Wakayama

Wakayama (和歌山;-ken) is a prefecture in the Kansai region of western Japan.

Overview

Wakayama-ken has it all. There are white sand beaches, lush green mountains, World Heritage sites and loads of history to enjoy.
http://www.pref.wakayama.lg.jp/english/top.html

Yuasa-cho is the birthplace of soy sauce.

Koya-san , where Kobo Daishi founded the main school of Shingon esoteric Buddhism, remains an awe inspiring site to many visitors.

For over 1000 years, pilgrims to the Kumano Sanzan, the 3 large shrines of Kumano, and Koya-san used the Kumano Kodo Pilgrimage Routes. These routes, which were registered a World Heritage Site in 2004, are now easily accessible hiking trails that take you through the beautiful mountains of Wakayama. Along the trail, there are remains of teahouses that pilgrims frequented while on their voyage among other historical sites.
The Kumano Kodo is full of great backpacking trails, but please prepare wisely and use caution as there are long stretches were modern civilization (treated water, onigiri) may be inaccessible. If you write to the Wakayama tourist information center, they will mail you maps of the trails.

Shirahama, which means white beach, is true to its name. This laid back beach town attracts thousands of beach go-ers everyday (even mid-week) in the summer season. It looks like a gourmet feast for Jaws. This beach makes for good people watching but lacks the relaxed vibe of less popular beaches.

See also

• Kansai
• Akita JET travel guide