Kumano Kodo is an ancient network of pilgrimage trails leading to the three grand shrines of Kumano: Hongu Taisha, Hayatama Taisha, and Nachi Taisha. Photographer Nobuko Shiga walked along the Nakahe-ji Route from Tanabe and these are her pictures.

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Minabe boasts Japan's largest plum tree groves. The trees cover the mountain slopes and a sweet aroma prevails.

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Wakayama Castle was originally built in 1585 by Toyotomi Hidenaga upon the order of elder brother Hideyoshi. The construction was directed by renown castle architect Lord Todo Takatora, native of Omi (Shiga Prefecture). In 1600, Lord Asano Yoshinaga was awarded the castle for his service during the Battle of Sekigahara. In 1619, Tokugawa Yorinobu, Ieyasu's 10th son, became the castle lord establishing the Kii clan, one of three key Tokugawa Gosanke clans (along with Owari and Mito). The castle tower and turrets were reconstructed in 1958. The surrounding area is noted for cherry blossoms in April.

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