Before you set off

It can be disappointing when your travel plans are met with a rainy forecast, especially in a coastal tourist destination like Shirahama, where many might feel their enjoyment will be cut in half. This itinerary is designed to help you fully enjoy Shirahama on a rainy day, relying solely on public transportation without a car. It focuses on indoor attractions unaffected by weather, such as Sandanbeki Cave and the aquarium.

The primary mode of transport is the local bus. Buses operate from Shirahama Station, connecting to various tourist spots. Utilizing a 1-day free pass can help you travel efficiently and affordably. However, bus frequency is not as high as in major cities, so it’s crucial to check the timetable in advance and factor in waiting times when planning your day.

This course offers a way to embrace a rainy day rather than giving up on your plans. Save the outdoor scenic spots for another visit, and instead, focus on the mysterious atmosphere of the cave, a quiet time at the aquarium, and thoroughly warming your body in an onsen. Keep in mind that weather and bus schedules can change, so always check the official websites of each facility for the latest information before you depart.

It’s easy to feel disappointed when rain disrupts your travel plans. However, this itinerary is designed specifically for rainy days. Instead of trying to force visits to outdoor scenic spots, this trip focuses on relaxing indoor facilities like caves, aquariums, and onsen.

Made for

• Couples or friends visiting Shirahama for the first time, traveling by public transport
• Those urgently seeking an alternative plan due to a rainy forecast on their travel day
• Solo travelers who don’t have a driver’s license or prefer to avoid driving in unfamiliar areas

A different plan may suit

• Those whose primary purpose is swimming at Shirarahama Beach or visiting Adventure World
• Travelers who want to visit many tourist spots in a short amount of time (bus travel can be slow)
• Families with small children who frequently use strollers (bus boarding/exiting and cave stairs may be challenging)
• Those who prefer to travel freely with their own car or a rental car

At a glance

Getting around

From Shirahama Station, you can reach major spots within the town by Meiko Bus. Check the official Meiko Bus website for schedules, service suspensions, and eligible ticket routes on your departure date.

The Meiko Bus "Tokutoku Free Pass" is valid on designated routes connecting Shirahama Station and major tourist attractions. A one-day pass costs 1,100 JPY for adults. Be sure to confirm the sales conditions and eligible routes before purchasing.

First half：Itinerary

10:00｜Shirahama Station

Upon arrival at Shirahama Station, confirm the Meiko Bus operating status and conditions for purchasing a free pass. A one-day pass costs 1,100 JPY for adults, but verify the day’s operations and valid routes before purchasing.

approx 20 min · 1,100 JPY (Bus 1-day pass)

Obtaining a route map and timetable at the counter will help with planning. IC cards are accepted, but a free pass is more economical given the number of transfers.

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10:45｜Sandanbeki Cave

Head to Sandanbeki Cave. Take the elevator down into the cave and walk through the sea-eroded passages. Be careful of slippery surfaces inside the cave.

approx 60 min · 1,500 JPY (Adult) · 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM (Last entry 4:30 PM)

The cave floor can be wet and slippery in places, so comfortable walking shoes are essential. On days with high waves, sea spray may enter the cave.

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12:30｜Tsumugi Cafe

Have lunch or a break at Tsumugi Cafe. Check their official information for menu items like kebab rice and current operating status before visiting.

approx 75 min · Varies by menu item · Check official information for operating hours

Their regular closing days are Monday and Tuesday, but check for any temporary openings or closures on the day of your visit.

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Second half：Itinerary

14:30｜Kyoto University Shirahama Aquarium

Visit the Kyoto University Shirahama Aquarium. View exhibits focusing on invertebrates and fish from the Shirahama area. Admission is cash-only, so prepare cash in advance.

approx 90 min · 600 JPY (Adult) · 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM (Last entry 4:30 PM)

This is not a flashy, large-scale aquarium. It’s best for those who want to quietly observe rare creatures; if you’re looking for entertainment, Adventure World might be more satisfying.

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16:30｜Saki-no-Yu

Head to Saki-no-Yu. This open-air bath is very close to the sea, but operating hours vary by season, and there may be temporary closures for maintenance, so check the day’s information.

approx 60 min · 500 JPY · 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM (Varies by season)

There are no washing areas or showers, and soap/shampoo use is prohibited. This onsen is purely for enjoying a soak in the hot spring water. Bring your own towel or purchase one on-site (220 JPY).

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18:30｜Nagahisa Sakaba

Have dinner in the Shirahama onsen town. If considering Nagahisa Sakaba, confirm their operating hours, seating availability, and dietary accommodation directly with the restaurant before visiting.

approx 90 min · 3,000–5,000 JPY · 5:00 PM – 11:00 PM (Subject to change)

This is a popular restaurant with limited seating, so aim for opening time or be prepared to wait. Reservations are not accepted, so it’s recommended to visit with plenty of time.

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20:00｜Shirahama Town

Return to your accommodation after dinner. Check the last bus times for the local routes, and decide on your return method, including taxis, for late hours.

approx 30 min · 200–1,500 JPY

Bus services become very infrequent at night. It’s advisable to check the distance from your dinner spot to your hotel and the last bus times in advance for peace of mind.

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Highlights

Mysterious Cave Exploration 36m Underground

Descend into Sandanbeki Cave by elevator. This legendary cave is said to have been used by the Kumano Suigun (navy) to hide their ships. Admission is 1,500 JPY for adults.

Unique Exhibits from a Research Facility

Kyoto University Shirahama Aquarium may not be flashy, but it boasts an extensive collection of invertebrates. Admission is 600 JPY, allowing for a thorough observation of marine life.

Relax in One of Japan’s Three Oldest Onsen

Choose from scenic open-air baths like Saki-no-Yu (500 JPY) or various ryokan offering day-use onsen (from 1,000 JPY). Warm your body thoroughly after being out in the rain.

Exploring Shirahama by Local Bus

A 1-day free pass (from 1,100 JPY) provides cost-effective access to major tourist spots. Some routes have limited frequency, so checking the timetable in advance is key.

Meals for this day・Accommodation

Breakfast：At your accommodation or a convenience store en route

Not specified · 500–1,000 JPY

Depends on your choice.

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Lunch：Tsumugi Cafe

Cafe / Turkish Cuisine · Varies by menu item

For dietary restrictions or allergies, please confirm with the restaurant in advance.

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Dinner：Nagahisa Sakaba

izakaya · 3,000–5,000 JPY

The menu is extensive, but vegetarian and vegan options may be limited. Please confirm details with the restaurant.

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Accommodation

SHIRAHAMA KEY TERRACE Hotel Seamore · 15,000–30,000 JPY/night

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Estimated Budget

Before you go

Your existing smartphone plan should work without issues in Shirahama’s main tourist areas. If you want to conserve data, look for free Wi-Fi services like "SHIRAHAMA FREE Wi-Fi" available at major stations, tourist facilities, and hotels. However, connections can be unstable in some locations, so downloading offline maps for apps like Google Maps in advance is recommended for reliable navigation even without signal. Bringing a portable charger is advisable due to extended bus travel.

You can send suitcases from your hotel or a convenience store to your next destination or home using Yamato Transport’s "Takkyubin" service. This is convenient for days when you want to sightsee unencumbered or when you have accumulated souvenirs on your return journey. For example, sending a 140-size suitcase between Tokyo and Wakayama costs approximately 2,500 JPY and typically arrives the next day or the day after. It’s best to confirm in advance if your accommodation offers shipping services.

Finding specialized vegetarian or halal restaurants in the Shirahama area can be challenging. It is advisable to search in advance using apps like HappyCow or to consult with your accommodation about meal options. At seafood restaurants, even if a dish does not contain seafood, animal-derived ingredients are often used in the broth, so caution is advised. Convenience store items such as onigiri (rice balls with fillings like plum or kelp), salads, and tofu products can be options if you check the ingredient labels.

Starting from Shirahama Station by bus, this itinerary takes you from mysterious cave explorations to an aquarium and seaside onsen. On a rainy day, it’s especially worthwhile to cherish the time spent in the open-air bath at Saki-no-Yu, listening to the sound of the waves.

Warming up at Saki-no-Yu, an open-air bath so close to the ocean that you can feel the spray, while listening to the sound of the rain.

Starting with Sandanbeki Cave, the farthest point from Shirahama Station by bus, this route gradually works its way back towards the station, minimizing travel time.

If time becomes an issue, skipping the Kyoto University Shirahama Aquarium allows for more relaxed time at the onsen or for meals.

Always check the local bus schedule on the official website in advance. Some routes have reduced service, especially in the evenings.

Recommended Spots

Restaurants

Toretore Ichiba Nanki Shirahama

Katata · Seafood Market & BBQ · ¥2,000-¥4,000

This is one of Western Japan’s largest seafood markets, where you can purchase fresh seafood and enjoy it on the spot as BBQ or a seafood bowl.

It offers a wide variety of lunch options and is an indoor facility, making it easy to incorporate into your itinerary regardless of the weather.

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Chokyu Sakaba

Central Shirahama · izakaya · ¥3,000-¥5,000

This izakaya is located in the Shirahama onsen district and is featured in the Nanki Shirahama Tourism Association’s gourmet guide.

Consider this for dinner. Please check the operating hours, reservation policy, and dietary restriction accommodations directly with the restaurant before visiting.

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Marumasa Ramen

Central Shirahama · Wakayama ramen · ¥800-¥1,500

This highly-rated local Wakayama ramen shop is known for its tonkotsu-shoyu (pork bone and soy sauce) based soup.

It’s a great option for an affordable local lunch or a satisfying bowl of ramen after drinks.

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Tsumugi Cafe

Shirahama Town · Cafe, Turkish Cuisine · Varies by menu item

This cafe is adorned with Turkish lamps and goods, offering dishes like kebab rice.

Consider this for a meal or break if your itinerary includes visiting the Sandanbeki and Senjojiki areas.

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Ikesu Enza

Inside SHIRAHAMA KEY TERRACE HOTEL SEAMORE · Seafood, Japanese Cuisine · ¥5,000-¥10,000

Diners can sit at a counter surrounding a large fish tank and have fresh seafood prepared right in front of them.

If you are staying at Hotel Seamore, it’s an appealing option for a high-quality dinner without needing to travel.

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Hotels

SHIRAHAMA KEY TERRACE HOTEL SEAMORE

Shin-Shirahama · ¥20,000-¥40,000

This large resort hotel is popular for its infinity footbath that seems to stretch into the ocean, diverse onsen baths, and extensive buffet.

Day-use bathing is available, and the hotel’s facilities are extensive, allowing guests to enjoy a full day indoors even on rainy days.

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Hamachidori no Yu Kaishu

Near Senjojiki · ¥30,000-¥60,000

This onsen ryokan features mixed-gender open-air baths overlooking the Pacific Ocean, along with three private open-air baths available for free use.

It is particularly suitable for couples seeking to enjoy a relaxing onsen experience in a private setting.

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Shiraso Grand Hotel

Shirahama Beach · ¥25,000-¥50,000

This established hotel boasts a prime location directly facing Shirahama Beach, often called Japan’s Waikiki.

Its location is ideal for enjoying swimming and beach events during the summer months.

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INFINITO HOTEL & SPA Nanki Shirahama

Hilltop · ¥40,000-¥80,000

Perched on a hill, this luxury hotel is renowned for its ‘Tenku’ infinity pool, offering views that blend seamlessly with the sea and sky.

This is an excellent choice for special occasions or anniversaries, offering an extraordinary experience and stunning scenery.

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Guesthouse Sankichi

Near Shirahama Bus Center · ¥3,000-¥6,000

Located just a one-minute walk from Shirahama Bus Center, this guesthouse offers convenient access with both dormitory and private rooms.

It serves as an economical and convenient base for solo travelers or backpackers looking to save on accommodation costs.

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Activities

Adventure World Shirahama

Katata · Theme Park · Adult ¥5,300

Japan’s largest panda facility. Family-trip gold

Its extensive size offers a full day of entertainment, making it a worthwhile main event for your Shirahama stay.

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Shirahama Energy Land

Near Shirahama Beach · Interactive Facility · Adult ¥2,000

This interactive museum features unique attractions centered around human perception and energy.

It offers entertainment for all ages regardless of weather, making it a strong alternative for rainy days.

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Saki no Yu

Yuzaki · Day-use onsen · ¥500

This rock bath, one of Japan’s oldest onsen with over 1350 years of history, is so close to the ocean that waves splash into it.

It’s considered the origin of Shirahama Onsen, offering a unique and rustic bathing experience.

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Sandanbeki Cliffs

Sandanbeki · Natural Landscape, Cave · Adult ¥1,500

50m cliff view + underground cave tour (¥1,300) — punches above its price

It offers a unique experience of descending underground by elevator and is a sightseeing spot enjoyable even on rainy days.

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Senjojiki Cafe

Senjojiki · Natural Landscape · Free

Coffee with a front-row view of Senjojiki’s rock plateau — sunset is unreal

Admission is free, making it easy to visit, and a trip during sunset promises a breathtaking view.

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Before you leave

Can I enjoy Shirahama on a rainy day without a car?

Yes, you can. Sandanbeki Cave and Kyoto University Shirahama Aquarium, featured in this itinerary, are indoor facilities, allowing you to visit regardless of the weather. Transportation primarily relies on local buses, with convenient day passes available. Concluding your day by warming up in Shirahama onsen is also a unique rainy-day experience.

How do I get to Sandanbeki Cave from Shirahama Station by bus, and what’s the fare?

From the Shirahama Station bus stop, take the Meiko Bus bound for "Sandanbeki" and alight at the final stop. The journey takes approximately 25 minutes. Fares may vary, so please check the official website or local 안내 before boarding. If you plan to take multiple bus rides in one day, a 1-day free pass (from 1,100 JPY for adults) is a convenient option.

For general travel information or help shaping an itinerary based on this model course, contact online-resort.jp. Please confirm prices and availability directly with each provider and make your bookings through them.

Sources and further information

Check official information on the day

• meikobus.jp
• sandanbeki.com
• www.seto.kyoto-u.ac.jp
• www.town.shirahama.wakayama.jp
• www.town.shirahama.wakayama.jp
• www.kcrjp.com
• Toretore Market Nanki Shirahama
• Chokyu Sakaba
• Marumasa Ramen
• TSUMUGI CAFE
• Ikesu Warouda
• SHIRAHAMA KEY TERRACE HOTEL SEAMORE
• Hamachidori no Yu Kaisyu
• Shiraraso Grand Hotel
• Infinito Hotel & Spa Nanki Shirahama
• Guesthouse Sankichi
• Adventure World
• Shirahama Energy Land
• Sakinoyu Onsen
• Sandanbeki Cave
• Senjojiki Rock Plateau