A town with a rocket, Space Town Kushimoto / Nachikatsuura Town

Welcome to a town where you can experience nature and the cosmos. It's a place everyone should visit at least once in their lifetime.

The towns of Kushimoto and Nachikatsuura in Wakayama Prefecture are popular tourist destinations where visitors can experience dynamic nature, including World Heritage Sites. In recent years, not only Japanese people, but also many international visitors have been coming.

With the start of rocket launch viewings from Spaceport Kii, Asia's first private launch site, the area is transforming into a world-class resort destination. Visitors can enjoy great nature, history, hot springs, and fresh gourmet cuisine.

Come experience a town where two distinct charms intersect: learning and entertainment, history and the future, relaxation and excitement.

About Spaceport Kii

① Watch the video to learn about the launch and local tourism.

②Read the official guide

Constructed in December 2021, Spaceport Kii is a rocket launch site in Kushimoto Town, Wakayama Prefecture.

Operated by the private company SPACEONE Co.Ltd., Spaceport Kii provides space transportation services using the small rocket "Kairos" to deliver satellites into space. It is Japan's third rocket launch site and the first in Asia to be operated by a private company.

The first launch occurred in March 2024, and there are plans to launch 20 times per year throughout the 2020s.

Official Launch & Viewing Information

Support Kairos! Recommended by locals (limited time tourist benefits available)

Welcome, to the city that you must visit at least once in your life for an experience of nature and the universe.

Located at the southernmost tip of Japan's Honshu Island, this region is Honshu's only subtropical area. Boasting the world's northernmost coral reefs and a rich variety of fish species, it is one of Japan's premier diving spots. The area is also dotted with unique rock formations, such as the "Hashikui Rocks", which are designated as a National Natural Monument.

Sightseeing and marine activities and experiences in Kushimoto

About Spaceport Kii

The deep, rugged, mountainous region has been revered as a sacred place for over 1,000 years. The Kumano Kodo World Heritage pilgrimage routes and Japan's Three Great Waterfalls, including "Nachi Falls", attract visitors from around the world.

Nachikatsuura World Heritage/ Experiences/Model Courses

①Tune in to the launch commentary and regional tourism introduction video.

②Read the official guidebook

other rocket-related information

Nearby Information

Tourism

Blessed by the Kuroshio Current, the natural harbor boasts an abundance of seafood and produce from the deep mountains. Chefs specializing in Japanese, Western, Chinese, and other ethnic cuisines gather here in search of the freshest ingredients.

Enjoy Japan's largest catch of fresh tuna, along with rare seafood like spiny lobster and grouper.

Kushimoto Gourmet / Nachikatsuura Gourmet

From ocean views voted the best in Japan to cave hot springs, Wakayama Prefecture's largest hot spring resort boasts the most natural springs. New hotel concepts, including luxurious traditional Japanese-style inns, are also becoming popular.


Choose the lodging that fits your lifestyle, from campgrounds to Airbnb, guesthouses, ryokans, and hotels.

Kushimoto Hot Springs / Accommodations

Nachikatsuura Hot Springs / Accommodations

Nearby Areas - Latest Updates

It is conveniently located for access from both Tokyo International Airport (Haneda Airport) and Kansai International Airport.

From Tokyo:

Haneda Airport to Nanki-Shirahama Airport by airplane takes approximately one hour.

From Nanki-Shirahama Airport, take the limousine bus to Kushimoto Station. The ride takes approximately one hour.

From Nanki-Shirahama Airport, take the limousine bus to Kii-Katsuura Station (approx. 2 hours).

From Osaka:

Kansai Airport Station to Kushimoto Station by train: approx. 3 hours

From Kansai Airport Station to Kii-Katsuura Station: Train, approx. 4 hours

Hot Spring ・ Accomodation

Click here to see a large map

Nearby Areas Latest News

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