Susami, town in Nishimuro district, Wakayama prefecture, Japan
Susami is a small town in Wakayama Prefecture situated along the coast with green hills and ocean views. The settlement features a working seafood market where fresh catches are sold daily, a specialized aquarium focused on shrimp and rare crabs, small temples and shrines, hiking trails along the shoreline, and modest inns with hot spring facilities.
Susami has deep roots as a fishing community where families have worked the waters for generations. The town is part of the ancient Kumano Kodo pilgrimage route, a sacred path used for centuries by walkers traveling to spiritual sites in the mountains.
The town's identity is rooted in fishing traditions passed down through generations, visible in the daily work of local fishermen and the bustling seafood market. Traditional activities like sushi-making workshops and the local lion dance festival reflect how residents celebrate and share their connection to the sea.
The town is easily explored on foot or by bicycle as most sites are within walking distance. The small train station offers luggage storage and a café, making it a convenient hub for visitors planning coastal walks, hiking trails, or visits to nearby hot springs.
The town hosts a specialized aquarium showcasing rare species like giant spider crabs, and its section of the Kumano Kodo route sees fewer walkers than other famous pilgrimage paths in Japan. This blend of marine life displays and peaceful coastal walking routes appeals to visitors seeking quieter alternatives to crowded destinations.
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