiant spirit Hayatama no Okami and his wife Fusumi no Okami, also known as the god of matchmaking.
Instagram Worthiness:★★★★★
Photography Opportunity: All seasons
Location Information: ▶Map, Hours, Routes
Transportation Information: 17-minute walk from Shingu Station
Kumano Nachi Taisha
Kumano Nachi Taisha, along with Kumano Hayatama Taisha and Kumano Hongu Taisha, is one of the three main shrines of Kumano and has been a place of worship for 1,700 years. The shrine buildings are located at an altitude of about 500 meters, and after climbing 463 stone steps, there are six buildings enshrining Fusumi no Okami. Nearby, Nachi Falls boasts the highest drop in Japan at 133 meters.
Instagram Worthiness:★★★★★
Photography Opportunity: All seasons
Location Information: ▶Map, Hours, Routes
Transportation Information: 26-minute walk from Kii-Katsuura Station
Kongobu-ji Temple
Mount Koya is the headquarters of the Koyasan Shingon sect of Buddhism, founded by Kobo Daishi in the early Heian period. It features the largest stone garden in Japan, the “Banryu-tei,” among many other attractions. Walking through the spacious and elegant temple grounds, you can feel a sacred atmosphere.
Instagram Worthiness:★★★★★
Photography Opportunity: All seasons
Location Information: ▶Map, Hours, Routes
Transportation Information: 5-minute cable car ride from Gokurakubashi Station
Wakayama Castle
Wakayama Castle was initially constructed in 1585 by Toyotomi Hideyoshi’s brother, Hidenaga. Later, Tokugawa Yorinobu, the tenth son of Tokugawa Ieyasu, took over the castle, making it the castle of the Kishu Domain, which, along with the Mito and Owari domains, was one of the three Tokugawa houses, with a long and storied history.
Instagram Worthiness:★★★★★
Photography Opportunity: All seasons
Location Information: ▶Map, Hours, Routes
Transportation Information: 6-minute bus ride from Wakayama Station
