Wakayama Food Experiences(6)
Tuna Auction Tour & Breakfast in Nachi-Katsuura, Wakayama
Discover how experts assess the quality of fresh tuna at the Nachi-katsuura fishing port with explanations from a local guide. Then, taste that quality with a fresh sashimi breakfast including two types of tuna and a special swordfish.
Shojin Ryori Lunch in 1200-Year-Old Ekoin Temple (Wakayama)
Enjoy a vegan Buddhist lunch in Ekoin, a temple with over 1,200 years of history in Koyasan, Wakayama. Learn about shojin ryori (traditional Buddhist cuisine) and feast on a variety of fresh dishes while overlooking the tranquil temple gardens.
Wakayama: Fire Prayer & Lunch in a 1,200-Year-Old Temple
Delve into Buddhist history and cuisine in this private experience in the ancient Ekoin Temple in Koyasan, Wakayama. Taste authentic vegetarian Buddhist cuisine (shojin ryori) and experience a goma fire prayer ritual performed by monks.
Wakayama: Meditation & Lunch in a 1,200-Year-Old Temple
Restore body and mind in this spiritual experience in Ekoin, a temple with over 1,200 years of history in the lush forests of Koyasan, Wakayama, where you can savor a vegan Buddhist lunch and participate in a traditional meditation guided by monks.
Tuna-Cutting Experience & Lunch in Nachi-Katsuura, Wakayama
Cut through an entire tuna — yellowfin, albacore or bigeye — freshly sourced from the nearby fishing port in Nachi-Katsuura. Then, prepare delicious sashimi, back meat, chirashi sushi, steak and more in a tuna-cutting workshop led by friendly hosts.
Nachikatsuura Tuna-Cutting Experience & Premium Dining
Step inside Nachikatsuura Fish Port’s Nigiwai Market after hours for an exclusive tuna-cutting demonstration led by a local tuna specialist and a delicious tuna dining experience with multiple dishes, including sashimi, sushi and grilled options.

Exploring Traditional Wakayama Cuisine
Wakayama, a prefecture located in the Kansai region of Japan, offers a delightful and authentic culinary journey for food enthusiasts. Known for its rich history and stunning landscapes, Wakayama is a haven for those who wish to explore traditional Japanese foods and unique regional dishes. From ocean-fresh seafood to comforting noodle dishes, the food experiences in Wakayama ensure that every meal is a memorable one.
One of the highlights of dining in Wakayama is trying its famous seafood. Thanks to its coastal location, Wakayama is blessed with an abundance of fresh fish and shellfish. Dishes like sashimi and sushi made from locally caught fish are a must-try. Whether you visit a local market or a dedicated dining experience, the freshness of the seafood is undeniable and truly enhancing.
Apart from seafood, Wakayama offers visitors the chance to savor other traditional Japanese dishes. Umeboshi, or pickled plums, is a specialty of the region. Known for their tangy flavor, they are often enjoyed with rice and are a staple in local households. Exploring local umeboshi production and sampling different types can be a fascinating culinary adventure.
Savoring Modern Flavors in Wakayama
While Wakayama is steeped in traditional culinary arts, it also embraces modern dining concepts that cater to a wide range of tastes. The prefecture has seen a rise in contemporary eateries that offer creative takes on Japanese classics. Whether you're enjoying a fusion dish that infuses local ingredients with international flavors or indulging in a modern kaiseki meal, there is always something new to experience.
Wakayama is home to a number of charming cafes and bistros that provide a relaxing ambiance for enjoying a leisurely meal or refreshing drink. These spots often focus on local ingredients, ensuring that even the most modern dish maintains a connection to regional flavors. Paired with the breathtaking views that Wakayama offers, dining at these establishments becomes a truly rewarding sensory experience.
In addition to cafes, Wakayama's burgeoning street food scene offers a more casual way to enjoy local flavors. Street food stalls and small eateries provide quick bites that are perfect for foodies on the move. Trying out items like takoyaki or yakitori can be a delight, offering robust flavors that are both convenient and delicious.
Engage in Wakayama's Unique Food Experiences
Food tours and cooking classes in Wakayama offer deeper insights into the region's culinary traditions and flavors. These experiences are perfect for culinary enthusiasts who wish to immerse themselves in local food culture. Participating in a sushi-making class or joining a guided tour through Wakayama's vibrant food markets are just some of the ways to gain a hands-on understanding of the area's culinary scene.
For those interested in sake, Wakayama provides opportunities to visit local breweries and taste some of the best beverages that the region has to offer. Discover the intricate process of sake production and enjoy tastings that highlight the unique characteristics of Wakayama's sake varieties.
Whether you're a seasoned foodie or a curious traveler looking to explore Japanese cuisine, Wakayama's food experiences offer something to delight every palate. Come taste the flavors of Wakayama and create unforgettable culinary memories in this picturesque region.