Wakayama is the place where traditional Japan meets a refreshing lack of tourist crowds. Forget the usual tourist haunts of Kyoto or Tokyo; here you can immerse yourself in local life with fewer selfie sticks obstructing the view. This coastal city offers a mix of comforting onsen, sacred sites, and markets selling the freshest of seafood. But where you stay will shape your experience of Wakayama.
## Where to stay
**Nishihama, not Marina City.** Marina City may have the attractions on paper—an amusement park and a flashy fish market—but Nishihama is where you'll feel Japan's heartbeat. Just a short walk from the bustling JR Wakayama Station, you'll find quiet streets lined with traditional houses and local eateries. Try the ramen at Ide Shoten, famous among locals but still a hidden gem for visitors.
**Kada is the soul of Wakayama.** With its serene atmosphere, Kada is a neighbourhood where time seems to slow down. Visit the Awashima Shrine, dedicated to the kami of women's health and safe childbirth, then stroll along the quiet beaches. The real draw here is the ferry to Tomogashima Island, a hidden escape with hiking trails and ruins dotted with history.
**Stay near Koyasan if spirituality is your quest.** While technically outside the city's main drag, staying near Mount Koya is a pilgrimage worth making. It's home to over 100 temples, many offering shukubo (temple lodging) where you can experience monk life, from vegetarian meals to morning prayers. It’s an immersion in a different pace of life and a real chance to disconnect.
## When to go
April to early June offers gentle weather and fewer crowds, perfect for temple visits and coastal walks. Avoid December to February unless you love being chilled to the bone on your shrine visits.
Wakayama offers a chance to dive deeper into Japan’s quieter side. Wherever you choose to stay, check with your hotel's concierge for local tips or browse unique stays that capture the spirit of this charming city. Reconnect with Japan's essence, without the rush of the usual tourist trail.
