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There are great many things to do in Japan, and so are in Katsuura.
Nestled between the rugged cliffs of the Pacific coast and the serene waters of Katsuura Bay, lies a hidden gem that beckons visitors to discover its beauty and charm.
With nature as its canvas, Katsuura boasts a range of activities that cater to the adventurous, the curious, and the contemplative.
From exploring untouched beaches to savouring the freshest seafood, Katsuura offers a rare opportunity to slow down and immerse oneself in the unspoiled beauty of Japan’s countryside.
Without further ado listed below are some of the most fun things to do in Katsuura:
1. Katsuura Underwater Observation Tower
A tower built for underwater observation of marine life in Katsuura, Japan.
What to see or do: Enjoy the panoramic view of the Pacific Ocean from the top and head down to the underwater observatory to spot various marine species like sea turtles, dolphins, whales, and colorful schools of fish.
Don’t miss: The sunset view from the observation tower during the summer months is spectacular.
Insider travel tips: – Visit during the winter months to witness the migration of humpback whales.
2. Katsuura Big Suspension Bridge
Katsuura Big Suspension Bridge is a pedestrian bridge that stretches over Katsuura Bay in Chiba Prefecture, Japan.
What to see or do: Visitors can walk across the bridge and enjoy breathtaking views of the bay and surrounding scenery. The bridge is especially beautiful during sunset and at night when it is illuminated.
Don’t miss: Be sure to snap some photos of the incredible views and unique design of the bridge, which measures 360 meters in length and is the longest pedestrian-only suspension bridge in Japan.
Insider travel tips: If you’re afraid of heights, this bridge may not be the best choice for you as it can sway in the wind.
However, if you’re up for the challenge, the experience of walking across the bridge is unforgettable. There are also nearby hot springs and scenic coastal areas to visit in the area.
3. Katsuura Gyokusen-ji Temple
Katsuura Gyokusen-ji Temple is a historic Buddhist temple located in Katsuura, Chiba Prefecture, Japan.
What to see or do: Visit the stunning main hall which is a designated Important Cultural Property of Japan. Admire the architecture and design of the building that dates back to the Kamakura period.
Explore the lush garden that features a pond and a waterfall.
Don’t miss: The temple’s amazing camellia tree, Jindaizakura, which is over 800 years old and has been designated as a Natural Monument of Japan.
Also, don’t miss the temple’s shop where you can buy local souvenirs and specialty products.
Insider travel tips: Be sure to visit in early February for the temple’s annual Camellia Festival. The festival features approximately 10,000 camellias of over 500 varieties.
Also, check out the nearby Katsuura hot springs to relax after your temple visit.
4. Lighthouse Observatory
The Lighthouse Observatory is an observation deck located on top of Katsuura Lighthouse, in Katsuura City, Japan.
What to see or do: Visitors can enjoy the stunning aerial views of the city and shimmering waters of the Pacific Ocean.
The observatory is perfect for photography enthusiasts to capture memorable shots of the coastal landscape, fishing boats, and the surrounding mountains.
Don’t miss: Don’t miss the panoramic view of the sunrise or sunset from the observatory, which is truly a breathtaking experience.
Insider travel tips: – Reach the observatory by climbing 193 steps inside the lighthouse. Visitors with mobility issues can opt for binoculars to enjoy the views from the ground floor.
5. Katsuura Morning Market
Katsuura Morning Market is a traditional Japanese fish market in Katsuura, Japan.
What to see or do: Visitors can browse and purchase a variety of fresh seafood, including tuna, squid, and octopus. Some vendors also sell local produce and souvenirs.
Don’t miss: The tuna auction, where fresh tuna are sold to the highest bidder. It’s a thrilling sight to see the vendors bid on the fish and make deals.
Insider travel tips: Arrive early in the morning to experience the market at its liveliest. Wear comfortable shoes as the market can be crowded.
Don’t forget to try the delicious seafood breakfast at one of the market’s food stalls.
6. Katsuura Fisherman’s Wharf
A picturesque fishing port located in Katsuura, Japan, featuring seafood markets, restaurants, shops and boat cruises.
What to see or do: Explore the bustling seafood markets and indulge in freshly caught seafood delicacies.
Don’t miss: The Toretore market, which offers various kinds of fresh seafood and fun seafood-related activities.
Insider travel tips: Best time to visit is in the morning, when the freshest seafood is available.
7. Katsuura Imperial Villa
The Katsuura Imperial Villa is a luxurious retreat located in Kii Katsuura, Japan, that was once used by the Japanese royal family.
What to see or do: Visitors can admire the stunning architecture and beautiful gardens of the villa, which overlooks the Pacific Ocean. Inside, there are traditional Japanese tatami rooms, as well as Western-style rooms, all adorned with elegant furnishings and artwork.
Don’t miss: Be sure to take a stroll through the villa’s gardens and enjoy the sweeping views of the coastline. Also, don’t miss the chance to experience a traditional Japanese tea ceremony in one of the peaceful, tranquil tea rooms.
Insider travel tips: If you’re planning a visit, book your reservation in advance as the villa only allows a limited number of visitors per day.
Additionally, keep in mind that the villa is closed on Wednesdays and over the New Year holiday period.
8. Katsuura Eki-mae Market
Katsuura Eki-mae Market is a bustling seaside market located in Katsuura City in Japan.
What to see or do: There’s a lot to see and do at Katsuura Eki-mae Market, such as browsing over 50 different stores selling everything from fresh seafood to locally-made souvenirs.
You can also savor the delicious seafood dishes that are served at various restaurants in the market.
Don’t miss the famous tuna auctions that take place at 6am each morning, where the freshest fish are sold to the highest bidders.
Insider travel tips: – Arrive early for the tuna auctions, as they are a popular attraction and can get crowded.
9. Shirahama Ohama Beach
Shirahama Ohama Beach is a beautiful white sandy beach located in Katsuura on the east coast of Japan.
What to see or do: Visitors can enjoy swimming in the crystal clear waters or sunbathing on the soft sand. There are also various water sports and activities available, such as kayaking and paddleboarding.
Don’t miss: Make sure to catch the gorgeous sunrise in the morning and take a walk along the beach to discover the hidden coves and sea caves that are scattered along the coastline.
Insider travel tips: – Plan to arrive early to secure a good spot on the beach, as it can get quite crowded during peak season.
10. Katsuura Shrine
Katsuura Shrine is a Shinto shrine located in Nachikatsuura town in Wakayama Prefecture, Japan. It is one of the three Kumano shrines, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
What to see or do: Visitors can explore the complex of shrines, temples and gateways and experience the tranquility of Japanese nature and beauty of ancient Japanese architecture.
The main shrine building, known as Honmiya, is an important cultural treasure of Japan. The surrounding cedar trees create a mystical atmosphere around the shrine.
Don’t miss: The Katsuura Shrine hosts an annual Sunakake-Shinji Festival where locals throw sand at each other in a symbolic cleansing ritual.
It is held on the second Sunday in January each year and is definitely worth seeing if you are in the area.
Insider travel tips: It is recommended to visit the shrine early in the morning to avoid crowds. The shrine can be reached by bus from Kii-Katsuura station and the journey takes around 20 minutes.
Don’t forget to bring comfortable shoes for the hike up to the shrine.
11. Oyu no Hara Natural Hot Spring
Oyu no Hara is a picturesque natural hot spring located in Katsuura, a scenic beach town on the east coast of Japan.
What to see or do: The hot spring complex features several large outdoor baths with crystal-clear waters, surrounded by lush forests and mountains. Visitors can enjoy soaking in the hot water while taking in the stunning views of the surrounding nature.
The springs are rich in minerals and are said to have therapeutic properties, making it a popular destination for those seeking relaxation and healing.
Don’t miss: One of the most unique experiences at Oyu no Hara is taking a dip in the “Hinode no Yu” bath, which faces east towards the ocean, offering spectacular views of the sunrise.
Visitors can also visit the nearby waterfall or take a scenic walk through the forest.
Insider travel tips: – Make sure to bring your own towel and toiletries, as these are not provided at the hot spring.
12. Katsuura Tatsu-no-yu Onsen
Relaxing hot spring resort on the Pacific coast of Chiba prefecture in Japan.
What to see or do: Experience therapeutic hot springs to melt your stress away. Enjoy scenic views of the Pacific Ocean and lush greenery while soaking in the outdoor hot springs.
Try various types of indoor baths and saunas. Take a dip in the swimming pool or enjoy water therapy.
Don’t miss: The outdoor rotenburo overlooking the Pacific Ocean is a must-visit spot. Take a stroll in the picturesque Japanese-style garden.
You can also indulge in various spa treatments, including traditional Japanese massages, esthetic facial treatments, and more.
Insider travel tips: For a unique experience, book a private onsen, and soak in a hot spring bath with your loved ones. Don’t forget to try local delicacies, such as freshly caught seafood and Sake.
Stay overnight to fully unwind and enjoy all the resort has to offer.
13. Kii Nature Museum
Kii Nature Museum is a museum dedicated to showcasing the diverse flora and fauna found in the Kii Peninsula, located in Katsuura.
What to see or do: Visitors can explore the exhibits that feature interactive displays, dioramas, and live animals, including Japanese giant salamanders, sea turtles, and river otters.
The museum also has a beautiful butterfly garden, a library, and a café.
Don’t miss: The museum’s highlight is the enormous tank that houses various types of fish and the world’s largest lobster, weighing over 20 kilograms.
Make sure to also spend some time in the butterfly garden, which has over 1,500 free-flying butterflies and moths.
Insider travel tips: Plan to spend at least two hours exploring the museum and enjoy a cup of coffee at the café with a stunning view of the ocean.
14. Oyama Temple
A beautiful and historic Buddhist temple located in Katsuura, Japan.
What to see or do: Admire the striking architecture and lush surroundings of the temple, which is perched on a hill overlooking the sea.
Take in the peaceful atmosphere and tranquility of the temple grounds, which feature traditional Japanese gardens, ornate shrines, and stunning views of the surrounding countryside and coastline.
Don’t miss: The main hall of the temple, which houses a magnificent 11-faced Kannon statue and other intricate works of art and religious artifacts.
Also, be sure to check out the statues of the 500 Rakan, which are realistic depictions of the disciples of Buddha.
Insider travel tips: Wear comfortable shoes as there are a lot of stairs to climb to get to the temple.
Visit early in the day to avoid crowds and capture stunning photos of the temple and its surroundings in the morning light.
Don’t forget to sample some of the local seafood delicacies in Katsuura, which is known for its fresh catch and traditional fishing culture.
15. Nago Prefectural Natural Park
Nago Prefectural Natural Park is a stunning park located in Katsuura, Japan. It covers an area of over 3,700 hectares, offering a diverse range of landscapes, including hills, forests, rivers, and coastline.
What to see or do: Visitors can enjoy hiking through the park’s lush forests, where they can spot an array of wildlife, such as deer, boars, and monkeys.
The park is also home to many scenic spots, including the Akio Ohashi Bridge, which offers breathtaking views of the coastline, and the Nago Castle Ruins, which offer visitors a glimpse into local history.
Don’t miss: The park is home to an ancient Japanese Cedar tree that is over 800 years old, which is definitely worth a visit.
Also, be sure to check out the breathtaking waterfalls, such as Kumano-fudo Falls and Ryujin Falls.
Insider travel tips: The best time to visit the park is during the autumn months when the foliage turns into shades of red and orange, making for stunning photo opportunities.
Early morning or late afternoon is ideal for spotting wildlife. It is recommended to wear comfortable clothes and shoes suitable for hiking and to bring insect repellent.