Shirahama, Japan

I recently spent three weeks hotel hopping around Asia in celebration of my birthday. My first stop was Shirahama, Japan where I vacationed for five days. I was excited to visit the resort town of Shirahama because of its clear blue waters and relatively close proximity to Tokyo by train. 

 

Views of Shirahama Beach from room balcony and partial view of tatami room

I stayed at the Gran Resort Elegante hotel (address: 1813-8 Nichimuro-gun, Shirahama, Wakayama Perfecture, 649-2211 Japan) due to it being a short 15 minute walk Shirahama beach, high customer reviews and cost effectiveness. The hotel has a nice sized lobby with beautiful large windows that overlooking the ocean. Some of the best features of this hotel were the views of Shirahama beach from the room balcony and the large assortment of tasty options available at the complimentary breakfast buffet. It also has an onsite onsen (hot spring) with separate men and women's facilities where visitors may bathe nude. 

Most hotel rooms in Japan are compact but upon booking a reservation here guests have the option to  include an additional tatami room. Tatami rooms are covered with woven mats to maintain home temperature and are typically used as a living space or for socializing in homes. The hotel also provides complimentary kimonos for men and women that guests may wear for the duration of their stay. 

I unfortunately did encounter some issues with my room. I did find mold stains on the ceiling and had to switch rooms because of it. I did enjoy my stay but when I return to Shirahama, I would choose the hotel that is directly across the street next time called  Shirahama Key Terrace hotel Seamore. This hotel seemed to be a popular destination for visitors.

Normally when I travel, I seek experiences that are in the heart of a city and lively but Shirahama was a welcome change. For this trip, I was seeking a spiritual journey and the reputation of this destination was in alignment with my goals. Beach destinations are some of my favorite places to travel. Watching ocean waves crash along the shore gives me a sense of peace that I have difficulty finding in other places. 

  

Shirahama beach

I arrived in Shirahama in late June and the weather was somewhat overcast and rainy. In June it typically rains heavily with improved weather in July. Temperatures were in the eighties so I could comfortably wear dresses and shorts comfortably. As soon as I arrived I made my way to the beach. Watching the waves crash along the shore with light rain showers washed away all of the stress of being confined in an airplane for many hours. The beach itself was not overly crowded allowing everyone to enjoy its natural beauty comfortably. 

Ashiyu (foot bath)

Scattered along the beaches and throughout the city there were many foot baths (ashiyu) filled with hot water allowing a relaxing reprieve after walking around the city. Experiencing the ashiyu was a reminder to be aware of the sensations of my body and to be fully aware and appreciative of the present moment. 

  

It was important to incorporate spirituality while I visited so I spent a considerable amount of time exploring temples spread throughout the city. When you visit, definitely check out the temple located at the end of Shirahama beach. Shintoism and Buddism are the most widespread religious practices in Japan. There are similarities of the two religions but Buddism is more focused on the soul and afterlife while Shintoism focuses on the connection to nature and spirituality while living.

 Small shrine

 As I trekked throughout the town, I found many beautiful temples and shrines. Meditating at these holy sites helped me cultivate a greater appreciation of Japan's ancestors as well as my own and to feel a deeper connection to nature. Watching the customary rituals that temple worshipers engaged in provided an informative framework that I subsequently modeled when praying at these sites. These sites included plentiful greenery incorporating an appreciation of nature.

 
  

                                                Fireworks over Shirahama beach                                                        

One night after enjoying the city, a beautiful fireworks display was held over Shirahama beach. I had front row seats in my room. I think this is a common occurrence and definitely worth checking out if you visit during the summer months. Businesses and restaurants tend to close at 8pm so this was a pleasant evening surprise.

One aspect of Japanese culture that I have always admired is the fashion. From high end fashion to harajuku style, I appreciate the diversity of self-expression that is exemplified through clothing. That being said, the fashion for women in Japan is more conservative that what may be common in other countries. For instance, on the beaches most women wore one-piece swimsuits or tank tops and shorts. Please be aware that bikinis and speedos will typically not be worn by locals and you may get stares if dressed more provocatively. Also, when visiting temples women tend to cover their shoulders and wear dresses that are knee length. Tight fitting dresses are not commonly worn by Japanese women. In Tokyo, mini skirts and half shirts are more common but I did not see this in Shirahama at all.  

Shirahama provides a serene vacation where you can recharge physically and spiritually. I look forward to visiting again.

Please share your experiences visiting Shirahama and drop any questions below.