Wa-Wa-Wakayama!

I know you’ve been eagerly waiting for part two of my Wakayama adventure! You can check out the first article here:

Fun in the Orange Prefecture: Come Play in Wakayama City!

I’m thrilled to share the highlights of day two from my Wakayama adventure. Wakayama City has so much to offer, and if you can stay for a day or two, you’re in for a fantastic time.

Day 2

 

Exploring Wakayama Castle was such a unique experience! If you’re traveling in Japan, visiting a shrine, temple, or castle is most likely on your list. Wakayama Castle is an absolute must-see, with its scenic views and rich history. Walking through the castle grounds gives you a sense of stepping back in time.

One popular photo spot is a tree that many visitors stop to photograph because it resembles a baby climbing up the steps. Can you spot the “baby” climbing the tree?

 

Koshoan

Dining in a Tea House at Wakayama Castle

As someone who loves traditional Japanese things and likes drinking matcha, this was such a fun experience. It was definitely an unforgettable experience. A woman in a kimono served us matcha tea and mochi desserts. The combination of the slightly bitter matcha with the sweetness of the mochi was perfection. Chef’s kiss! Dining in an authentic, historic tea house is an experience everyone should have, so please add it to your to-do list of things to do in Japan!

Sakuasu Roadside Station

After our snack break, we headed to Sakuasu Roadside Station, a popular spot for fresh fish, local treats, and even a tuna-cutting show! The variety of foods and local goods available are perfect for foodies and souvenir hunters alike.

Tuna Cutting Show

From my knowledge, there aren’t that many open tuna cutting experiences in Japan, so it’s amazing that you can get this experience FOR FREE if you come during the showings. 

(Slight tangent, but I heard that a business paid over $800 for this experience, the locals are kind enough to do it for free every day as entertainment, so take advantage of this! It’s not cheap!)

Knife Sharpening

Not to mention the wonderful tuna cutting professional gave us a knife sharpening course where we were able to learn how to sharpen knives like a professional. It’s not as simple as just grinding the knife on stone. There’s a meticulous way that you have to hold it, place your hand on it, and push in order to sharpen the knife. You definitely need to experience it yourself to understand just how fascinating it is!

Decorative Sushi Roll-Making

We also enjoyed a decorative sushi roll-making class! With guidance, we made designs resembling Mt. Fuji and flowers. (You probably can’t tell from my design though haha). At the roadside area we were able to have this wonderful experience and I am forever grateful for it. If you’re wondering about what you should make for dinner or if you are looking for a unique experience in Japan, definitely try one of the sushi rolling courses that they have at this Wakayama hotspot.

Kotonoura Onzan-sou

After, we went to the most beautiful garden where we were able to sit, relax, and eat the sushi rolls in the bento boxes that we made the previous day. Look at some of these beautiful pictures of the garden and be sure to check this location out yourself as you can immerse yourself in nature.

Ramen for the Soul

And of course, no visit to Wakayama is complete without a bowl of Wakayama-style ramen! The broth was so rich and savory; it’s truly a flavor unique to the region. I highly recommend trying Wakayama ramen—it was the perfect way to wrap up our Wakayama adventure!

Big Thanks!

Major shout out to the lovely team I worked with and to Jacob for giving me this beautiful opportunity. Being around so much nature is like heaven and learning about gems in Wakayama truly makes me a happy girl! Be sure to check out these places on your adventure to the heart of Wakayama! <3

Also, if you are looking for another adventure in Wakayama and you like animals and theme parks, why not visit a zoo theme park with jet coasters. Check out my article about Adventure World below!

Adventure Time? An Adventure in Adventure World!

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