Offering the perfect blend of nature, culture, wellness, and adventure, the Kii Peninsula in Japan promises unforgettable experiences that will touch your mind, body and soul!
Ready to introduce your clients to a slice of Japan that majestically blends breathtaking natural beauty, rich cultural heritage, and unforgettable experiences?
Then look no further than the Kii Peninsula! This treasure trove of adventure spans three captivating prefectures – Mie, Nara, and Wakayama – and each is a world just begging to be discovered!
Let’s embark on a journey through this enchanting region, highlighting must-see attractions and unique experiences that will set your clients’ Japanese itineraries on wanderlust fire!
Nature’s Playground
The Kii Peninsula is a nature lover’s paradise!
In Mie Prefecture, three hours south of Kyoto by train, cycle through Ise-Shima National Park, where you can marvel at the picturesque bay dotted with pearl cultivation rafts from the Yokoyama Viewpoint. For a more rugged experience, opt to go hiking along Onigajo, a UNESCO World Heritage Site featuring stunning rock formations etched into the shoreline. Alternatively, hike the ancient pilgrimage routes of Kumano Kodo, a designated Unesco World Heritage Site trail.
In Nara’s Yoshino Kumano National Park, only two hours from Kyoto, experience the raw beauty of Japan’s terrain in Totsukawa Village. Here, enjoy rafting, canoeing, or a traditional riverboat cruise through the spectacular Dorokyo Gorge, offering breathtaking views of the ethereal landscape.
Over in Wakayama Prefecture, just two and a half hours from Kyoto, you can’t miss the Daimon-zaka Slope, an ancient stone staircase surrounded by 800-year-old cedars, leading to the sacred mountain of Nachi. This pilgrimage route, part of the Kumano Kodo trails, retains its ancient appearance and offers a journey through time.
Cultural Immersion
The Kii Peninsula is steeped in spiritual significance, too, making it a haven for those seeking cultural experiences.
In Nara, a tour of the sacred, 20-metre-tall Kinpusenji Temple that is the spiritual heart of Shugendo mountain worship is an absolute must-do. This World Heritage site offers a unique opportunity to learn about Shugendo, a Japanese ascetic tradition blending Shinto, Buddhist, and Taoist concepts.
For the more adventurous, check out the Omine Okugakemichi Trail Tour. This 3-day/2-night experience allows travellers to walk a 15km section of the ancient pilgrimage route, immersing themselves in the spirit of Japanese asceticism – pack those hiking shoes!
One of Japan’s most sacred Shinto shrines, Ise Jingu, is dedicated to the solar goddess Amaterasu and set amongst the lush scenery of Mie Prefecture. It’s definitely worth a visit!
Over in Wakayama, the UNESCO World Heritage Kumano Kodo pilgrimage routes offer a perfect blend of hiking and cultural exploration. The Kumano Kodo Kohechi, running through Totsukawa Village, still retains the atmosphere of an ancient road with its mossy cobblestones and stone Buddha statues.
Wellness and Tradition
The Kii Peninsula is also a haven for wellness seekers.
In Totsukawa Village, you can relish in some of the the region’s famous onsen (hot springs). As the first village in Japan to declare its hot springs free-flowing, all facilities here offer pure, natural hot spring water without any artificial treatment.
For a unique cultural experience, sign up for the UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage listed “Totsukawa no O-Odori” Dance Experience. Visitors here can participate in “Narashi” which is a traditional dance whilst learning about yukata dressing and traditional music.
Historical Wonders
The Asuka and Fujiwara area in Nara Prefecture are considered the “birthplace of Japan’s beginnings.” Here you can visit Kashihara Shrine, dedicated to Emperor Jinmu, Japan’s legendary first emperor. Nearby, the ancient Omiwa Shrine considers the 467-metre-tall Mt. Miwa itself to be its indigenous god, marked only by a torii gate at its base.
For history buffs, Asuka Village offers a glimpse into Japan’s past with historical sites like the Ishibutai Tumulus and the beautifully-preserved terraced rice fields that have remained unchanged for 1400 years…
Culinary Delights & Local Crafts
No trip to Japan is complete without indulging in its incredible cuisine and crafts!
In Yoshino, Nara prefecture, experience the charm of specialty products like Yoshino cedar products and washi paper. In nearby Totsukawa Village, try the gastrointestinal medicine “Dharanisuke-gan” which has its origins in a legend involving En no Gyoja, the founder of Shugendo.
Over in Mie, thanks to its over 1,000 kilometres of Pacific coastline, indulging in seafood is the local specialty! Here, you can taste some of the freshest seafood you’ve ever had in your life – everything from juicy lobsters, oysters, and abalone: a rare shellfish and sought-after delicacy. The area is also famous for its Matsusaka beef and the regional noodle dish, Ise Udon.
In Wakayama, don’t miss sampling the famous local beef (kumano-gyu), chuka soba (Chinese noodles) and Kodai-suzume Zushi (sushi featuring juvenile sea bream cut to resemble sparrow birds).
Festivals & Celebrations
To truly immerse in local culture, time your clients’ visit to this part of Japan with vibrant festivals – they’re definitely worth experiencing!
The spring cherry blossom season in Yoshinoyama, with its 30,000 cherry trees, offers a spectacular sight and shouldn’t be missed.
For a more traditional experience, the Oto Festival in Wakayama showcases impressive drum performances, offering a glimpse into Japan’s rich musical traditions.
Where to stay
Mie Prefecture
Located near the Toba Bay, this hotel offers stunning ocean views and luxurious amenities. It is known for its excellent hospitality and proximity to attractions like Mikimoto Pearl Island.
This hotel is situated in the Ise-Shima National Park and is famous for its scenic views and high-end facilities. It offers various activities, including boat tours and pearl diving experiences.
Set within a primeval forest and sitting along cliffs overlooking the Pacific Ocean, this hotel offers a tranquil environment allowing guests to kick back, relax and connect with nature.
Offering Japanese-style accommodations, this exquisite resort features both indoor and outdoor hot-spring baths, a traditional garden and plenty of activities.
Wakayama Prefecture
This ryokan (traditional Japanese inn) is located in Nachikatsuura and offers hot spring baths with ocean views. It is close to the Nachi Falls and Kumano Nachi Taisha Shrine.
Known for its unique cave hot springs, this hotel is situated on a peninsula in Katsuura. It provides a range of accommodations from standard rooms to luxurious suites. Hotel Urushima also offers convenient access to the famed Kii-Katsuura fish market, known for its lively tuna auction.
Located in the sacred area of Mount Koya, this temple lodging offers a serene environment with traditional Japanese rooms and vegetarian cuisine. Guests can participate in morning prayers and meditation sessions.
Nara Prefecture
A historic hotel located near Nara Park, offering luxurious accommodations and a blend of Western and Japanese architectural styles. It is close to major attractions like Todai-ji Temple and Kasuga Taisha Shrine.
This traditional hotel in Yoshino is made from local wood and is close to temples in area. It features a traditional bathhouse.
A traditional ryokan located in the heart of Nara, offering easy access to Nara Park and other historical sites. It features Japanese-style rooms and hot spring baths.
Recently renovated, this traditional ryokan in Tenkawa flaunts a gorgeous open-air bath and garden.
Conveniently located near Nara Station, this hotel offers modern amenities and comfortable rooms. It is an excellent base for exploring the historical and cultural sites of Nara.
Ready to dive deeper into the wonders of the Kii Peninsula?
Join us at the upcoming Niche is Nice Expo in Sydney, where our Australian representative, Eva Huezo, will be presenting and guiding you through the stunning landscapes and cultural richness of Kii. Visit her booth to learn more and start planning your clients’ next Japanese adventure!
To learn more about the Kii Peninsula and its three prefectures, visit:
The Kii Peninsula is waiting to be discovered. Ready to unlock its secrets?
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