Wakayama, sacred land with rich nature
Feature
Wakayama is a prefecture located in the central western part of Honshu. The population is about 900,000, and the Prefectural capital is Wakayama City. It has a long north-south topography, with little rainfall in the north and high rainfall in the south due to the influence of the Kuroshio Current. More than 80% of Wakayama's area is covered by mountains, and it is characterized by an environment rich in nature.
Since ancient times, the Kii Mountain Range has been considered a sacred area where the gods reside. The whole area is registered as a World Cultural Heritage site as "Sacred Sites and Pilgrimage Routes in the Kii Mountain Range". The Kumano Kodo is also popular as a trekking route where you can feel the grandeur of nature.
In addition, there are many temples in this area, and people from all over the world come to worship.
Traditional crafts and Local specialties
Wakayama's traditional crafts are “Kisyu Shikki" and "Kisyu Tansu".
Kishu Shikki is lacquerware made in Kainan City. It features a simple design that is layered with lacquer, making it a practical lacquerware suitable for everyday use.
Kishu Tansu is a traditional chest of drawers made around Wakayama City. Light and soft Paulownia wood suitable for storage furniture is used. It features a beautiful wood grain with a light color.
In Wakayama, where the climate is warm, fruit cultivation is flourishing. Local specialties such as mandarin oranges, plums, and persimmons are produced in the largest amount in Japan.
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