Wakayama Prefecture

Wakayama Prefecture's Absolute Essentials

Wakayama Prefecture serves as the spiritual center of Japan, anchored by the UNESCO-recognized Mount Koya and the Kumano Kodo pilgrimage routes. This collection features Kongobu-ji, the head temple of Shingon Buddhism, and Okunoin, the nation's largest cemetery. Natural and architectural landmarks include the 133-meter Nachi Falls, the red-lacquered pagodas of Seiganto-ji, and the ancient Niutsuhime-jinja Shrine. The list is rounded out by the historic Jison-in temple, a traditional gateway for female pilgrims, and the prominent hilltop fortifications of Wakayama Castle.

Wakayama Prefecture's Absolute Essentials — Map

663highland / CC BY 2.5

A

Kongobu-ji

Kongōbu-ji is the ecclesiastic head temple of Kōyasan Shingon Buddhism, located on Mount Kōya, Wakayama Prefecture, Japan.

Daderot / CC BY-SA 3.0

B

Okunoin

One of the most popular cemeteries in the country, Okunoin is a tranquil place with both sacred and slightly mysterious atmosphere.

663highland / CC BY 2.5

C

Seiganto-ji

Seiganto-ji, Temple of Crossing the Blue Shore, is a Tendai Buddhist temple in Wakayama Prefecture, Japan.

Kansai explorer / CC BY 3.0

D

Nachi Falls

Nachi Falls in Nachikatsuura, Wakayama Prefecture, Japan, is one of the best-known waterfalls in Japan.

Saigen Jiro / CC0

E

Niutsuhime-jinja Shrine

Supposedly founded before the 9th century, this UNESCO site is one of the oldest shrines in the region.

663highland / CC BY 2.5

F

Kumano Hayatama Taisha Shrine

Kumano Hayatama Taisha is a Shinto shrine located in Shingu, Wakayama Prefecture, on the shores of the Kumanogawa in the Kii Peninsula of…

KENPEI / CC-BY-SA-3.0

G

Jison-in

Though this temple may look quite ordinary, be sure it is one of the most unusual places of worship you can visit in Japan.

Oilstreet / CC BY-SA 3.0

H

Wakayama Castle

Wakayama Castle is a Japanese castle located in the city Wakayama, Wakayama Prefecture, Japan.

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