Best Time to Visit Wakayama

When is the best time to visit Wakayama?

March to May

From late March to early April, the whole prefecture is adorned with cherry blossoms at their peak, transporting you to a dreamy pink fairyland for an instant. Kimiidera Temple, Wakayama Castle and Negoro-ji Temple are popular travel destinations. If you enjoy discovering hidden gems, Heisogen Park and Kishi Station are advised. 

Plus, a myriad of grand events gives you more opportunities to learn about local cultures and customs, including Hina Festival on March 3, Kumano Hongu Taisha-reitaisai Festival on April 13 to 15, Waka-matsuri Festival on the second Sunday of May and Sanada Festival on May 4 to 5.

October to Early December

During early November through early December, you have a chance to admire colorful autumn leaves. Exploring the urban areas in Wakayama? Momijidani Teien Garden and Kimiidera‌ Temple create a harmonious fushion of ancient architectures and fall leaves in red, golden and green hues. For mountain views, Mount Koya and Kumano Kodo also boast such breathtaking scenery.

Besides, there are lots of wonderful festivals, like Benkei Festival on first Friday and Saturday in October and Mifune-matsuri Festival on every October 16.

 You may want to read: Wakayama Weather & Wakayama Attractions

Best times are also optimal periods for hiking.

During these times, Wakayama generally enjoys mild weather with moderate rainfall, and it is rarely affected by typhoons. Plus, the air is fresh and clean, free from stuffiness or chill, making it suitable for outdoor activities, especially mountain hiking.

 Tips: 
1. During October through early December, it gets dark very early and you are more likely to encounter bears, particularly along some far-off-the-beaten trails of Kumano Kodo pilgrim routes. Therefore, you’d better carry a headlamp and bear bell.
2. It’s always useful to check the weather forecast before your hike. If mild rain is predicted, thin raincoats, non-slip, waterproof hiking shoes and alpenstocks are necessities. In case of heavy rain, it’s advisable to cancel this itinerary.

Best Time for Water Activities and Fireworks Displays: July to August

While you often see swimmer in the sea between June and mid-September, July and August are best for water activities due to comfortably warm seawater. Meanwhile, most beach resorts are equipped with on-duty lifeguards and supporting facilities including free shower areas and shops renting swim gear. Shirahama Beach with soft white sand is a place where even locals are eager to visit. Next to it, a free open-air hot spring awaits your exploration.

During these two months, many regions in Wakayama host splendid fireworks festivals one after another. You can choose the following ones based on your travel schedule: Minato Matsuri Firework Display in late July, Shirahama Firework Display on August 10, Nachikatsuura Firework Display on August 11, and Shingu Firework Display on August 13.

 Tips:
1. Because of strong UV rays at the seaside, proper sun protection is crucial. 
2. July and August falls during Wakayama’s typhoon season, so keep an eye on the relevant information and have a backup plan in the event of a typhoon.
3. Hotels near Shirahama Beach are highly sought-after, so make a reservation well in advance.
4. Since fireworks shows usually attract large crowds, you’d better arrive early to secure a prime viewing spot.

Best Time for Plum Blossoms: Middle February

There are two top attractions to appreciate plum blossoms: one is Minabe-bairin Ume Grove, where white flowers are in full bloom across the wide-open hillside, with the air full of sweet fragrance. The other is Kumano Hongu Taisha Shrine - its huge torri gate with a sea of plum trees in the background. 

Travel to Wakayama from December to February in Winter

Facing the Pacific Ocean, Wakayama’s humidity is relatively high, but cold temperatures in winter makes it just right overall. What’s more, winter is perfect for hot spring relaxation. Thanks to abundant natural resources and diverse terrains, Wakayama is rich in all kinds of famous hot springs: 
1. Shirahama Onsen is mainly a sodium chloride spring, extremely helpful for improving cold-sensitive constitution and relieving fatigue.
2. Ryujin Onsen, nestled in the deep mountains, is exceptionally suitable for individuals with dry or sensitive skin. Though modest in scale, it offers a tranquil atmosphere allowing people to completely unwind.
3. Katsuura Onsen features those open-air oceanfront baths. Soaking in a hot spring while enjoying seascapes and hearing the sound of the waves is one-of-a-kind pleasure that cannot be experienced elsewhere.

Other Practical Tips for Wakayama Trip

1. Early June to middle July is the rainy season in Wakayama, so don’t forget to bring along raingear.
2. With frequent strong sea winds, particularly in winter, be sure to take windproof measures.