Wakayama Half Day

OVERVIEW

Delve into the history of Wakayama while browsing the city’s late 16th-century castle and a Shinto shrine constructed just a few years later. The samurai and feudal lord Toyotomi Hideyoshi – best known for completing the unification of Japan – ordered the castle’s construction and the town of Wakayama soon grew around it. Although all but the curved walls of the original castle were destroyed in World War II, the version that stands today is a faithful reproduction. If you climb the soaring castle tower, you will be rewarded with a panoramic view of the city of Wakayama. The nearby shrine Kishu Toshogu was also built for defensive purposes as it protected an important roadway. Like the castle, it is now surrounded by greenery. To reach the hilltop shrine, you must climb a long stone staircase, but it will be well worth the effort as several of the structures are official National Cultural Properties.

HIGHLIGHTS

• Tour the 16th-century castle that spurred the growth of Wakayama around it.
• Enjoy a spectacularly scenic view of Wakayama from the castle tower.
• Explore a Shinto shrine built in 1621 that has become a revered cultural property.
• Gain insight into how the castle and shrine influenced Wakayama’s history.

HELPFUL HINTS

• Dress in weather-appropriate clothing.
• Wear flat comfortable walking shoes.