Shirahama

Shirahama is a resort town in Wakayama prefecture on Japan’s southern coast, offering hot springs, quartz sand beaches, iconic natural formations, amusement parks, animal encounters and adventure galore. Famous natural rock formations include the arch on Engetsuto Island, the tatami-mat-like rock formation of Senjojiki, and the iconic Sandanbeki cliffs that line the rugged coast. Shirahama Beach provides strong waves that surfers love, a mellow vibe and great seafood restaurants lining the shore.

For family activities, the Adventure World amusement park has rides, a roller coaster, games, food and fun, as well as animal exhibits that kids will love, including the rare giant pandas. Another theme park with a science theme is Shirahama Energy Land, a place for rides, games and educational fun. The Safari World zoo allows you to get up close to exotic animals of many species. If you’re taking a couple’s holiday, the Saki-no-Yu Onsen Spa has open-air baths, hot springs and spectacularly romantic ocean views.

What to see & do in Shirahama

Where & what to eat in Shirahama

Shirahama food and dining involves a great deal of seafood and plenty of local delicacies that thrill foodies from all over the world. At the Tore Tore Ichiba Market, you’ll find prepared foods, souvenirs, unique sauces and fresh seafood and produce, among other delights, including local sake. Local restaurants incorporate locally sourced and seasonal ingredients. Casual Izakaya eateries offer tapas-style plates with drinks. Some popular options are Izakaya Uhachi and...

10 Great Restaurants in Shirahama
With fresh seafood from the Kii Peninsula, Kumano beef, and excellent vegetables, Shirahama is a must-visit for all foodies. For something new, try the dishes made using locally caught fish such as the longtooth grouper. The local sake and beer...
10 Great Restaurants in Shirahama
10 Best Local Restaurants in Shirahama
Shirahama is a battleground between seafood and sushi restaurants and ramen restaurants. Restaurants old and new fill out this historic...
10 Best Local Restaurants in Shirahama
10 Best Local Dishes from Shirahama
Shirahama is synonymous with fresh and delicious seafood. The natural grouper and bonito caught here have a unique texture. To...
10 Best Local Dishes from Shirahama

Where to shop & what to buy in Shirahama

7 Best Places to Go Shopping in Shirahama
Shirahama’s shopping scene is influenced by its famed fishing history. When you're out shopping, keep your eyes peeled for souvenirs, ingredients you can cook or barbecue at your accommodation, bento lunchboxes to take with you when swimming or for a picnic, dinner-time drinks, fresh seafood, sashimi, side dishes, and delicious seafood rice bowls. From popular tourist markets to locally owned supermarkets,...
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Where to go & what to do at night in Shirahama

10 Best Things to Do After Dinner in Shirahama
There's no shortage of ways to spend an evening in Shirahama, from taking in the beautiful sunsets to attending performances by local artists or visiting bars and restaurants. Try special dishes, enjoy the tropical atmosphere of the beaches, have a conversation with the locals, or simply spend a quiet evening in beautiful surroundings. The choice is yours. Let's explore some of...
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Useful information

Shirahama Travel Essentials
Our Shirahama travel essentials guide includes all the essential information you’ll need to make your holiday in this Japanese city one to remember fondly for years to come. First, we will examine the best times to visit, including rainfall, climate and the hottest months of the year. Then we’ll examine the basics of things like electrical outlets, emergency calls and...
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