How to Get to Hotel Urashima | From Kii-Katsuura Station to Katsuura Port, A Ferry-Access Inn

The Basics of Getting to Hotel Urashima: "By Boat from Katsuura Port"

"Hotel Urashima," standing on the seaside of Nachikatsuura, is an inn located on a peninsula across from Katsuura Port. First-time visitors who search for "how to get to Hotel Urashima" are often surprised to learn that access requires boarding a boat from the port. Even before you arrive at the inn, the scenery of your journey has already begun.

It's a short boat ride, but the views of the port town and the colors of the sea from the deck are memorable enough to count as a sightseeing experience in themselves. We recommend giving yourself plenty of time before check-in and heading over with the intention of enjoying the journey itself.

By Train | Walking from Kii-Katsuura Station to the Port

If you're coming by rail, Kii-Katsuura Station on the JR Kisei Main Line is the nearest gateway. The walk from the station to Katsuura Port is close enough to let you soak in the atmosphere of a port town, passing fishing-harbor scenery and local shops along the way.

A Few Tips Before You Set Off

• Be mindful of the walking distance with large luggage and try to pack as compactly as possible
• The route to the port runs mostly through flat town streets, so everyday shoes are fine
• On rainy days, keep an umbrella or rain gear easily accessible

Many travelers head straight over after stepping off limited express trains from Osaka or Nagoya, making the transfer after arrival smooth.

By Car | Plan First for "What to Do After Reaching the Port"

For car travelers too, the basic idea is to head toward the area around Katsuura Port. What's important here is to check in advance with the inn about parking locations, guidance, and how your luggage will be handled. Conditions can change depending on the season or situation, so it's reassuring to confirm the official information when you book or before departure.

The Kumano area has long stretches of mountain roads and coastal routes, and it may take longer than your map app estimates. Allowing extra time in your plan also creates mental breathing room before boarding the boat.

Three Things to Check Before You Leave

1. Boat schedules and boarding point information: Always check the latest guidance from the inn for departure times and boarding locations.
2. Notifying your arrival time: If you're likely to be late, let the inn know as early as possible for peace of mind.
3. Return transportation: Work backwards from your limited express train's departure time to decide when to head back to the port.

Specific details such as fares and operating information are subject to change, so they are not covered in this article. Please check the latest information yourself.

Enjoying Your Stay After Arrival

Across the water awaits time in hot springs where you can feel the sea right beside you. After a day walking the Kumano Kodo or visiting Nachi Falls, soaking in the baths while listening to the sound of waves is a luxury unique to Katsuura.

The next morning, gaze at the morning sea from the boat heading back toward the port, then set off for your next destination. Knowing how to get there reduces travel anxiety and creates the breathing room to slowly savor the port town scenery.

Summary

The route to Hotel Urashima centers on going from Kii-Katsuura Station to Katsuura Port, then crossing to the inn by boat. Whether you come by train or car, thinking ahead about what to do once you reach the port will let you proceed calmly without rushing. Enjoy a stay that feels distinctly Nachikatsuura, boat journey and all.

Image: 那智勝浦町 (via (公社)和歌山県観光連盟)