'''Shirahama''' (___l, [http://www.nanki-shirahama.com/index.html]) is located on the western coast of Wakayama prefecture, Japan. It is best known for its beautiful white beach and hot springs. The main shirahama beach is lined with hotels like a mini Waikiki. The hotels were built in the 1960s, 70s and 80s and are very nostalgic looking. During the summer, there are fireworks every night on the beach.

Get in

The easiest way to get to Nanki Shirahama is by air or by train to avoid the traffic jams on the country roads leading into Tanabe City and Shirahama. An express way is being built that will solve much of the traffic problems that now exist.

Get around

See

Kumano Kodo (old road)

_O_i__ (3 Step Cliff) A beautiful view from cliffs on the ocean edge that are 50 meters high. There is also a guided tour into to the caverns inside the cliffs. It is said that pirates (kumano suigun)used to inhabit the caverns and the remains of their dwellings can be seen. A good tour for young children and dads trying to avoid shopping. Admission charged.

_____~ A beautiful rocky point near Shirahama beach. The view is best late in the afternoon. Admission is free.

Do

  • '''Shirahama Sakinoyu Onsen''' (___l__________),
  • [http://www.nanki-shirahama.com/spa/sakinoyu/top.htm]. This spectacular hot spring is celebrated as one of Japan's Top 3 hot springs. As it lays just at the waterfront bigger waves from ocean cool down the pool's hot water. Adult admission ¥300, open 8 AM to 5 PM daily.

    Buy

    Eat

    Drink

    Sleep

  • '''Hotel Koganoi''' (Ryokan) - Tel. (0739)42-2922 - Room Rate \20,000~
  • '''Koganoi Bay Hotel''' (Hotel) - Tel. (0739)43-6000 - Room Rate \22,000~
  • '''Shiraraso Grand Hotel''' (Ryokan) - Tel. (0739)43-0100 - Room Rate \20,000
  • '''Miyukien''' (Ryokan) - Tel. (0739)42-2708 - Room Rate \15,000
  • '''Hotel Senjo''' (Ryokan) - Tel. (0739)42-3470 - Room Rate \16,000~
  • '''Minshuku A Course''' (Minshuku) - Tel. (0739)42-3680 - Room Rate \10,000~
  • '''Minshuku Katsuya''' (Minshuku) - Tel. (0739)42-3814 - Room Rate \7,000
  • '''Shirara''' (People's Lodge) - Tel. (0739)42-3655 - Room Rate \7,920
  • '''Hotel Shirahama''' (People's Lodge) - Tel. (0739)42-3039 - Room Rate \6,870
  • '''Taiya''' (People's Lodge) - Tel. (0739)42-3328 - Room Rate \7,000
  • In the summer time it is very crowded so reservations are advised. There are also reservation centers that can help find accommodation at the last minute, but do not expect much.

    Get out