Nestled in the spiritual heartland of Japan, Tanabe is one of the largest cities in Wakayama. It’s located along the famous Kumano Kodo pilgrimage route that leads to the grand shrine of Kumano Hongū Taisha and is also dotted with riverside hot springs and onsen towns.
Things to do in Tanabe
Follow a section of the ancient Kumano Kodo pilgrimage route, one of the sacred sites of the Kii Mountain Range. From Tanabe it departs the coast and heads inland, taking in picturesque scenery and cultural landmarks.
A highlight of the pilgrimage route is the Kumano Hongū Taisha, a grand Shinto shrine deep in the rugged mountains. Originally located at Ōyunohara where the Kumano and Otonashi Rivers meet, its atmospheric wooden pavilions were moved to their current site in the late-19th century following a devastating flood.
Want to see the largest torii shrine gate in the world? Visit the 34-metre-tall Otorii at the entrance to the sacred Ōyunohara sandbank. It represents the division between the secular and spiritual worlds, offering spectacular photo opportunities as it soars above the surrounding agricultural fields.
Relax in the UNESCO-listed onsen towns of Yunomine and Kawayu, which are both renowned for their hot springs. Located along the Kumano River, Kawayu Onsen is particularly unique in that bathers dig a hole in the gravel riverbank to create their own baths. You can also join the giant rotenburo created for communal use during winter.
Getting around Tanabe
Tanabe is around 2.5 hours by train from the centre of Osaka and three hours from Osaka International Airport. Buses travel throughout the city, but having your own vehicle is the most convenient way to explore the region.