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There are great many things to do in Japan, and so are in Kainan.
Nestled in the heart of Japan, Kainan is a hidden gem waiting to be discovered.
With its tranquil surroundings, rich cultural heritage, and delectable cuisine, Kainan is a paradise for those seeking respite from the hustle and bustle of city life.
So come, immerse yourself in the spirit of Kainan, and experience a world beyond your wildest dreams.
Without further ado listed below are some of the most fun things to do in Kainan:
1. Shichikencho Shopping Street
Shichikencho Shopping Street is a local shopping street in Kainan city, Wakayama prefecture, Japan.
What to see or do: This street has a variety of shops selling traditional Japanese goods, clothing, and local specialty foods. Visitors can experience the warmth of the local community while wandering around the street.
Don’t miss: Be sure to try some of the popular local snacks such as “Kakinoha sushi” and “Kawahagi no Shirako Ponzu” while strolling around the shops.
Insider travel tips: The best time to visit the shopping street is during the Kainan Danjiri festival which is held every year in October.
The festival offers traditional music and dance performances as well as the thrilling “Danjiri” parade.
2. Sano Art Museum
The Sano Art Museum is a hidden gem located in Kainan, Japan that features a wide range of Japanese and Western art.
What to see or do: Visitors can admire more than 3,000 pieces of artwork ranging from ancient pottery to modern paintings.
Don’t miss the museum’s incredible collection of works by Japanese artists such as Hokusai, Harunobu, and Hiroshige, as well as the European paintings from the 19th and 20th centuries.
Don’t miss: The highlight of the museum is the stunning gardens surrounding the building, which were designed by renowned landscape architect Shigemori Mirei.
Insider travel tips: The museum can be accessed by bus from Kainan Station, and admission is free on the first Sunday of every month.
For a unique experience, visit during the autumn months when the fall foliage adds a beautiful splash of color to the gardens.
3. O-mizo Temple
O-mizo Temple is a historic Buddhist temple located in Kainan, a city in the Wakayama Prefecture of Japan. The temple is known for its beautiful architecture, serene atmosphere, and rich cultural heritage.
What to see or do: Visitors can explore the temple grounds and admire the intricately designed buildings. The main hall, in particular, is a must-see, featuring stunning decorative elements such as carvings, paintings, and sculptures.
The temple also has several beautiful gardens that are perfect for a relaxing stroll.
Don’t miss: Make sure to check out the five-story pagoda, which is one of the tallest Buddhist towers in the Kansai region. The pagoda is an impressive sight to behold, especially when it is lit up at night.
Insider travel tips: It is recommended to visit the temple in the early morning or late afternoon when there are fewer crowds. Additionally, plan to visit the nearby Harimoto Fruit Farm, which offers delicious seasonal fruit picking experiences.
4. Awashima Shrine
Awashima Shrine is a Shinto shrine located on a small island off the coast of Kainan, Japan.
What to see or do: Visitors can take a short ferry ride to the island to see the picturesque shrine, stroll through the beautiful gardens, and enjoy the peaceful atmosphere.
Don’t miss: Be sure to check out the giant torii gate that stands at the entrance to the shrine, as well as the impressive collection of stone lanterns throughout the grounds.
Insider travel tips: Visit during the annual Awashima Great Festival held in July, when locals gather to celebrate with traditional dances, fireworks, and boat races.
Also, don’t forget to try the delicious local seafood dishes, particularly the famous Kainan Anago (conger eel).
5. Aikawa Folk Museum
The Aikawa Folk Museum is a traditional Japanese house turned into a museum, offering visitors a glimpse into the life and culture of Japanese peasants during the Meiji and Taisho periods.
What to see or do: Visitors can explore the rooms and admire the intricate details of the traditional architecture. The museum also houses a vast collection of tools, clothing, furniture, and household items from rural Japan.
Don’t miss: Be sure to check out the exhibit showcasing the kimono collection of the Aikawa family, which includes over 600 pieces.
Insider travel tips: – Wear comfortable shoes as the floors are made of unpainted wooden planks.
6. Nankai Koya Line Memorial Museum
The Nankai Koya Line Memorial Museum is a railway museum located in Kainan, Japan, which pays tribute to the Nankai Electric Railway’s Koya Line.
What to see or do: The museum offers visitors an opportunity to experience and understand the history and development of the Koya Line, which has been an integral part of the region’s transportation infrastructure since its founding in 1925.
The museum’s exhibits include historical photographs, documents, models, and interactive displays that showcase the railroad’s impact on the region and its people.
Don’t miss: Visitors should not miss the opportunity to take a ride on a steam locomotive, or explore the museum’s collection of vintage trains and other railway artifacts.
The outdoor exhibit space also features a replica of the original Konya Station, which was destroyed in a fire in 1949.
Insider travel tips: Consider taking a guided tour to gain a deeper understanding of the museum’s exhibits and historical significance.
The museum is also conveniently located near other nearby attractions, including the historic Kumano Kodo pilgrimage route and the Koyasan Buddhist temple complex.
7. Kushimoto Marine Park
Kushimoto Marine Park is a must-visit destination located in Kainan, Japan. It is a marine park where you can enjoy various types of marine creatures and activities.
What to see or do: You can explore the park and enjoy seeing different varieties of marine creatures such as dolphins, killer whales, seals, and penguins.
One of the main attractions of this park is the dolphin and whale show, which is a spectacular sight to watch.
Apart from this, you can also experience snorkeling and explore the underwater world.
Don’t miss: Don’t miss the dolphin and whale show, where the marine creatures perform spectacular stunts and showcase their intelligence.
Also, if you are a fan of marine life, don’t miss visiting the underwater tunnel where you can see various species of fish swimming right above your head.
Insider travel tips: – You are not allowed to carry food and drink inside the park.
8. Tomogashima Island
An uninhabited island located off the coast of Wakayama prefecture in Japan.
What to see or do: Explore the well-preserved ruins of military fortifications dating back to the late 1800s. Hike through forests and scenic trails to reach stunning viewpoints overlooking the sea.
Visit the lighthouse, which offers breathtaking panoramic views of the surroundings. Enjoy swimming or snorkeling in the crystal-clear waters surrounding the island.
Don’t miss: The abandoned hospital, which provides a haunting glimpse into the island’s past. The massive guns and artillery batteries, which serve as a reminder of the island’s strategic importance in Japan’s military history.
Insider travel tips: Bring enough food and water as there are no shops or restaurants on the island. Wear comfortable shoes and clothing for hiking and exploring the ruins.
Take a boat tour around the island to see it from different perspectives. Check the weather forecast before visiting as the island can be closed during strong winds and rough seas.
9. Inunakiyama Onsen
A traditional hot spring resort nestled in the mountains of Kainan, Japan.
What to see or do: Relax in the hot springs while enjoying the lush greenery and serene atmosphere of the surrounding forest. Take a stroll along the river or hike to the nearby waterfall.
Don’t miss: The opportunity to try the local cuisine, including fresh seafood and katsu-don (a popular Japanese dish consisting of fried pork cutlet and egg over rice).
Insider travel tips: Consider visiting during the autumn season to see the stunning fall foliage. Also, be sure to check out the small local breweries in the area for some unique and delicious Japanese sake.
10. Kashinozaki Lighthouse
Kashinozaki Lighthouse is a historic lighthouse located in Kainan, Japan.
What to see or do: Visitors can take a tour of the lighthouse and climb to the top for stunning views of the coastline. The surrounding park is also a popular spot for picnics and a relaxing stroll.
Don’t miss: Be sure to catch the sunset from the top of the lighthouse for a breathtaking experience.
Insider travel tips: Early mornings are a great time to visit to avoid crowds and enjoy the serene surroundings. Don’t forget to bring your camera to capture the picturesque views from the top.
11. Wakayama Castle
A historic Japanese castle located in the city of Kainan.
What to see or do: Explore the castle grounds and take in the beautiful panoramic view of the city from the main tower. Marvel at the impressive architecture and design, which reflect the castle’s rich history and cultural significance.
Don’t miss: The museum inside the castle, which features a collection of artifacts and exhibits related to the castle’s history and the feudal era of Japan.
Insider travel tips: Wear comfortable shoes as the streets leading up to the castle can be steep and hilly. Visit during the spring season to see the cherry blossom trees in full bloom around the castle grounds.
12. Kamikura Shrine
Kamikura Shrine is a Shinto shrine located in Kainan, Wakayama Prefecture, Japan. It is situated on a cliff that overlooks the Pacific Ocean, providing breathtaking views.
What to see or do: Visitors can take in the beautiful scenery, watch the crashing waves and enjoy the peaceful atmosphere of the shrine. The main building of the shrine, Honden, is built into the rock of the mountain.
There is also a small cave, considered sacred, that is located near the shrine.
Don’t miss: Don’t miss the opportunity to take a hike up to the shrine. It is a bit of a climb, but the views along the way are worth it.
Another highlight is the view of the Engetsu Island from the shrine.
Insider travel tips: – It is recommended to visit early in the morning to avoid crowds and to enjoy a peaceful and serene experience.
13. Kuroshio Ichiba Market
Kuroshio Ichiba Market is a popular seafood market located in Kainan, Japan.
What to see or do: Visitors can explore the vast array of fresh seafood, from tuna and octopus to shrimp and scallops, and even exotic options like sea urchin and whale meat.
Don’t miss: The market’s famous tuna auction, where customers can bid on freshly caught bluefin tuna.
Insider travel tips: Be sure to arrive early in the morning to catch the tuna auction and avoid the crowds. Also, try the local specialty, “tai-meshi,” a dish of fresh sea bream over rice.