Nachi-Katsuura

Nachikatsuura (那智勝浦), a coastal town located in Wakayama Prefecture, Japan, is renowned for its stunning natural beauty, rich history, and abundant fresh seafood. The town encompasses several distinct areas, including Katsuura, Nachi, and Kii-Katsuura, each offering unique attractions and experiences.

One of the highlights of Nachikatsuura is the Kumano Nachi Taisha (熊野那智大社), a UNESCO World Heritage site and one of the Three Grand Shrines of Kumano. This ancient shrine is nestled amidst lush forests and boasts the breathtaking Nachi Falls (那智の滝), the tallest waterfall in Japan. Visitors can explore the shrine grounds, admire the waterfall, and hike through the surrounding sacred trails. Adjacent to the shrine is Seiganto-ji Temple (青岸渡寺), a Buddhist temple known for its three-storied pagoda and panoramic views of the waterfall and coastline.

The Katsuura area (勝浦) of Nachikatsuura is famous for its hot spring resorts, offering visitors a chance to relax and rejuvenate in the healing waters while enjoying views of the Pacific Ocean. The area also boasts a thriving fishing industry, and visitors can indulge in fresh seafood at the bustling Katsuura Fishing Port Market (勝浦漁港にぎわい市場).

Nachikatsuura is a popular destination for those seeking a blend of natural beauty, cultural immersion, and culinary delights. Whether you’re interested in exploring ancient shrines, relaxing in hot springs, or savoring the freshest seafood, Nachikatsuura has something to offer every traveler.

Getting there

By Train

From Tokyo:

• Take the Tokaido Shinkansen to Nagoya or Shin-Osaka
• Transfer to the JR Kisei Main Line (Kinokuni Line) to Kii-Katsuura Station
• Journey time: About 3 hours 50 minutes from Nagoya, 3.5-4 hours from Shin-Osaka

From Osaka/Kyoto:

• Take the JR Kisei Main Line (Kinokuni Line) from Shin-Osaka Station to Kii-Katsuura Station
• Journey time: Approximately 3 hours 50 minutes

By Air

• Fly to Nanki-Shirahama Airport from Tokyo (Haneda)
• From the airport:
• Take a bus to JR Shirahama Station (20 minutes)
• Take a limited express train to Kii-Katsuura (1 hour 25 minutes)

By Bus

• Overnight bus from Tokyo (Ikebukuro) to Katsuura Onsen
• Departs Tokyo at 9:30 PM, arrives in Katsuura at 8:30 AM the next morning

By Car

• From Nagoya: Take Higashi-Meihan Expressway, Ise Expressway, then south on Route 42
• From Osaka area: Use Meihan Expressway, Route 24, Route 168, south on Route 169, then Route 42