Nachi-Katsuura Travel Tips
Nachi-Katsuura (那智勝浦), located on the southeastern coast of the Kii Peninsula, is a charming onsen resort town renowned for its rejuvenating hot springs and thriving fishing industry. The town serves as the starting point for visits to some of Japan's most iconic sites, including the Nachi Falls, Kumano Nachi Taisha, and Seiganto-ji Temple. Nachi-Katsuura boasts a variety of luxurious hotels, offering amenities such as spacious baths, gourmet restaurants, karaoke rooms, and scenic walking trails. A standout is Urashima Hotel, famous for its unique coastal cave bath, Bokido, which provides a tranquil and picturesque experience. Nakanoshima Hotel, located on a private island, also offers guests breathtaking outdoor baths, accessible only by boat, ensuring a truly exclusive experience.
In addition to its relaxing hot springs, Nachi-Katsuura is famous for its tuna market, which boasts Japan's largest fresh tuna haul. Visitors can witness the excitement of the tuna auctions, held every morning except on holidays, at the bustling local fish market. Just a short distance away, Taiji is known for its historical connection to whaling. The Taiji Whale Museum offers fascinating exhibits on both past and present whaling practices, and visitors can also enjoy whale and dolphin shows in the bay surrounding the museum. With its rich cultural heritage and stunning natural beauty, Nachi-Katsuura offers an unforgettable experience for tourists.
Getting around
In Nachi-Katsuura, you can easily walk around the area near Kii-Katsuura Station. Many places, such as the fish market, local restaurants, and onsen hotels, are close by and easy to reach on foot.
To visit popular nearby spots like Nachi Falls, Kumano Nachi Taisha, and Seiganto-ji Temple, you can take a local bus from the station. The bus ride takes about 25 minutes. Taxis are also available and are a faster, though more expensive, option.
