Wakayama Prefecture, located south of Osaka in western Japan, has been voted the winner of the Sustainability category for Lonely Planet’s Best in Travel 2021 Readers’ Choice Awards.
There were a total of 3 categories this year: Diversity, Sustainability and Community. Wakayama has cultivated a reputation throughout Japan as being a natural and spiritual heartland, and its conservation efforts and sustainable practices have undoubtedly left a lasting impression on travellers.
Wakayama is easily accessible from major cities but a world away, filled with sacred pilgrimage routes lined with majestic cedar trees, mountain retreats and stunning coastline. Discover how you can slow down, experience moments of quiet contemplation and commune with nature on your next visit.
Kumano Kodo
The UNESCO World Cultural Heritage-listed Kumano Kodo is one of only two UNESCO listed pilgrimage routes in the world. The Kumano Kodo is a network of trails connecting long revered spiritual spots such as Koyasan and Kumano Sanzan, the collective name for the area’s three most sacred shrines. Originally walked by emperors and then made popular for everyday people, the paths can still be experienced through short two-hour hikes or multi-day walking tours.
Koyasan
Koyasan is a mountainous temple complex of more than 100 temples and is regarded as one of Japan’s most sacred sites. Many of the temples offer shukubo, a temple stay experience that includes meditation, sutra copying and other spiritual activities which comprise the daily routine of the monks. One highlight is dining on the exquisite shojin ryori, delicious vegetarian cuisine created using locally sourced seasonal ingredients.
Kushimoto
Located on the southern tip of the prefecture, Kushimoto is an area of scenic beauty both above and below the water. Known as a divers’ paradise, the warm, crystal-clear waters are home to over 300 varieties of sea life, making it a great spot to explore the wonders of the ocean all year round. Above ground, places like Hashigui-iwa Rocks provide a perfect backdrop to a sunrise or sunset stroll by the coast.
Shirahama
The coastal town of Shirahama is known for its relaxing resorts, white sand beaches and hot springs with ocean views. Shirarahama Beach is sister beach to Hawaii’s famous Waikiki and hosts a range of events such as an annual Sand Festival that features impressive sand sculptures. Meanwhile, Shirahama Onsen boasts a 1300-year history, with the outdoor bath Saki-no-Yu said to have been once frequented by an emperor.
Lonely Planet’s Best in Travel 2021 Readers’ Choice Awards
https://www.lonelyplanet.com/articles/best-in-travel-2021-readers-choice-awards
