Extending southward from Honshu Island, the Kii Peninsula is Japan’s largest peninsula. Shirahama Onsen lies in Shirahama Town in the southern part of the peninsula. The white sandy beach is lined with palm trees, and the emerald green sea, blue sky, and sea breeze create a tropical, open atmosphere, attracting more than 3 million tourists annually.
Shirahama Onsen is one of Japan’s three oldest hot spring resorts, along with Arima Onsen in Hyogo Prefecture and Dogo Onsen in Ehime Prefecture, with a history dating back to about 1,350 years ago. It is a venerable onsen that has attracted many noble personages, including Empress Saimei (who reigned from 655 to 661). Each accommodation facility owns its own hot spring source and offers unique onsen facilities. In addition, the town is dotted with public baths and footbaths, allowing visitors to casually enjoy soaking.
Shirarahama
Shirarahama, a white sand beach extending 620 meters, is the origin of the name “Shirahama.” It is a beautiful beach that attracts around 500,000 visitors each year.
Saki no Yu
A historic open-air bath that has remained since the 7th century. It offers a stunning view of the Pacific Ocean right before your eyes.
Along the coast, there are various natural landmarks such as Senjojiki (Rock formation), Sandanbeki (Cliffs), and Engetsuto (Island), offering diverse and magnificent scenery that has been recognized as part of the Nanki Kumano Geopark. Adventure World, a theme park leading Japan in giant panda care, offers not only pandas but also safari experiences, dolphin and whale performances, and interactions with small animals.
Sandanbeki Cliffs
Massive cliffs standing about 50 meters tall, known for the dramatic sight of waves crashing violently against its rocky face.
Adventure World
Celebrating its 46th anniversary in 2024, Adventure World is home to four giant pandas, making it a major attraction for visitors.
When it comes to Shirahama’s cuisine, the fresh seafood nurtured by the Kuroshio Current is a must-try. Especially noteworthy is the rare fish “kue” (grouper), which is exceptional in both hot pot and sashimi. While Shirahama bustles with beachgoers in the summer, it also hosts winter events. The Shirarahama Light Parade is scheduled to take place this year as well, illuminating the winter nights of Shirahama with music and lights.
Shirarahama Light Parade 2024
An event where you can enjoy music and light displays, from the beautiful “magic hour” to nighttime.
【From Editor】
While winter illuminations are held nationwide, it is rare to see them over the ocean. Following its debut in 2023, the Shirahama Light Parade returns in 2024 with new elements and enhanced performances. Why not come and see the upgraded show?
| Access |
Tokyo (Haneda Airport) → 75 min by plane (3 flights per day) → Nanki-Shirahama Airport → 15 min by Meiko Bus → Shirahama Onsen JR Tokyo Sta. → 2 hr 30 min by Shinkansen → Shin-Osaka Sta. → 2 hr 10 min by Limited Express Kuroshio → Shirahama Sta. → 15 min by Meiko Bus → Shirahama Onsen Tokyo (Busta Shinjuku) → 10 hr 40 min by White Beach Shuttle (overnight bus, reservation required) →Shirahama (Toretore Market stop) |
