The place where you can feel healing and encounter Japan's original landscape is Susami Town, located at the southern tip of the Kii Peninsula in Wakayama Prefecture.
This town is overflowing with untouched nature. You can listen to the sound of the waves on the quiet shores and sense the mysterious beauty of nature.
Table of Contents
- Marine Activities to Fully Enjoy Nature
- The Sunset at Inazumi Island Floating in the Bay
- Hirose Valley (Shizuku Falls, Koto Falls)
- The Subtropical Jungle of Esuzaki Island
- Susami's Kenken Katsuo
Marine Activities to Fully Enjoy Nature
Along your journey, there’s a place where you can fulfill your wish to have a BBQ or camp while gazing at the calm sea surrounded by nature.
Stepping off at JR Susami Station, the local train stop, the sea is just a short distance away.
Here, you’ll find Susami Beach, which stretches about 200 meters of sandy shore. Behind the beach, there is a lawn area where, even outside of the swimming season, you can relax while listening to the sound of the waves, feeling the peaceful passage of time.
You may find yourself wanting to camp or have a BBQ spontaneously during your trip. Even if you come empty-handed, you can fulfill this desire.
At the "Susami Tourist Information Center," you can rent equipment to easily experience this. In the calm bay, you can try out marine activities such as kayaking and SUP (stand-up paddleboarding) and also enjoy a BBQ while looking out at the sea. They even provide the BBQ ingredients.
The BBQ set features Susami’s signature “Inobuta” meat (a crossbreed between wild boar and pig) and local seafood, offering a luxurious variety of local ingredients that are rarely available in the market. (Note: Inobuta meat may not always be available.)
The Sunset at Inazumi Island Floating in Susami Bay
From the beach, you can gaze at Inazumi Island, an uninhabited island in Susami Bay, which has been worshiped by the people of Susami as a sacred island since ancient times.
The island’s name, which translates to "piling up rice," is said to originate from the time when Emperor Jimmu, during his eastward conquest from Hyuga to Yamato, piled up rice provisions on the island. The island, covered in subtropical plants, is designated as a national natural monument, and within the island, a shrine to the goddess Benten is enshrined.
Although it is connected to the mainland by a breakwater, access to the island is prohibited without permission. Many visitors find themselves captivated by the stunning sunsets over the Pacific Ocean, seen through the silhouette of Inazumi Island.
Hirose Valley (Shizuku Falls, Koto Falls)
The charm of Susami Town lies in the depth of its natural beauty. Hirose Valley offers a tranquil place where time seems to stand still, allowing you to savor a peaceful experience.
Surrounded by nature, the valley boasts over ten waterfalls of various sizes, creating a healing atmosphere where you can feel enveloped by the fresh, ion-filled air.
A trekking path leads you through the valley, taking about 30 minutes to reach the furthest waterfall, where you can immerse yourself in the natural beauty and reflect on ancient history.
The area is also steeped in legend as a hideaway for a Sengoku-era warlord, adding a layer of historical interest to your exploration.
The first waterfall you’ll encounter is “Shizuku Falls,” a two-tiered waterfall that cascades down a 30-meter cliff. In early summer, the fresh greenery and autumn foliage create a stunning backdrop, while in summer, visitors come seeking cool air and fish for river species like Ayu and Amago.
At the upstream end, you’ll find "Koto Falls." Surrounded by lush green, this 20-meter-high waterfall will surely soothe both body and soul as you take in the serene beauty of the reflected trees. The path to Koto Falls is about one kilometer long and includes smaller waterfalls along the way. Further upstream from Koto Falls lies the remains of the warlord’s hideaway, offering a contemplative journey that brings peace and relaxation.
The Subtropical Jungle of Esuzaki Island
From JR Susami Station, take a little detour to Esuzaki Island. This small island, about 2 kilometers in circumference, juts into the Pacific Ocean and is connected to the mainland. It remains a place of preserved natural beauty, untouched for many eras.
The island is covered with subtropical jungle, and it is designated as a national natural monument.
Before reaching the island, you’ll pass through the "Japanese Children's Song Garden," a park that features 10 famous songs from the Kishu region, where you can listen to the music while taking in the breathtaking view of the Kareki Sea.
Susami's Kenken Katsuo
Susami Town, a traditional fishing town, is known for its fresh seafood dishes, with "Kenken Katsuo" being the most prized catch.
Kenken fishing, a unique method involving luring fish with dancing bait while the boat sails, has become a signature fishing technique of Susami. The "Kenken Boats" of Susami are renowned throughout Japan, with the name "Kenken" now synonymous with Susami’s fleet.
Kenken Katsuo fishing starts in late January and peaks in March and April.
Enjoy Susami’s Kenken Katsuo as sashimi with wasabi soy sauce to truly appreciate the flavor, imbued with the fishermen’s passion for their catch.
Conclusion
Susami Town, a treasure trove of mystical and natural beauty, promises to show you landscapes you’ve never seen before.
Come and experience the charm of southern Wakayama, where rich nature, history, and culture come together.
