Island specialist and photographer Sei Yamaoka, who has visited around 600 islands across Japan while working as a company employee, shared insights into the remarkable features of Wakayama’s islands. Many of these islands boast extraordinary geological formations and are celebrated as scenic sites.
One of the first stops was Kinoshima, renowned for its unusual rock formations. Among the most striking is a massive hollow opening in the cliffs of Shionomisaki. This area is often compared to Matsushima in Miyagi Prefecture, which is famous as one of Japan’s three most iconic scenic spots. Visitors to Kinoshima can also enjoy close-up views of dolphins, as the surrounding waters serve as a training site before the animals are transferred to aquariums nationwide.
Among the islands, Nakano Island stands out for its hot spring hotel, featuring open-air baths with stunning ocean views. The island is accessible by boat, offering a peaceful retreat for travelers seeking relaxation.
The journey then continued to Nachikatsuura, a town known for its local specialty—tuna. Despite being open only during lunchtime, the well-known Maguro-no-Yama restaurant attracts large crowds daily. Guests are treated to lavish bowls of fresh bluefin tuna, thickly cut and generously piled high over rice.
Travelers next headed toward Oyodo, where at low tide it becomes possible to get close to the striking Hashigui-iwa: a row of more than 40 towering rock pillars shaped by marine erosion. These unusual formations stretch approximately 900 meters into the sea and are designated as a national natural monument.
The highlight of the tour was Kii Oshima, the largest inhabited island in the prefecture with around 1,000 residents. Connected by a bridge, the island features historical sites such as Japan’s oldest stone lighthouse. From Kii Oshima, visitors can admire the dramatic, pyramid-like rock formations of Kii-Oshima Bay—landscapes shaped over thousands of years.
The exploration concluded in Shirahama at Engetsu Island, recognized as one of Japan’s top 100 sunset spots. Its distinctive round hole perfectly aligns with the setting sun during certain times of the year, creating breathtaking scenes that attract photographers and tourists alike.
Overall, the journey through Wakayama’s islands revealed not only spectacular coastal landscapes but also a unique blend of food culture and traditions. Visitors are offered an experience of natural beauty and local hospitality rarely found elsewhere.
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