Shirahama, Wakayama

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This article is about the town in Wakayama Prefecture, Japan. There is another town with the same name in Chiba Prefecture, see Shirahama, Chiba.

Location of Shirahama in Wakayama Prefecture.

Shiraha beach, Shirahama, Wakayama-ken, Japan

View from the cliffs near Shirahama

Shirahama (白浜町; -cho) is a town located in Nishimuro District, Wakayama, Japan.

As of 2003, the town has an estimated population of 19,646 and a density of 303.51 persons per km². The total area is 64.73 km².

Shirahama is a resort town on the south coast of the prefecture. Its beaches are white sand, imported from Australia. Shirahama is also known for its hot springs and its beautiful white beach. The main shirahama beach is lined with hotels like a mini Waikiki. The hotels were built in the 1960s, 70s and 80s and are very nostalgic looking. During the summer (July and August), there are fireworks every night on the beach.

Natural points of interest include*

Kumano Kodo (old road)

三段壁 (3 Step Cliff) A beautiful view from cliffs along on the ocean edge that are 50 meters high. There is also a guided tour into to the caverns of the cliffs. It is said that pirates (kumano suigun)used to inhabit the caverns and the remains of their dwelings can be seen. A good tour for young children and dads trying to avoid shopping. Admission charged.

千畳敷 A beautiful rocky point near Shirahama beach. The view is best late in the afternoon. Admission is free.

Shirahama is about two and a half hours from Osaka by Japan Railway's "Ocean Arrow". There are also daily flights from Tokyo's Haneda Airport. The flight is less than 1 hour.