[Wakayama Shirube] A refreshing journey by canoe/sea kayak

Wakayama is a rare area in the Kansai region where you can enjoy the natural beauty of both the sea and the rivers. As summer approaches, many people visit Wakayama in search of clear seas and pure rivers, and enjoy natural activities.

Among these, the popular activities that have been gaining attention in recent years are canoeing and sea kayaking .

The appeal of canoeing is the sense of oneness with the water. As you paddle quietly at your own pace, listening to the sound of the water and feeling the wind, you feel as if you are in dialogue with nature.

Especially on a river, you can relax and enjoy a time that you can't experience in your everyday life by simply letting yourself go with the current and slowly floating down the river.

On the other hand, sea kayaks are a type of canoe specialized for ocean adventures. They have a long, slender hull and are designed to be strong against wind and waves, and their appeal lies in the fact that they allow you to explore dynamic natural scenery such as coastlines, coves, and caves.

[Sea Cave Adventure]

Around Suhara Coast in Yuasa Town in central Wakayama Prefecture , there are sea caves of various sizes and uninhabited islands. This coastline, which has been selected as one of the 100 best sunset spots in Japan, is a maze-like landscape created by nature.

Taking advantage of its low viewpoint and high maneuverability, sea kayaks can smoothly navigate narrow routes, allowing you to explore Oku into rock crevices and caves. Mysterious caves and wild cliffs await you in an "ocean adventure" that can only be experienced here.

*The stern is equipped with a rudder and skeg (fin), allowing the boat to move steadily and smoothly on the water, even in windy or wavy conditions (provided by the company).

If you go further south, you can't miss Hashiguiiwa in Kushimoto Town . The group of strangely shaped rocks that line up in a straight line from the sea boasts a mysterious beauty, and at low tide you can even explore by walking between the rocks. The unique topography and mystical atmosphere make it a perfect place to approach by sea kayak!

[River surface surrounded by greenery]

For river lovers, we recommend a canoeing experience on the Hidaka Hidakagawa in central Wakayama or the Kozagawa in the Nanbu . In a quiet environment that is not overly touristy, you can slowly navigate the river as if you are surrounded by a tunnel of trees.

As you slowly make your way across the river, which reflects the green of the sea, you will feel as if you have entered a world of watercolor paintings. Fish and river shrimp swim in the crystal clear water, and time passes peacefully as you are surrounded by the sounds of the water and the wind, making you feel as if you are one with nature.

If you are planning a different kind of trip to Kansai this summer, the experiences you can get close to the water and nature that can only be found in Wakayama will surely provide you with a memorable time. Be sure to add Wakayama to your list of possible travel destinations.

Photo credit:
1. Wakayama Prefecture Tourism Federation (Public Interest Incorporated Association)
2. Islandstream