Nachi Katsuura is a small town located in the southeastern part of the Kii Peninsula in Wakayama Prefecture. Known for its scenic coastline, relaxing hot springs, and proximity to the Kumano Kodo pilgrimage route, this peaceful town attracts many travelers seeking both cultural and natural experiences. It also has a unique fishing culture, especially focused on tuna, which is brought in and traded at the local fish market. Read this travel guide for more information on this fascinating town!
Katsuura Fish Market
The Katsuura Fish Market is best known for its large volume of tuna traded daily. While the market itself is relatively compact, it handles the largest volume of fresh tuna in Japan. The tuna is delivered by wholesalers rather than by local fishermen, as Nachi Katsuura does not have its own tuna fishing fleet.
Various kinds of tuna are traded here, including Pacific bluefin tuna, yellowfin tuna, bigeye tuna, and especially albacore tuna (binchō-maguro), which is the most commonly traded variety at this market.
Tuna auctions are held every morning starting at 7 am, and the market is typically closed on Saturdays and most Tuesdays (please check the schedule in advance). Visitors can observe the auction from the second-floor viewing area without a reservation. The floor is filled with rows of tunas, offering a fascinating sight.
The auction is conducted using a sealed bidding system. Buyers write their desired price on a bid card and submit it at the bidding table. The market staff then announces the highest bid via speaker. Unlike some other markets in Japan, hand signals are not used here.
Nachi Katsuura Seafood Restaurants
Thanks to the abundant supply of fresh tuna, Nachi Katsuura has many excellent seafood restaurants. You can get information and recommendations from the tourist information office at Kii-Katsuura Station, or from your hotel staff.
Hot Springs
Nachi Katsuura is also famous for its hot springs. Some hotels are located across the bay or even on small islands, and they provide boat transfers for their guests. Arriving at your hotel by boat gives you the feeling of staying on a private island.
From your hotel and even from the open-air baths, you can enjoy breathtaking ocean views. It’s a perfect way to unwind after a day of sightseeing or hiking.
Sightseeing Around Town
Nachi Taisha Shrine and Nachi Waterfalls
Kumano Nachi Taisha is one of the key shrines on the Kumano Kodo pilgrimage route, which has been used by pilgrims for over a thousand years. The complex includes the Seigantoji Temple and Nachi Falls, creating a rare combination of Shinto and Buddhist structures side by side.
Nachi Falls is the tallest waterfall in Japan at 133 meters. It is considered sacred in the Shinto tradition and is often viewed as a deity itself. From a nearby viewpoint, you can take a classic Japanese photo featuring the three-storied pagoda with the waterfall in the background.
It takes about 30 minutes by bus from Kii-Katsuura Station to reach the shrine and waterfall area.
Hashikuiiwa Rocks
Hashikuiiwa Rocks, a line of uniquely shaped rock pillars that resemble bridge posts, are a popular sightseeing spot. However, please note that they are located in Kushimoto Town, not Nachi Katsuura. It takes about 40 minutes by train from Kii-Katsuura Station to Kii-Hime Station, followed by a 20-minute walk.
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Access to Nachi Katsuura
- From Shin-Osaka Station: Take the JR Kuroshio Express directly to Kii-Katsuura Station. The journey takes about 4 hours.
- From Nagoya Station: Take the JR Wide-View Nanki Express directly to Kii-Katsuura Station. Also about 4 hours.
Nachi Katsuura Access Information
- From Shin-Osaka Station: Take the JR Kuroshio Express directly to Kii-Katsuura Station. The journey takes about 4 hours.
- From Nagoya Station: Take the JR Wide-View Nanki Express directly to Kii-Katsuura Station. Also about 4 hours.