Susami Town is a beautiful coastal town in Nishimuro District, Wakayama Prefecture, located in the southwestern part of the Kii Peninsula. Covering an area of approximately 174.45 square kilometers, the town stretches about 19.25 kilometers from east to west and 15.5 kilometers from north to south. Around 93% of the town is covered by forest, creating a landscape where mountains and the Pacific Ocean exist side by side.
The town enjoys a mild oceanic climate influenced by the warm Kuroshio Current. The average annual temperature is around 17°C, and winters are relatively mild, making Susami an attractive destination throughout the year.
The coastline is part of Yoshino-Kumano National Park, and the dramatic scenery of the Karekinada Coast, with its cliffs, rocky formations, and deep-blue waters, is one of the area’s greatest attractions.
Susami has a long history. By around the 6th century, the area was already an important center in southern Kii. One of the most valuable archaeological sites from this period is the Kamimiyama Kofun, a burial mound discovered in 1970. It provides important evidence for understanding the development of ancient burial culture in the southern part of the Kii Peninsula.
During the Heian period, Kumano faith became increasingly influential, and Susami developed as a stopping point along the Kumano Kodo Ohechi Route. Pilgrims traveling toward the sacred Kumano Sanzan shrines passed through the area.
During the Edo period, Susami was governed by the Kishu Domain. A magistrate’s office was established in the settlement of Susami, helping the area develop as an administrative and economic center for western Kumano.
Today, traces of the historic pilgrimage route can still be found throughout the area, including stone-paved sections and former sacred sites known as Oji. These historic landscapes make Susami an appealing destination for travelers interested in the history and spirituality of Japan.
One of Susami’s most famous specialties is Susami Kenken Bonito. Bonito are caught one by one in the rich fishing grounds created by the Kuroshio Current. Immediately after being caught, the fish are carefully handled to preserve their exceptional freshness.
The bonito has a satisfying richness while retaining a clean, refreshing flavor. It is particularly delicious when served as sashimi or lightly seared tataki, allowing visitors to fully appreciate the natural flavor of the fish.
Highly regarded as a regional seafood brand, Susami Kenken Bonito is a must-try for visitors exploring the town’s local cuisine.
The warm waters of the Kuroshio Current support a remarkable variety of marine life. In addition to bonito, local fishermen land Ise lobster, yellowtail, abalone, tokobushi small abalone, and many other types of seafood.
Ise lobster is especially prized for its firm texture and rich natural sweetness. During winter, special seafood events and meals featuring Ise lobster are offered at accommodations and restaurants throughout the town, attracting visitors from across Japan.
Susami is also famous as the birthplace of Inobuta, a hybrid of wild boar and domestic pig. The first Inobuta was developed in 1967 at the Wakayama Prefectural Livestock Experiment Station.
Inobuta combines the distinctive flavor of wild boar with the tender texture of pork. It can be enjoyed in a variety of dishes, including sukiyaki, hot pots, grilled meat, and steak, and has become one of Susami’s best-known local specialties.
Susami is also known as one of the earliest areas in Japan to cultivate lettuce on a commercial scale. The town’s mild climate provides favorable conditions for growing high-quality lettuce, which has long been sold under the name Susami Lettuce.
The Karekinada Coast is one of the most spectacular landscapes in Susami. Dramatic cliffs and unusual rock formations rise above the deep-blue waters of the Pacific Ocean, creating a rugged coastal scene characteristic of southern Kii.
The coastline is protected as part of Yoshino-Kumano National Park. Numerous rocky outcrops, coves, and viewpoints can be found along the coast, making the area particularly attractive for scenic drives and photography.
Inazumi Island is a small island located in Susami Bay and is counted among the Eight Scenic Views of Susami.
According to legend, its name comes from an episode in which rice was piled on the island during the legendary eastern expedition of Emperor Jimmu. Because of its association with ancient traditions, the island has long been regarded as a sacred place.
The entire island is covered with a valuable community of warm-climate vegetation and has been designated a National Natural Monument. Subtropical plants flourish here, creating a rare natural environment.
At sunset, the silhouette of Inazumi Island against the glowing Pacific Ocean creates an especially beautiful and atmospheric scene.
Esusaki is a peninsula extending into the Pacific Ocean. It is home to a nationally designated natural monument consisting of a rich community of warm-climate vegetation.
Walking trails allow visitors to explore the area while surrounded by subtropical plants and coastal forest. It is an excellent place to experience the diversity of Susami’s natural environment at a leisurely pace.
At Lover’s Cape, also known as Fume-nami, waves striking the offshore rock of Kuroshima split into two streams before eventually coming together again.
This unusual natural phenomenon is known as Fujō-nami, or the “Waves of Husband and Wife,” and is also called Gassho-nami, meaning “prayer hands waves.” The sight is one of the most distinctive natural spectacles along the Karekinada Coast.
Shizuku Waterfall is a beautiful two-tiered waterfall approximately 30 meters high, located upstream along the Susami River.
The waterfall is surrounded by lush forest and is particularly beautiful during the seasons of fresh green foliage and autumn colors. The abundant flow of water and peaceful natural setting make it a rewarding destination for nature lovers.
Hirose Gorge is a scenic valley where numerous waterfalls of different sizes can be found. At the uppermost part of the gorge is Koto Waterfall.
Walking trails through the surrounding forest allow visitors to enjoy forest bathing, nature observation, and peaceful walks. The area is especially appealing to travelers who want to experience the quieter side of Wakayama’s natural landscapes.
The Kumano Kodo Ohechi Route is a historic pilgrimage route that follows the coastline toward the sacred Kumano Sanzan. It forms part of the broader Kumano Kodo pilgrimage network, which is recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Several historic sections remain in Susami, including Nagai-zaka and Uma-korogashi-zaka. Walking these old paths allows visitors to experience both the history of pilgrimage and the natural beauty of the Kii Peninsula.
In particular, the views of the Karekinada Coast appearing between the trees provide a memorable combination of historic trail and ocean scenery.
Nagai-zaka is one of the historic sections of the Ohechi Route. Along the trail, visitors can see traces of traditional earthwork techniques, including dan-chiku, an ancient method of constructing raised earth embankments.
The path winds through a quiet forest, with occasional views of the blue waters of the Karekinada Coast. Walking here offers a rare opportunity to experience history and nature at the same time.
In the peaceful surroundings, it is easy to imagine the pilgrims who once traveled these paths on their journeys toward Kumano.
Uma-korogashi-zaka is located near Susami Station. Although relatively short compared with some other sections of the Kumano Kodo, this historic mountain path offers beautiful coastal scenery.
Because of its manageable length and scenic surroundings, it is also a popular choice for visitors who are new to walking historic pilgrimage routes in Japan.
Susami Oji Shrine is a historic shrine closely connected with the tradition of Kumano worship.
The shrine grounds include a local history and folklore museum, where visitors can learn more about the traditions, daily life, and cultural heritage of the Susami area.
Susami Beach is located within the sheltered waters of Susami Bay. Because the waves are relatively calm, the beach is particularly popular with families traveling with young children.
The approximately 250-meter-long sandy beach is suitable for swimming and a variety of marine activities, including SUP and kayaking.
The view of Inazumi Island and the setting sun from the beach is especially beautiful. The scenery has been selected as one of the 100 Best Sunrise and Sunset Views in Wakayama Prefecture.
Susami is home to one of the world’s most unusual attractions: an underwater postbox.
The postbox is installed on the seabed at a depth of approximately 10 meters. Divers can purchase specially designed postcards and actually mail them from beneath the sea.
The clear waters around Susami are also popular for diving. Known locally as “Susami Blue,” the underwater environment offers opportunities to see colorful marine life, coral reefs, and the rich ecosystem created by the warm Kuroshio Current.
The Susami Municipal Ebi and Kani Aquarium is a unique aquarium specializing in shrimp, lobsters, crabs, and other crustaceans.
Its unusual theme makes it an entertaining attraction for visitors of all ages. Children can enjoy discovering fascinating marine creatures while adults can learn more about the diverse crustaceans found in Japanese waters.
Japanese Children’s Songs Garden is a seaside park where visitors can enjoy traditional Japanese children’s songs while taking in beautiful coastal scenery.
Monuments and song tablets placed throughout the park play music, allowing visitors to listen to familiar Japanese melodies as they walk. It is a relaxing and nostalgic place where music and nature come together.
Michi-no-Eki Susami is a roadside station that serves as an information hub for visitors exploring the town.
Local seafood and regional specialties are available for purchase, while the restaurant serves dishes prepared with local ingredients, including Ise lobster and sanma-zushi, a traditional sushi specialty made with Pacific saury.
The roadside station is also a convenient place to take a break during a road trip along the southern coast of Wakayama.
Susami is also known for hot spring facilities where visitors can relax while enjoying views of the ocean. The scenery is so beautiful that the area is said to have attracted the famous Japanese children’s poet Ujo Noguchi, who once stayed here.
After swimming, hiking, sightseeing, or enjoying the coastal scenery, a hot spring bath offers the perfect opportunity to slow down and rest.
Susami Onsen is a scenic hot spring area overlooking Susami Bay. Said to have been loved by Ujo Noguchi, the hot spring offers a relaxing bathing experience accompanied by views of the calm sea.
For travelers exploring southern Wakayama, it is an ideal place to enjoy the traditional Japanese experience of combining hot springs and beautiful natural scenery.
Inazumi Onsen is located near Susami Beach, making it a convenient place to visit after a day of swimming or sightseeing.
Its location near the coast makes it particularly suitable for travelers who want to combine marine activities with a relaxing hot spring bath.
Ikoi-no-Mura Onsen is located on higher ground overlooking Susami Bay. The facility also offers day-use bathing, making it accessible to visitors who are not staying overnight.
The view becomes especially beautiful around sunset, when the bay and surrounding mountains are illuminated by warm evening light.
Susami Town brings together many of the experiences that make southern Wakayama special: the rich marine life of the Kuroshio Current, the forests and mountains of the Kii Peninsula, the historic Kumano Kodo pilgrimage route, beautiful coastal scenery, and distinctive local cuisine.
Visitors can enjoy Susami Kenken Bonito and Inobuta, admire the dramatic scenery of the Karekinada Coast and Inazumi Island, walk along historic sections of the Kumano Kodo, and discover the area’s unique cultural heritage.
There are also plenty of opportunities for relaxation and adventure, from swimming and kayaking to diving, visiting the underwater postbox, exploring the aquarium, and soaking in an ocean-view hot spring.
With its combination of ocean, mountains, history, food, hot springs, and outdoor activities, Susami is an excellent destination for many different types of travelers, including families, nature lovers, hikers, history enthusiasts, and visitors looking for a quieter side of Japan.
Surrounded by the magnificent landscapes of southern Kii and warmed by the Kuroshio Current, Susami offers an authentic experience of coastal Wakayama. Every visit can reveal something new, whether it is a historic trail hidden in the forest, a dramatic sunset over the Pacific, freshly caught seafood, or a peaceful hot spring overlooking the sea.