Wakayamas

Wakayamas are residents of Wakayama Prefecture, a prefecture in the Kansai region of Japan. In English, the plural form “Wakayamas” is uncommon; the usual terms are “Wakayama residents” or “people from Wakayama.” The Japanese demonym is Wakayama-jin.

Geography and demographics: The prefecture covers the southern part of the Kii Peninsula on the Pacific coast. It borders Osaka Prefecture to the north, Nara to the northeast, Mie to the east, and faces the Pacific to the south. The coastline features numerous bays and inlets, and the interior includes forested mountains such as the Kii Mountain Range. The population has been gradually declining and aging, as in many regional areas of Japan.

History and culture: The Kumano region in southern Wakayama is renowned for the Kumano Sanzan shrines and the Kumano Kodo pilgrimage routes, which are recognized as UNESCO World Heritage sites. The area has long been a center of Shinto and Buddhist pilgrimage, forestry, and fishing. Modern Wakayama City serves as the capital and economic hub; Shirahama and other coastal towns are known for hot springs and resort tourism.

Economy: The economy combines agriculture (with notable fruit production), forestry, and fisheries, alongside a growing tourism sector tied to nature, hot springs, and cultural heritage.

See also: Wakayama Prefecture.