Choosing a Family-Friendly Lunch in Katsuura | Turn "Why Does the Yatagarasu Have Three Legs?" into a Fun Topic for Your Port-Town Family Trip

"Why Does It Have Three Legs?" — The Question Kids Always Ask

As you travel around Kumano, you'll often spot the figure of a black crow on amulets, information boards, and posters. This is the Yatagarasu, said to be the messenger of the Kumano deities. Look closely and you'll see it has three legs — so young children will inevitably ask, "Why does it have three legs?"

There isn't just one answer, but here are a few explanations that work well when sharing on the road:

• A messenger of the sun: An ancient Chinese legend tells of a three-legged crow living in the sun.
• Representing heaven, earth, and humanity: It is sometimes described as a being that connects heaven, earth, and people.
• A link to the three Kumano shrines: Some associate the three legs with the three sacred sites of Hongu, Hayatama, and Nachi.

It's a good idea to tell your kids, "There isn't just one right answer — there are many theories." In mythology, the Yatagarasu is also known as the "guiding deity," said to have led Emperor Jinmu from Kumano to Yamato. Introducing it as a guide for your own journey makes it easier for children to feel a connection.

Three Perspectives for Choosing a Family Lunch in Katsuura

After walking around Nachi Falls or the Daimon-zaka slope of the Kumano Kodo, kids' stomachs will be rumbling by lunchtime. That's when the port town of Katsuura, your base, really comes in handy. Here are three criteria to keep in mind.

1. Prioritize "a place to sit and wait"

During tourist seasons and weekends, restaurants can get crowded at lunchtime. When booking or making inquiries, check whether there are tatami rooms or table seating, and whether small plates for sharing with little ones are available. For specific opening hours and closed days, always check the latest information from each restaurant before visiting.

2. Have options for children who don't like raw food

Katsuura is famous for tuna, but some children may not enjoy raw fish. In that case, look for restaurants offering fried dishes, grilled items, noodles, or set meals other than rice bowls — that way, everyone in the family can enjoy their meal. The local Katsuura Tantan-men (spicy noodles) is also a dish that makes for a memorable travel story. If you're curious about the flavor, do a bit of research in advance.

3. Build it into your travel flow

On a family trip, balancing "walking time" and "eating time" is key. Decide the day before whether you'll finish Nachi Falls and shrine visits in the morning and have an early lunch, or whether you'll head back to the station or port area for a leisurely meal — this will save you from scrambling on the day.

After Lunch, Take a Port Walk and Go on a "Crow Hunt"

After lunch, take a short stroll around the port or station area. In Kumano, Yatagarasu motifs appear on amulets, logos, and in various other places. Turn it into a game: "How many three-legged crows can we find?" Even in the drowsy post-meal afternoon, your kids will stay engaged and enjoy walking.

Summary

When choosing a family lunch in Katsuura, keeping three points in mind — "somewhere to sit," "options to choose from," and "easy access along your route" — will help you avoid missteps. Add in the story of the Yatagarasu's three legs, and mealtime becomes a doorway into learning about Kumano. Double-check the detailed business information in advance, and enjoy the flavors of the port town at your family's own pace.

Image: マグロ丼 (via (公社)和歌山県観光連盟)