Nachikatsuura, a place blessed by the gods

Kiikatsuura is a small town by the sea, surrounded by mountains and the sea. It is an important post station on the Kumano Kodo, a World Cultural Heritage site, and has the largest tuna market. On Mount Nachi, the rugged Kumano Kodo still retains the atmosphere of the Heian period, witnessing the vicissitudes and changes of history, and every stone tells a story of the past. Nachi Falls cascades down from the lush mountains, with a height difference of 133 meters, and is known as the "largest waterfall in Japan." Although it is not as majestic and spectacular as those in China, it is a cultural symbol. Since ancient times, this has been a place of practice for Buddhism and Shintoism. According to legend, Nachi Falls is the sacred body of the Hiryu Shrine, a separate shrine of Kumano Nachi Taisha. Every year on July 9 and December 27, a grand ceremony is held to replace the sacred rope that is enshrined above the waterfall. This tradition, which has been passed down for hundreds of years, has become a unique cultural symbol of Nachi Falls. Seiganto-ji, a Buddhist temple, is the oldest building in the Kumano region, standing side by side with the Shinto Nachi Taisha, reflecting the harmonious coexistence of Buddhism and Shintoism. Walking along Benten Island and Hebura Coast, the spectacular scenery of the Pacific Ocean comes into view. The abundance of seafood, especially the freedom to enjoy tuna, and the rich hot spring resources make the town full of hot spring hotels and inns. The famous Urashima Hot Spring Hotel is uniquely located and requires a boat to reach. In the cave hot spring inside the hotel, you can listen to the roar of the sea while soaking in the hot spring.