Cycling Wakayama: Adventures by Bicycle
Discover lofty mountains and sweeping coastlines on Wakayama’s cycling trails
Lace up those sneakers, take on two wheels, and feel the wind in your hair as you immerse yourself in the thrilling climbs and descents of Wakayama’s cycling trails.
Biking enthusiasts will revel in diverse strips of road – totaling almost 800km –connecting the tree-covered mountains with picture-perfect coastline. With few junctions and minimal traffic, Wakayama’s cycling trails suit every type of rider: Professionals can satisfy their need for speed, while casual cyclists can take it easy and go with the flow.
Embark on the Deep Mountain course, a journey that begins on the white sand beaches of Shirahama and delves deep into the Kii Mountain Range. Stop to sample local cuisine crafted with fresh produce at rest stops along the road. Peddle past key landmarks of the Kumano Kodo Pilgrimage route, breathing in the fresh mountain air and soaking up the area’s spiritual heritage. And in the evening, rest and recover at the natural hot spring resort of Kawayu.
If you’re after a little more action, the Kitayama course takes riders even deeper into Wakayama’s mountainous interior. Ascend the dramatic Doro-Kyo Gorge, a tranquil oasis stretching 31 kilometers along the Kitayama-gawa River, boasting alluring turquoise waters and river rafting adventures.
Delve further into the region
If you prefer to stick to the coast, try the South Coast course. Visit the Kushimoto Marine Park, the 19th-century Shionomisaki Lighthouse, and venture over the Kushimoto Bridge to Kii-Oshima Island. Ride past awe-inspiring natural monuments like the Hashigui-iwa Rock and Ichimai-iwa Monolith.
On the local Wakayama course you’ll unearth small towns and villages and sample the deliciously fresh seafood for which the region is famous. Give your bike a break and ascend the stone staircase to the Kamikura-Jinja Shrine on foot. Nestled within a giant rock, this shrine is where Kumano deities first descended into the mortal world.
Peddle past key landmarks of the Kumano Kodo Pilgrimage route, breathing in the fresh mountain air and soaking up the area’s spiritual heritage.
Travel further along the Ojigahama Coast, a pebble beach enjoyed by both turtles and sunbathers. Then complete your journey at the dramatic Nachi Waterfall, a natural wonder steeped in legend and home to a revered deity, and the adjacent Kumano Nachi Taisha Shrine.
Click here for more information on Wakayama’s cycling routes.
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Spiritually rich and brimming with natural wonders, Wakayama is Japan’s best-kept secret. Click below and explore how you can get the most out of your experience.
