What is a Ryokan? Ryokans are the best way to experience Japanese culture and enjoy the true comforts of Japanese hospitality and service.
Hot springs have a very long history in Japan, and they are an intimate part of Japanese culture. There are over 3,000 "onsen" ,or hot springs, in Japan. Many can be found at the ryokans available on Japanese Guest Houses.
Wakayama Prefecture is located in the southern part of the Kansai area, and it includes a number of wonderful natural and historical attractions for visitors. In Yoshino-Kumano National Park sit the rugged and picturesque "Three Mountain Shrines of Kumano" - Mount Hongu, Mount Nachi, and Mount Shingu. The belief in the mystic powers of these mountains has flourished throughout the years. The Nachi River runs through this area and it is comprised of 48 waterfalls including Nachi Falls which is regarded as one of the most beautiful in Japan. One of Japan's holiest mountains is also located in Wakayama Prefecture - Mount Koya. In 816AD the Buddhist monk Kobo Daishi established the first temple on Mount Koya and over the years the temple complex has grown to over 100 temples. Wakayama Prefecture is also full of hot springs both along the coast and inland. The two most popular hot spring areas are Shirahama which is along the western coast and further south, Katsuura.
