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Can I go whale watching in Wakayama? What you need to know about the highlights and how to enjoy them

水面に潜っていくマッコウクジラの尾びれ

Can I go whale watching in Wakayama?

マッコウクジラの尾びれが水面から上がる様子

Wakayama is surrounded by rich seas and has long had a close relationship with whales and dolphins.

Many of you may be wondering, "Can I go whale watching in Wakayama?" Many people may be wondering, "Can I go whale watching in Wakayama?

In this article,Current status and highlights of whale watching in WakayamaIn addition to the following tours, we will also introduce tours to Okinawa and Amami Oshima, which are considered to be the home of this tour♪.

This article is for...
◆Want to experience whale watching in Wakayama?
◆For those who want to know in advance about living creatures and sightseeing information that can be seen in Wakayama
◆Those who want to observe whales and dolphins while enjoying the sea and nature in Wakayama
Those who want to compare and consider full-scale whale watching tours such as Okinawa and Amami Oshima.

↓Click here to read the article.

Popular whale watching tours are
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Basic Knowledge of Whale Watching in Wakayama

ホエールウォッチングを楽しむツアー参加者

Whale watching in Wakayama is mainly held in the waters of Taiji Town and Kushimoto Town.

Although still small in scale nationally,Popular as an experience to interact with marine lifeWe are collecting the

First, let's keep in mind what kind of whales and dolphins you can see in Wakayama, the season, and the approximate fees!

Popular whale watching tours are
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Whales seen in the waters of Wakayama

水しぶきをあげてジャンプする迫力満点のザトウクジラ

In the waters of Wakayama,Sperm whales, humpback whales, and minke whalesand other marine life have been sighted.

These whales are often observed at specific times of the year and under specific conditions, and are not always encountered.

However, when you do encounter it, it will be a rare opportunity to experience a spectacular moment of nature!

Whales you can see in Wakayama

◆ Sperm whale (Balaenoptera musculus)
Length: Approximately 12 to 20 meters, the largest of all whales
Distinctive large head and lower jaw with teeth. Feeds mainly in deep waters,On the surface of the water you can see the squirts and part of their backs.There are times when

◆ humpback whale (Megaptera novaeangliae)
Length: about 13 to 16 meters
Long pectoral fins and unique breeches(jumping), which is known for its In winter, they gather in warmer waters to raise their young and breed.

◆ Minke whale (Balaenoptera musculus)
Length: about 7 to 10 meters
In small baleen whales,act in packsOften Bleaching," jumping to the surface of the water, and squirting may be seen.

↓Click here to read the article.

 

When is Wakayama Whale Watching held?

4月のホエールウォッチングツアースケジュール

In Wakayama Prefecture, whale watching season is mainlyApril to OctoberIt is over the

During this period, large species such as sperm whales, humpback whales, and minke whales can be observed around Kushimoto-cho and Nachi-Katsuura-cho.

Smaller species such as the Komakko, Gondola, and bottlenose dolphin, as well as pods of dolphins, may also be sighted through the fall.

↓Click here to read the article.

 

Prices and Hours for Wakayama Whale Watching

ホエールウォッチングツアーの料金

Whale watching tours in Wakayama Prefecture are generally available per adult.5,000 to 8,000 yenThe service is offered at

Tour duration isUsually 2 to 3 hoursand mainly observed on board.

Many of the plans have participation requirements for elementary school students and older, and are recommended for families.â

Whale watching tours in Wakayama
◆Rates
Adult 1 person 5,000-8,000 yen
◆Required time
About 2 to 3 hours (mostly observation on board)
◆Terms and Conditions of Participation
Children from elementary school age and up are eligible to participate.
◆Features
Many plans for families.

 

Wakayama Whale Watching
Spotlight and Points of Interest

水面に姿を現すザトウクジラ

Many communities in Wakayama are involved in whale and dolphin watching, including the towns of Taiji, Kushimoto, and Nachikatsuura!

Boats depart from each port,Attractive to combine with sightseeing.Â

Next, we will introduce spots and points where whale watching is held in Wakayama.

Popular whale watching tours are
this way (direction close to the speaker or towards the speaker)

 

Whale watching in Taiji Town

In Taiji Town, Wakayama Prefecture, with its deep history with whales, whale watching can be enjoyed.

The town of Taiji is located inWhale TownIt is known as the birthplace of old-style whaling and for tourists.Experience programs to interact with dolphins and small whalesis also offered.

Tours departing from the town's harbor allow visitors to observe natural marine life up close,Families and beginners can participate with ease.The charm of the

Basic information on the town of Taiji
◆Outline: Taiji Town is located in Higashimuro District, Wakayama Prefecture, Japan. It belongs to Kinan region.

Summary of Tours in Taiji Town
◆The main time of the year is from spring to fall.
◆History is deep as the birthplace of old-style whaling
◆Families and beginners can also enjoy the fun.
◆Experience interacting with dolphins and small whales
◆ "Whale Museum" to learn about culture and history.
◆Taichi-cho, Wakayama Prefecture is famous as the "town of whales

 

Whale watching in Kushimoto Town

At Sue Port in Kushimoto Town, whale-watching tours are offered,Whales and dolphins riding the Kuroshio Current northward You can expect to encounter

Tours are small and depart from fishing ports,Friendly commentary by local guidesfeatures.

Participants include many families and beginners, and the ship is equipped with toilets.

Basic Information on Kushimoto-cho
◆Outline: Kushimoto-cho is a town in Higashimuro-gun, Wakayama Prefecture. It has Cape Ushio, the southernmost point of Honshu.

Kushimoto-cho Tour Summary
◆A wide variety of tours for beginners and tourists
◆ Rich marine ecosystems spread out under the influence of the Kuroshio Current
◆High chance to see whales and dolphins
◆Kushimoto Town is famous as the southernmost town in Japan (Honshu)
◆ Can be combined with diving and snorkeling

 

Whale watching in Nachikatsuura Town

In the vicinity of Ukui fishing port in Nachikatsuura Town,Whale watching and dolphin watching toursis held, and there are encounters with marine life such as sperm whales, fin whales, and bottlenose dolphins!

Tours can be combined with sightseeingIt is recommended that families and beginners can easily participate in this event.

On board, local guides will provide commentary, making it a valuable experience for visitors to learn about and observe natural ecology and the marine environment.

Basic Information on Nachikatsuura Town
◆Outline: Nachikatsuura is a town in Higashimuro District, Wakayama Prefecture, Japan. It belongs to Kinan region.

Summary of tours in Nachikatsuura Town
◆ observe dolphins and whales up close
◆After the tour, you can also enjoy fresh seafood.
◆Easy to combine with hot springs and sightseeing.
Tour departing from ◆ Fishing port for easy participation
◆Nachikatsuura Town is known as a hot spring resort and fishing port town

 

Wakayama Whale Watching Point

ホエールウォッチングの予約ポイントとコツ

Whale watching is greatly affected by weather and sea conditions, so it is essential to check information the day before or on the day of departure to determine whether or not a whale watching trip is possible!

Especially in the summer months, when sudden weather changes and strong winds are likely to occur,Check weather forecast and tour company information in advance.Let's do it.

It is also recommended to prepare for seasickness, wear clothes that can get wet, and take anti-sickness medicine.

↓Click here to read the article.

 

I would like to know how it compares to Wakayama!
The real whale-watching situation

水しぶきと虹がかかるホエールウォッチング

Whale-watching can be enjoyed in Wakayama as well, but for a more accurate and powerful experience, Okinawa and Amami-Oshima are recommended!

Especially in the Kerama Islands of Okinawa, humpback whales gather from January to March,Observe mother whales and calves up close.There is a chance♪

Whale migration was also seen on Amami-Oshima Island,High encounter rate of more than 951 TP3TThe area boasts a total area of 1,760 square kilometers, so you can expect an impressive whale-watching experience.

The encounter rate is almost 1001 TP3T!
↓Click here for popular whale watching tours.

Popular whale watching tours are
this way (direction close to the speaker or towards the speaker)

 

Why Okinawa and Amami Oshima?
Is it popular for whale watching?

沖縄のホエールウォッチングツアー船とクジラの尾びれ

Whale watching in Okinawa and Amami Oshima Island is particularly popular compared to Wakayama for a reason.

Why are Okinawa and Amami Oshima popular for whale watching?A higher probability of observing powerful whales than in Wakayama.It is located at the point

A whale watching experience in Okinawa or Amami Oshima Island is a special one that is hard to find in Wakayama♪.

↓Click here to read the article.

 

Seasons and Highlights of Okinawa and Amami Oshima

ホエールウォッチングで出会えるクジラの親子

Whale watching in Okinawa and Amami-Oshima is attractive because of the power and high probability of encountering whales, which cannot be experienced in Wakayama.

Especially in the Kerama Islands of Okinawa, humpback whales gather from January to March to breed and give birth, and the encounter rate can reach 901 TP3T or higher.

Also, mother whales and calves swim together in harmony, and breaching whales jump with their tail fins raised,The ability to observe dynamic behavior up close is a key feature.It is.

Held in Kerama, Okinawa!
↓Click here for whale watching tours

Held in the Kerama Islands!
Click here for whale watching tours

Held on Amami Oshima!
↓Click here for whale watching tours

Held on Amami Oshima!
Click here for whale watching tours

 

Recommendations as rated by travelers through word of mouth

ホエールウォッチングツアーの口コミ

Whale watching tours in Okinawa and Amami Oshima by word of mouth.The power of seeing humpback whales up close is amazing.and is highly regarded.

The guide's careful commentary on the boat is also well-received, allowing visitors to learn about whale ecology and behavior while observing the whales.

In addition, families and beginners can participate with ease.Variety of half-day and full-day toursand other amenities such as transportation and restroom facilities are also appreciated.

Half Day Course
↓Click here for popular whale watching tours.

Whale watching half-day tours are
this way (direction close to the speaker or towards the speaker)

1 day course
↓Click here for popular whale watching tours.

Whale watching one-day tours are
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It can be enjoyed outside of Wakayama!
Introduction to Whale Watching Spots

ホエールウォッチングで見るクジラの尾びれとジャンプ

You can also experience whale watching in Wakayama, but if you want to enjoy more authentic and powerful whale watching,Check out other popular spotsI would like to do so!

In Okinawa and other areas, the excitement is greatly enhanced by the large number of migrating humpback whales during the winter, when breaching and parent and calf whales can be observed up close and personal.

From here,Whale watching spots popular among travelersâ

↓Click here to read the article.

Popular whale watching tours are
this way (direction close to the speaker or towards the speaker)

 

Amami Oshima

ホエールウォッチング船とダイナミックなクジラ

The probability of encountering whales in the waters of Amami Oshima is more than 90%, and there are many whale-watching tours that even beginners can enjoy.

Sharing information with local research institutions to efficiently search for whalesTherefore, the encounter rate is increasing year by year. â

First-time visitors can see the powerful jumps of humpback whales, which can reach 15 meters, and the close-up view of a parent and child swimming together, with easy-to-understand explanations provided by the guides.

Basic Information on Amami Oshima Island
◆Outline: Located in Kagoshima Prefecture, it is the third largest island in Japan. It features rich nature with beautiful coral reef seas and subtropical forests.

Held on Amami Oshima!
↓Click here for whale watching tours

Held on Amami Oshima!
Click here for whale watching tours

↓Click here to read the article.

 

main island of Okinawa

海上で見る潮吹きと海中のダイビング

Whale watching tours depart from Naha City in the center of Okinawa's main island,Easy to access and easy to participate in between sightseeingThe charm of this product is that it is a "good" product!

Departing from the port of Naha, the cruise takes about one hour to reach the spot where the whales can be seen, allowing visitors to observe the powerful movements of the humpback whales up close.

Morning and afternoon half-day plans are available,Easy tours for families and beginnersThe first two are the following.

Basic Information on Okinawa
◆Outline: Okinawa Prefecture consists of more than 150 islands in the East China Sea between Taiwan and Honshu.

Held on the main island of Okinawa!
↓Click here for whale watching tours

Held on the main island of Okinawa!
Click here for whale watching tours

↓Click here to read the article.

 

Kerama Islands

美しい海とホエールウォッチングのツアー船

The Kerama Islands are about an hour away from the main island of Okinawa by high-speed boat,A spot to enjoy whale watching in crystal clear waters.It is.

Especially around Zamami Island, you can observe the dynamic breaching and tail-beating of humpback whales up close, which makes for great photo opportunities♪.

January through March is the most active season for whales, and chances of encountering them are high, with the possibility of seeing multiple groups!

Basic Information on Kerama Islands
◆Outline: An island group consisting of more than 20 islands of various sizes scattered in the East China Sea, about 40 km west of Naha City in the southern part of Okinawa Island.

Held in the Kerama Islands!
↓Click here for whale watching tours

Held in the Kerama Islands!
Click here for whale watching tours

↓Click here to read the article.

 

From Wakayama
To participate in the Okinawa/Amami Oshima Tour

ホエールウォッチングへ向かう飛行機

To participate in whale watching tours in Okinawa/Amami Oshima from Wakayama or Kansai area,Prepare in advance and hold down transportation.is the key to success.

Organizing your airport access, tour reservations, and preparation of personal belongings will ensure a safe and fulfilling experience even during your limited stay.

Here are some specific tips... ♪

Popular whale watching tours are
this way (direction close to the speaker or towards the speaker)

 

Directions and Transportation

ホエールウォッチングツアーの玄関口、那覇空港

From Wakayama, direct flights are available to the main islands of Okinawa and Amami Oshima via Itami Airport and Kansai International Airport.

It takes about 2 hours to Naha Airport and about 2 hours and 30 minutes to Amami Oshima Island, and you can enjoy weekend trips by choosing flights departing in the morning and returning in the evening.

From the airportPick-up and drop-off for rental cars and tour companiesto get to the whale-watching point smoothly.

Book your rental car in Okinawa from here ↓↓.

Popular Okinawa Main Island Car Rental Plans are
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Tips on when to book and how to keep costs down

ホエールウォッチングツアーの予約確認

Whale watching tours in Okinawa and Amami are busy from December to March,Book Earlyis recommended!

Choosing a plan that includes airline tickets and tours will allow you to travel smoothly while keeping costs down.

You can also take advantage of weekday, early morning and evening departures, and promotions from travel agencies and official websites to save even more money.

point
◆Compare tours from multiple companies
◆Early reservation is safe during peak season.
◆Select flights departing on weekdays, early mornings and evenings
◆Flexible adjustments based on season and sea conditions
◆Take advantage of the combination plan of airline tickets and tours
◆Check out the promotions at travel agencies and official websites.

 

What to bring, what to wear, and how to take care of yourself

双眼鏡でホエールウォッチングを楽しむ人

Whale watching in Okinawa and Amami in winter, because the wind and sea water on board cool the boat,Warm clothing, hats, glovesPreparation is essential, such as

If you are prone to seasickness,Anti-Drunkenness in Advanceand wearing clothing that can cope with the shaking will allow you to enjoy comfortable observation.

Further,Cameras and binocularsBringing your own camera will allow you to record the powerful breaching of the humpback whales and the parent and calf whales, making it a memorable experience.

Recommended Clothing and What to Bring
◆Dress
Warm clothes
Waterproof shoes
Wear clothes that are easy to move in
Hat and sunglasses
・Clothing made of quick-drying materials

◆Things to bring
Towel
Anti-Drunken Drugs
Waterproof bag
Beverages and snacks
Cameras and binoculars

↓Click here to read the article.

 

Wakayama Whale Watching
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q. How likely is whale watching in Wakayama to see whales and dolphins?
There have been reports of sightings of dolphins and small whales in the waters of Wakayama,Encounter rates vary depending on weather, season, and ocean area.I will do so.
Large humpback whales and dynamic breaching are less common than in Okinawa and Amami, and reliable observation is difficult.
Still, it is an easy way to enjoy the local sea and participate in a nature experience.
Q. Can children participate in whale watching in Wakayama?
Many dolphin and whale watching tours in Wakayama are,Elementary school students and older can participate.Many of the plans are family-friendly and can be enjoyed with the whole family.
If small children are present, it is advisable to confirm in advance safety measures and the wearing of life jackets.
Parents and children can enjoy a nature experience and experience encounters with dolphins and small whales.
Q. Can I enjoy whale watching in Wakayama even if it rains?
If it is only a light rain, tours may be operated,Canceled in case of stormy weather or high wavesIt can be a
Be sure to check the weather and sea conditions before departure, and be prepared with rain gear and warm clothing.
To avoid the effects of rain and waves, it is safe to check the official information of the tour company before joining the tour.

 

summary

迫力満点なザトウクジラのブリーチ

There are spots in Wakayama where you can experience whale watching, but considering the scale and encounter rate,An authentic emotional experienceOkinawa and Amami are by far the best places to go if you are looking for the best of both worlds!

Especially in Okinawa and Amami in winter, many humpback whales migrate, and you can observe breaching and parent and calf whales up close, which is much more impressive.

It has good accessibility from the Kansai area,Combined with nature experience in WakayamaPlease go on an authentic whale watching trip!

↓Click here to read the article.

A.Kitano

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Flow of Reservation and Participation

  • 参加フロー

    Find a tour

    Find the tour you want to join based on the scene and time of day♪.

  • 参加フロー

    Reservation Plan Application

    Once you have decided on the plan you want to apply for, select the date and time and start the application process!

  • 参加フロー

    Reservation Confirmation

    Once your reservation is complete, you will be contacted by Whale Watching Tours.Â

  • 参加フロー

    Take a tour

    All that remains is to participate on the day of the event! Let's have fun to the fullest!

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Video of Whale Watching