Shirahama Sightseeing Cycling Model Course|Wakayama, Japan

Hello! This is RabbiTravel from Japan!!

I spent three days in Shirahama, Wakayama, and I couldn’t resist exploring every sightseeing spot by bicycle. After countless hours of research and riding, I’ve put together the ultimate one-day cycling itinerary that lets you experience the very best of this coastal paradise. Let’s dive into the route!

Best Shirahama Hotel Shirahama Key Terrace Hotel Seamore

Contents!

Detailed Stop-by-Stop Guide
Final Thoughts

Detailed Stop-by-Stop Guide

The Itinerary at a Glance

9:00 AM
Rent Your Bike at Shirasuna
Pick up your bicycle at Shirasuna, the most affordable rental spot around.
9:30 AM
Sandanbeki (Three-Step Cliffs)
Feel the power of nature as you conquer this breathtaking climb.
10:30 AM
Nanki Shirahama Olive & Gelato Factory
Reward yourself with a scoop of irresistible gelato.
11:00 AM
Senjōjiki
Pause and take in the vast, layered rock formations.
12:00 PM
Toretore Market
Enjoy shopping and a live tuna disassembly show.
12:30 PM
Lunch at Seafood Sushi Toretore Market
Savor fresh sushi in a bustling market atmosphere.
2:00 PM
Kagerou Café
Sample local specialties with a unique food-tasting experience.
3:00 PM
Engetsu Island
Capture stunning photos at this iconic scenic spot.
3:30 PM
Hotel Kawakyu Museum
Immerse yourself in art at the hotel’s museum.
4:15 PM
Return Your Bike & Relax with a Foot Bath
Unwind with a soothing foot bath before the day ends.

Departure from Your Hotel

stayed at the wildly popular Shirahama Key Terrace Hotel Seamo – a favorite among young travelers. This isn’t just any hotel: along with luxurious hot springs, there’s an infinity foot bath, a trendy shampoo bar, and even a playroom featuring table tennis and billiards. If you haven’t decided on your accommodation in Shirahama yet, I highly recommend considering this gem.

Rent a Bicycle at Shirasuna

At Shirasuna, you can rent a bike easily between 9:00 AM and 4:30 PM. The rental shop offers a range of options, including:

Standard bicycles (10 available)
Electric-assist bikes with baskets (6 available)
Medium-sized electric-assist bikes with baskets (2 available)
Electric-assist mountain bikes (2 available)

Rates are very reasonable (500 yen for a standard bike and 1,000 yen for an electric-assist, plus a 1,000 yen guarantee fee). Given the hilly terrain around Shirahama, I strongly recommend opting for an electric-assist bike—even though I bravely chose the non-assisted option and worked up quite a sweat!

Embrace Nature at Sandanbeki

Your first major stop is Sandanbeki, or “Three-Step Cliffs.” This dramatic natural wonder is about a 15-minute ride from the beach. The route is a bit steep, so be prepared for a climb that rewards you with panoramic views. Besides enjoying the breathtaking scenery from the outside, you can also explore the Sandanbeki Cave for a unique perspective of these rugged cliffs.

Sweet Relief at the Olive & Gelato Factory

Just a short 2–3 minute ride from Sandanbeki, the Nanki Shirahama Olive & Gelato Factory is the perfect spot to recover from your uphill battle. Enjoy a creamy, delicious gelato that’s sure to refresh your spirits—an ideal treat to switch up the pace of your tour.

A Relaxing Pause at Senjōjiki

Next, head to Senjōjiki, a natural formation where layers of ancient rock resemble thousands of tatami mats spread across the landscape. Located on the descent from Sandanbeki, Senjōjiki offers a serene spot to catch your breath. There’s also a charming tea house nearby (Senjō Chaya) where I enjoyed a refreshing juice—often available at a discount with the local walking map coupon.

Detail Senjojiki Experience

Experience the Toretore Market

Cycle over to the Toretore Market where the excitement continues with a live tuna disassembly show. This bustling market is not only a feast for the eyes, with displays of fresh seafood and vibrant local produce, but also a unique cultural experience. After the show, browse through various souvenirs and treat yourself to a little shopping.

Lunch at Seafood Sushi Toretore Market

For lunch, make your way to the sushi restaurant right across from the market. I was lucky to visit on a “Toretore Day,” when you get a special deal—sushi with a drink and red miso soup for only 1,850 yen. The restaurant, though typically busy, offers a more relaxed dining experience compared to other market eateries, and the sushi is simply outstanding.

Savor Local Delicacies at Kagerou Café

No trip to Shirahama is complete without trying the region’s signature dish—Kagerou. At Kagerou Café (also known as Fukubishi/Kagerou Café), you can sample an assortment of Kagerou dishes, including the exclusive raw version known as “Nama Kagerou,” which you won’t find anywhere else. Note that the café operates on a one-drink-per-person policy, so plan accordingly.

Capture the Charm of Engetsu Island

After your culinary adventures, it’s time to pedal towards Engetsu Island. Even if you view it from afar, the sight of this iconic island makes for an excellent photo opportunity. If you’re fortunate, you might even catch the sunset streaming through the natural archway—an unforgettable moment!

Art Appreciation at Hotel Kawakyu Museum

Next, visit the Hotel Kawakyu Museum. Whether you’re a hotel guest or a visitor willing to pay a small entrance fee, the museum offers a refreshing dose of art and culture. The carefully curated exhibits are a pleasant contrast to the natural splendor you’ve experienced throughout the day.

Return Your Bike and Unwind with a Foot Bath

As the day winds down, return your bike at Shirasuna and treat yourself to a relaxing foot bath. Shirahama is dotted with foot bath spots and sandy beachside retreats, making it easy to find the perfect place to soothe your tired feet. If time allows, take a leisurely walk along the beach and enjoy the coastal atmosphere one last time.

Final Thoughts