10 Best Places in Shirahama for Family Trips

Shirarahama is a beautiful beach that's especially popular with families. A sister beach of Waikiki beach in Honolulu, Hawaii, this is renowned as one of the most stunning beach resorts in the Kansai region.

The beach is about 620 metres long and is quite shallow, making it safe for children to play. The white, shiny sand is actually quartz sand containing 90% silicic acid, giving it a pleasantly smooth texture. Summer events such as firework displays take this resort to the next level.

Shirahama Energy Land (also known as “Enelan”) is an interactive theme park where you can learn about energy and dinosaurs through physical activities and watching videos. There's a charming nostalgia about this place.

For younger visitors, the trick art, adventure playground, and maze will be a blast. There are plenty of cool places to take photos, too, so it makes for a fun family day out.

Toretore Market Nanki Shirahama is a must-visit when you're in Shirahama. This market is chock full of delicious local foods, so you’re unlikely to leave empty-handed. The fresh seafood is a highlight, and special refrigerated delivery services are available if you want to buy some as souvenirs or gifts.

Families love the food court and barbecue area. Head to this market if you’re looking for delicious dishes and desserts to take away and enjoy on the beach, for a picnic in the park, or in your hotel room.

Shirahama Undersea Observation Tower (Coral Princess) is an underwater observation facility that you can get to from Shirahama Key Terrace Hotel Seamore. Look through the round windows and you’ll see fish swimming in the sea in their natural environment, like peering into another world. Children will love it.

The fish are all from the sea around Shirahama, including black sea bream, girella, sea bream, and puffer fish. Weather and changes in the waves can affect visibility, so it's a good idea to check before entering. The old buildings are also worth checking out for their retro style.

Heisogen Park is a famous cherry blossom spot with 2,000 Yoshino cherry trees. In spring, there's the hugely popular Sakura Festival where crowds gather to view the blossoms in full bloom. As well as cherry blossoms, there are plenty of seasonal flowers such as daffodils and hydrangeas.

But the flowers aren't the only attractions. Set on a hill, the park is also popular for its outstanding view of the Kii Channel to the west, Yoshino-Kumano National Park to the south, and the 3600 Peaks of Kumano to the east. Admission and parking are free. This is a great place for an unforgettable family trip.

Ebine Onsen is a secluded hot spring located in a peaceful mountainous area around the Hiki River. It’s really popular with tourists despite being a bit far out, a good 50-minute drive from the Nanki-Tanabe Interchange. There’s no open-air bath here, but the view from the large indoor bath is excellent.

The hot spring water that flows from the source has a unique smell and smooth texture, and you can even take some home with you. Before you leave, try some delicious udon noodles at the cafeteria.

Minakata Kumagusu Museum was built in memory of Minakata Kumagusu, who was known as the "Father of Mycology". The exhibition room about the life of this great man also includes a valuable collection of fungi specimens, with plenty to see for visitors of all ages.

The building has an eye-catching modernist entrance and a rooftop observation deck with a panoramic view of Shikoku. Make sure you visit the nearby Banshoyama Park as well.

Most people associate Shirahama with the beach, but there’s also the Hiki River that flows through peaceful mountains and offers a different kind of attraction. It’s an idyllic place for children to play in the river. You can also enjoy family-friendly activities such as canoeing and stand-up paddleboarding.

Stay at one of the nearby campsites and you’ll be able to see the night sky full of stars. Also make time for the Ebine Onsen hot spring, where you can enjoy riverside views while bathing.