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Shirahama Sakinoyu Onsen

Shirahama (白浜, [1]) is located on the western coast of Wakayama prefecture, Japan. It is best known for its beautiful white beach and hot springs. The main shirahama beach is lined with hotels like a mini Waikiki. The hotels were built in the 1960s, 70s and 80s and are very nostalgic looking. During the summer, there are fireworks every night on the beach.

[edit] Get in

The easiest way to get to Nanki Shirahama is by air or by train to avoid the traffic jams on the country roads leading into Tanabe City and Shirahama. An express way connecting the city to Osaka now almost reaches Shirahama. Though it eases the car circulation, being only two lanes, it can still produce long lines of cars in peak Summer times.

[edit] Get around

[edit][add listing] See

• 三段壁 (Sandanbeki, 3 Step Cliff) A beautiful view from cliffs on the ocean edge that are 50 meters high. There is also a guided tour into to the caverns inside the cliffs. It is said that pirates (kumano suigun)used to inhabit the caverns and the remains of their dwellings can be seen. A good tour for young children and dads trying to avoid shopping. Admission charged.

• 千畳敷 (Senjojiki) A beautiful rocky point near Shirahama beach. The view is best late in the afternoon. Admission is free.

• Kishu Museum [2]- A small but interesting museum housing Ukiyo-e prints of all "Thirty-six Views of Mount Fuji" by Andō Hiroshige among some quality pottery and screens.

• Engetsu Island - A small island in Shirahama bay (20 minutes walk from the mean beach to get in front of it). A rock formation with a hole in the middle allows in some days to see the Sun set through it. An enjoyable view and stroll in any (not too hot or humid) day.

• Kumano Kodo (old road)

[edit][add listing] Do

Shirahama Sakinoyu Onsen (白浜崎の湯温泉),

This spectacular hot spring is celebrated as one of Japan's Top 3 hot springs and cited in old texts. As it lays just at the waterfront bigger waves from ocean cool down the pool's hot water and splash the bathers which adds to the fun and pleasure. Adult admission ¥300, open 8 AM to 7 PM daily in Summer (10 AM - 3 PM in Winter).

[edit][add listing] Buy

[edit][add listing] Eat

[edit][add listing] Drink

[edit][add listing] Sleep

• Hotel Koganoi (Ryokan) - Tel. (0739)42-2922 - Room Rate ¥20,000~
• Koganoi Bay Hotel (Hotel) - Tel. (0739)43-6000 - Room Rate ¥22,000~
• Shiraraso Grand Hotel (Ryokan) - Tel. (0739)43-0100 - Room Rate ¥20,000
• Miyukien (Ryokan) - Tel. (0739)42-2708 - Room Rate ¥15,000
• Hotel Senjo (Ryokan) - Tel. (0739)42-3470 - Room Rate ¥16,000~
• Minshuku A Course (Minshuku) - Tel. (0739)42-3680 - Room Rate ¥10,000~
• Minshuku Katsuya (Minshuku) - Tel. (0739)42-3814 - Room Rate ¥7,000
• Shirara (People's Lodge) - Tel. (0739)42-3655 - Room Rate ¥7,920
• Hotel Shirahama (People's Lodge) - Tel. (0739)42-3039 - Room Rate ¥6,870
• Taiya (People's Lodge) - Tel. (0739)42-3328 - Room Rate ¥7,000

In the summer time it is very crowded so reservations are advised. There are also reservation centers that can help find accommodation at the last minute, but do not expect much.

[edit] Get out

Wakayama ←

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→ Kushimoto → Tsu