Zatsu Tabi -That’s Journey- Wakayama Prefecture Sacred Site Pilgrimage Complete Guide
The anime “Zatsu Tabi -That’s Journey-” is a short anime series based on the manga by Kenta Ishizaka, set across various locations throughout Japan. Among these, Wakayama Prefecture stands out as an important setting with abundant nature and numerous historical tourist attractions featured prominently.
This article provides a thorough explanation of the sacred site pilgrimage spots in Wakayama Prefecture as depicted in Zatsu Tabi, offering information useful for fans planning actual visits.
What is Zatsu Tabi -That’s Journey-?
“Zatsu Tabi -That’s Journey-” is a work about a manga artist protagonist and their editor traveling throughout Japan under the guise of research. Actual tourist destinations and famous sites are faithfully depicted, making it perfect “sacred site pilgrimage” content that viewers can visit in person.
The work’s distinctive feature is that while it includes guidebook-like elements, it maintains a light, entertaining progression with character banter and humor. Despite each episode being only about 3 minutes long, it conveys the charm of each location in a condensed form.
In the Wakayama Prefecture edition, numerous Wakayama representative tourism resources were featured, including Koya-san and the Kumano Kodo pilgrimage trail registered as World Heritage sites, Shirahama hot spring, and Wakayama ramen.
Why Wakayama Prefecture Became the Setting
Wakayama Prefecture possesses one of Japan’s most abundant tourism resources. From the World Heritage “Sacred Sites and Pilgrimage Routes in the Kii Mountain Range” to hot springs, sea, mountains, and historical structures, the prefecture is packed with diverse attractions.
The reasons the Zatsu Tabi production team selected Wakayama Prefecture are believed to include:
- Existence of World Heritage Sites: Two major world heritage sites, Koya-san and the Kumano Kodo trail
- Good Accessibility: Relatively close to Osaka, easily visitable in a day trip or 1-2 night stay
- Diverse Tourism Resources: Broad themes including religion, history, nature, and cuisine
- Visual Appeal: Beautiful scenery that photographs well in anime
Sacred Site Pilgrimage Spots in the Koya-san Area
Kongobuji
Kongobuji, the head temple of the Koyasan Shingon sect, appeared as an important setting in Zatsu Tabi. As the sacred site of Shingon esoteric Buddhism founded by Kobo Daishi Kukai, it boasts a history of over 1,200 years.
Points of Interest:
- Sliding Doors of the Main Hall: Beautiful doors depicting nature through the seasons
- Banryutei Garden: One of Japan’s largest stone gardens
- Kitchen: A massive hearth that once prepared meals for 2,000 people
Access: Approximately 10 minutes by bus from Nankai Koya Line “Koya-san Station”
Viewing Hours: 8:30-17:00 (last admission 16:30)
Admission: 1,000 yen (general admission)
Okunoin
This sacred site where Kobo Daishi entered eternal meditation is considered the holiest place in Koya-san. Zatsu Tabi impressively depicted the approximately 2 km approach path from Ichinohashi to the Mausoleum.
Characteristics:
- Approach path surrounded by century-old cedar trees
- Over 200,000 gravestones and memorial towers
- Solemn and mystical atmosphere
Walking the path allows visitors to see historically interesting memorial towers including those of warring states generals and famous companies. Visiting early in the morning or evening provides an even more silent and sacred atmosphere.
Danjo Garan
The central religious facility complex of Koya-san, functioning as a training center for Shingon esoteric Buddhism. The crimson Konpon Daito (Primary Pagoda) is particularly impressive and was depicted symbolically in Zatsu Tabi.
Major Structures:
- Konpon Daito: A 48.5-meter-tall two-tiered pagoda with a three-dimensional mandala inside
- Kondo Hall: The main hall of Koya-san
- Mieidō: Enshrines the portrait of Kobo Daishi
Koya-san Lodging Temple Experience
Zatsu Tabi also covered the lodging temple experience. Koya-san has 52 lodging temples where visitors can experience Buddhist culture including shojin (vegetarian) cuisine and early morning prayers.
Lodging Temple Experience Highlights:
- Shojin Cuisine: Traditional cooking without meat or fish
- Morning Prayers: Can participate in early morning chanting
- Copying Sutras and Meditation: Meditative training experiences
Popular lodging temples fill up quickly, so early reservations are recommended, especially for weekends and holidays.
Sacred Site Pilgrimage Spots in the Kumano Area
Kumano Kodo (Nakaheji Route)
The Kumano Kodo, registered as a World Heritage Site, appeared as an important setting in Zatsu Tabi. The Nakaheji route is particularly introduced as a beginner-friendly course.
Recommended Sections:
- Hasshinmon Oji to Kumano Hongu Taisha: Approximately 7 km, 3-hour walk
- Daemonzaka to Nachi Falls: Approximately 2.5 km, 1-hour walk
Equipment and Precautions:
- Trekking shoes essential
- Bring water and light snacks
- Rain gear for sudden weather changes
- Insect repellent spray in summer
Kumano Hongu Taisha
One of the three Kumano shrines and the head shrine of over 3,000 Kumano shrines nationwide. Zatsu Tabi impressively depicted the large torii gate, famous as Japan’s largest.
Points of Interest:
- Shrine Buildings with Cypress Bark Roof: Solemn atmosphere
- Oyunohara: The original shrine site marked by a giant torii gate
- Eight-Legged Crow Amulets: Symbol of Kumano
Access: Approximately 2 hours by bus from Kii-Tanabe Station
Kumano Nachi Taisha and Nachi Falls
Nachi Falls, boasting a 133-meter drop, are Japan’s most famous waterfall, and its powerful form was depicted in Zatsu Tabi. The waterfall itself is worshipped as a sacred object.
Viewing Points:
- Hiryuji Shrine: View falls up close
- Nachi Falls Viewing Platform: 300 yen, allows frontal view
- Composition with Three-Tiered Pagoda: Excellent photo spot
Photos of the crimson three-tiered pagoda and Nachi Falls together are known as one of Wakayama’s representative scenic views.
Kumano Hayatama Taisha
One of the three Kumano shrines, located in Shingu City. Beautiful scarlet structures surround the grounds, which also contain a 1,000-year-old nagi tree, a national natural monument.
Characteristics:
- Vivid scarlet shrine buildings
- Houses Kumano Hayatama Okami and Kumano Fusumi Okami
- Shinpo-kan museum to learn about Kumano faith
Sacred Site Pilgrimage Spots in the Shirahama Area
Shira Beach
A beach characterized by pristine white sand and highly transparent water, which appeared as a summer scene in Zatsu Tabi. The approximately 640-meter white sandy beach is a sister beach with Waikiki Beach in Hawaii.
Ways to Enjoy:
- Swimming (early July – late August)
- Beach volleyball and marine sports
- Evening strolls
Even in winter, the beach can be walked, and the quiet off-season sea has its own charm.
Maruyama Island (Engetsu Island)
An iconic symbol of Shirahama, this small island features a circular sea cave in its center. Zatsu Tabi impressively showed scenes of the sunset passing through the cave.
Best Timing:
- Around spring/autumn equinoxes: Sunset passes through the cave center
- 30 minutes before sunset: Orange-colored sky and sea
Best Photo Location: View from Rinkai Uura coast
Adventure World
A complex facility combining zoo, aquarium, and amusement park famous for panda breeding. Zatsu Tabi depicted scenes of interaction with giant pandas.
Highlights:
- Giant Panda Family: Multiple pandas in care
- Safari World: Close observation of lions and giraffes
- Marine Live: Dolphin and sea lion performances
Operating Hours: 10:00-17:00 (varies seasonally)
Admission: Adults 5,300 yen, High School Students 4,300 yen, Elementary School Children/Preschoolers 3,300 yen
Shirahama Hot Spring
Counted among Japan’s three ancient hot springs, this historic thermal resort appeared in Zatsu Tabi with scenes of relaxing in hot water.
Characteristics:
- Spring Quality: Sodium-chloride hot spring
- Benefits: Neuralgic pain, muscle pain, poor circulation, etc.
- Many open-air baths along the coast
Day-trip bathing facilities are abundant, allowing easy enjoyment of hot springs between sightseeing.
Sacred Site Pilgrimage Spots in Wakayama City
Wakayama Castle
Known as the castle of the Kii Tokugawa family, one of the three houses of the Tokugawa shogunate, Wakayama Castle appeared as a symbol of Wakayama City in Zatsu Tabi.
Points of Interest:
- Tower: Observation deck with panoramic city views
- Ohashi Corridor: Unusual slanted corridor bridge
- Koyokukei Garden: National scenic beauty designation
Operating Hours: 9:00-17:30 (last admission 17:00)
Admission: 410 yen
Wakayama Ramen
Famous nationally as local cuisine, Wakayama ramen was introduced as important food culture in Zatsu Tabi.
Characteristics:
- Tonkotsu-shoyu (pork bone-soy sauce) based broth
- Thin straight noodles
- Traditional pairing with hayazushi (mackerel sushi)
Famous Shops:
- Ide Shoten: Original Wakayama ramen restaurant
- Marui: Rich pork bone-soy sauce ramen
- Maruzō: Light soy sauce ramen
Kii Miidera
The second temple of the “Thirty-Three Temples of Western Japan” pilgrimage circuit, also known as a cherry blossom viewing spot. Zatsu Tabi depicted the 231 stone steps and cherry blossoms impressively.
Points of Interest:
- Spring Cherry Blossoms: Famous for blooming earliest in the Kansai region (late March – early April)
- Gate Tower: Designated Important Cultural Property
- Landscape from Grounds: Panoramic views of Wakayama Port and city
Efficient Sacred Site Pilgrimage Model Courses
1 Night, 2 Day Course: Koya-san and Kumano Hongu
Day 1:
- Morning: Travel to Koya-san via Nankai Koya Line
- Visit Kongobuji and Danjo Garan
- Afternoon: Pay respects at Okunoin
- Evening: Stay at lodging temple, enjoy shojin cuisine
Day 2:
- Early morning: Participate in morning prayers
- Morning: Travel from Koya-san to Kumano Hongu Taisha (approximately 2 hours by car)
- Noon: Pay respects at Kumano Hongu Taisha, view Oyunohara
- Afternoon: Explore Kumano Kodo (Hasshinmon Oji to Kumano Hongu)
2 Night, 3 Day Course: Complete Wakayama Plan
Day 1:
- Morning: Sightseeing in Wakayama City (Wakayama Castle, Kii Miidera)
- Lunch: Enjoy Wakayama ramen
- Afternoon: Travel to Shirahama
- Evening: Stay at Shirahama hot spring
Day 2:
- Morning: Visit Shira Beach and Engetsu Island
- Lunch: Adventure World
- Evening: Stay another night at Shirahama hot spring
Day 3:
- Morning: Pay respects at Kumano Nachi Taisha and visit Nachi Falls
- Lunch: Explore Kumano Kodo (Daemonzaka)
- Afternoon: Pay respects at Kumano Hayatama Taisha, then head home
Day Trip Course: Concentrated Koya-san Plan
Schedule:
- 8:00 Depart Namba Station
- 10:00 Arrive at Koya-san, visit Kongobuji
- 11:30 Visit Danjo Garan
- 12:30 Lunch (shojin cuisine or Koya-san specialties)
- 13:30 Pay respects at Okunoin (round trip from Ichinohashi)
- 16:00 Depart from Koya-san
- 18:00 Arrive at Namba Station
Convenient Transportation for Sacred Site Pilgrimage
Train and Bus Access
Koya-san Area:
- Limited Express on Nankai Koya Line from “Namba Station” to “Koya-san Station” takes approximately 1 hour 30 minutes
- From Koya-san Station, access various locations via Nankai Rinkan Bus
Kumano Area:
- JR Kisei Main Line to Kii-Tanabe or Shingu Station
- Access the three Kumano shrines via route buses from each station
Shirahama Area:
- Limited Express Kuroshio to “Shirahama Station” takes approximately 2 hours 20 minutes (from Shin-Osaka)
- Access various tourist sites via route buses from Shirahama Station
Touring by Rental Car
Rental cars are convenient for touring Wakayama Prefecture, as public transportation is limited in some areas.
Advantages:
- Move freely without time constraints
- Efficiently visit multiple spots
- Easier luggage transportation
Precautions:
- Many mountain roads in Koya-san and Kumano areas
- Beware of snow and ice in winter
- Check parking availability in advance
Discounted Pass Tickets
Koya-san and World Heritage Pass:
- Round-trip from Osaka City to Koya-san and unlimited bus rides within Koya-san
- Includes admission discounts
Kii Peninsula Free Pass:
- Unlimited rides on limited express and local trains across a wide Kii Peninsula area
- Valid for 3 days
Preparation and Etiquette for Sacred Site Pilgrimage
Packing Checklist
Essential Items:
- Comfortable walking shoes (especially for hiking Kumano Kodo)
- Drinking water and towel
- Rain gear (folding umbrella or rain jacket)
- Mobile battery
- Cash (some mountain locations don’t accept cashless payment)
Convenient Items:
- Trekking poles (for Kumano Kodo)
- Insect repellent spray (summer season)
- Sunscreen
- Goshuin stamp book
- Camera/Smartphone
Etiquette for Shrine and Temple Visits
Proper Procedures at Sacred Sites:
- Bow before passing through torii gates or temple gates
- Purify hands and mouth at water basins
- Pray quietly, being considerate of other visitors
- Respect photography prohibition signs
Points to Note at Koya-san:
- Photography is prohibited beyond the bridge at Okunoin’s Mausoleum
- Observe lights-out times at lodging temples
- Finish all shojin cuisine in appreciation
Etiquette on Kumano Kodo:
- Take all trash with you
- Don’t take plants or stones
- Greet other hikers you pass
- Stay on designated paths
Attractions and Events by Season
Spring (March – May)
Cherry Blossom Viewing Spots:
- Kii Miidera: Famous for earliest blooms in Kansai region (late March – early April)
- Wakayama Castle: Approximately 600 cherry trees (early April)
- Negoro-ji: 1,000 cherry trees and National Treasure pagoda (early April)
Events:
- Koya-san Spring Grand Ceremony (May 3-5)
Summer (June – August)
Swimming Season:
- Shira Beach Swimming Area Opens (early July)
- Sunset Viewing at Engetsu Island
Events:
- Nachi Fire Festival (July 14): Kumano Nachi Taisha annual festival
- Shirahama Fireworks Festival (late July – August)
Autumn (September – November)
Autumn Foliage Viewing Spots:
- Koya-san: Foliage at Danjo Garan and Okunoin (late October – early November)
- Doro Gorge: Enjoy foliage via river sightseeing boat (early – mid November)
Events:
- Koya-san Autumn Foliage Festival (mid October – mid November)
Winter (December – February)
Hot Spring Season:
- Shirahama Hot Spring: Open-air baths are exceptional in winter
- Ryujin Hot Spring: One of Japan’s three most beautiful hot springs
Events:
- Snowy Landscape of Koya-san: Solemn atmosphere
- New Year Shrine Visits: Many pilgrims visit Kumano shrines and Koya-san
Recommended Nearby Spots for Zatsu Tabi Fans
Negoro-ji
Head temple of the Shingi Shingon sect, famous for its National Treasure pagoda. While not featured in the main Zatsu Tabi series, it’s worth visiting alongside Koya-san.
Points of Interest:
- Great Pagoda: 40-meter-tall two-tiered pagoda, designated National Treasure
- Spring Cherry Blossoms: Approximately 1,000 trees throughout grounds
- Negoro Lacquerware: Traditional crafts
Tomoe Island
An uninhabited island with Meiji-era fortification ruins, popular for its Laputa-like atmosphere. Accessible by boat in approximately 20 minutes from Wakayama City.
Points of Interest:
- Third Fortification Ruins: Brick-made ruins
- Observatory View: Scenic vistas
- Hiking Courses
Doro Gorge
A scenic gorge spanning Nara, Mie, and Wakayama prefectures, famous for its emerald-colored clear stream.
Ways to Enjoy:
- Water Jet Boat Rides: Thrilling gorge navigation
- Former Doro Hotel: Taisho-era romance atmosphere
- Fall Foliage Season Scenery
Wakayama Prefecture Specialties and Souvenirs
Standard Souvenirs
Koya-san Area:
- Sesame Tofu: Koya-san specialty, rich flavor
- Koya-san Cypress Branches: Popular as auspicious items
- Prayer Beads and Amulets: Available at each temple
Kumano Area:
- Nachi Black Stone: Used for go pieces
- Kumano Beef: Premium brand beef
- Pickled Plums: Made from Kishu Nanko ume variety
Shirahama Area:
- Panda Merchandise: Adventure World exclusive items
- Shirasu Boiled Fresh: Fresh seafood
- Kishu Binchotan: Premium charcoal
Wakayama City:
- Persimmon Leaf Sushi: Wakayama local cuisine
- Arida Mandarin Oranges: Brand oranges
- Soy Sauce: Yuasa soy sauce is famous
Cuisine Information
Must-Try Dishes:
- Wakayama Ramen: Rich pork bone-soy sauce broth
- Shojin Cuisine: Traditional Koya-san cuisine
- Grouper Dishes: Premium winter fish
- Tuna: Fresh tuna from Katsuura Harbor
- Mehari Sushi: Kumano region local sushi
How to Choose Accommodations
Koya-san Lodging Temples
Recommended Lodging Temples:
- Ichijouinen: Beautiful garden, popular temple
- Kegou-in: Offers acharya observation experience
- Fukutoku-in: Rare lodging temple with natural hot spring
Reservation Tips:
- Ideal to book 2-3 months in advance
- Popular with international tourists and crowded
- Different temples offer different experiences
Shirahama Hot Spring Ryokans and Hotels
Recommendations by Type:
- Luxury Ryokans: Hama Chidori no Yu Kaisen, Shirahama Kogo no Itsuhoteru and Spa
- Budget-Friendly: Shirahama-kan, Musashi
- Ocean View: Hotel Kawakyu, Nanki Shirahama Marriott Hotel
Business Hotels and Inns
For budget-conscious travelers, business hotels in Wakayama City or Kii-Tanabe, or family-run inns in the Kumano area are recommended.
How to Record Sacred Site Pilgrimage
Collecting Goshuin Stamps
Visitors can receive goshuin (shrine and temple stamps) as evidence of their visit at shrines and temples throughout Wakayama Prefecture.
Main Locations with Goshuin:
- Kongobuji
- Kumano Hongu Taisha
- Kumano Nachi Taisha
- Kumano Hayatama Taisha
- Kii Miidera
- Wakayama Castle
Goshuin Etiquette:
- Receive after worshipping
- Prepare a goshuin book (alternatives available if needed)
- Donation typically 300-500 yen
- Ask politely
Tips for Social Media Posts
Tips for sharing sacred site pilgrimage memories on social media:
Hashtags:
- #Zatsutabi
- #Wakayama Sacred Site Pilgrimage
- #Koyasan
- #Kumano Kodo
- #Shirahama
Photo Spots:
- Konpon Daito with blue sky
- Nachi Falls and three-tiered pagoda
- Engetsu Island sunset
- Shira Beach
- Wakayama ramen
Precautions:
- Respect photography prohibition areas
- Be considerate of other visitors appearing in shots
- Be cautious about sharing location information
Conclusion: Making Your Zatsu Tabi Wakayama Sacred Site Pilgrimage Successful
The “Zatsu Tabi -That’s Journey-” Wakayama Prefecture sacred site pilgrimage visits diverse attractions including World Heritage Koya-san and Kumano Kodo, beautiful Shirahama sea and hot springs, and historic Wakayama City.
Keys to Success:
- Advance Planning: Narrow down desired destinations and plan an efficient route
- Seasonal Selection: Choose timing matching your objectives (cherry blossoms, fresh greenery, autumn foliage, hot springs, etc.)
- Secure Transportation: Decide on rental car or public transit in advance
- Early Lodging Reservations: Especially important for Koya-san lodging temples and popular Shirahama ryokans
- Appropriate Gear: Particularly important for hiking Kumano Kodo
- Respect for Etiquette: Pay careful attention to behavior in sacred places
- Schedule with Breathing Room: Avoid overpacking, maintain comfortable pacing
By experiencing the charm of Wakayama Prefecture as depicted in Zatsu Tabi, your understanding of the work deepens, resulting in a more fulfilling sacred site pilgrimage. I hope this article serves as a useful reference for your Wakayama Prefecture sacred site pilgrimage.
Wakayama Prefecture has so many attractions that it’s difficult to visit everything in one trip. Returning multiple times to enjoy seasonal differences is also recommended. Recreate the world of Zatsu Tabi while discovering your own unique charm of Wakayama.
