Saikazaki Fishing Port
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Saikazaki Fishing Port

4.1
·816 reviews·Wakayama, Japan

A picturesque fishing port known as 'Japan's Amalfi,' offering a vibrant fish market and stunning coastal views from its lighthouse.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

1 PM - 3 PM

Secure the freshest catch

CrowdMedium
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Saikazaki Fishing Port

Saikazaki Fishing Port

Best Time

1 PM - 3 PM

Secure the freshest catch

CrowdMedium
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

A picturesque fishing port known as 'Japan's Amalfi,' offering a vibrant fish market and stunning coastal views from its lighthouse.

4.1
(816 reviews)

"Experience the freshest seafood and breathtaking views at this charming Japanese coastal gem."

Vertical photo
TIP

🎯 Arrive Early for Fish Market

Beat the crowds and get the best selection by arriving around 1 PM, even though the market officially starts at 3 PM.

📸 Capture Coastal Views

The Saikazaki Lighthouse offers stunning panoramic views of the bay and surrounding islands.

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Saikazaki Fish Market

Saikazaki Fish Market

Saikazaki Fishing Port

Experience a lively fish auction and select your fresh catch for a delicious meal. Arrive early for the best selection!

TikTok
Saikazaki Lighthouse

Saikazaki Lighthouse

Hilltop overlooking the port

Panoramic views of Wakayama Bay, Futago Island, and the distant Wakanoura coast. A perfect photo spot.

Instagram
Coastal Townscape

Coastal Townscape

Surrounding hills of the fishing port

Charming houses clinging to the hillsides create a scenic vista, often compared to the Amalfi Coast.

Instagram
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Planning Your Visit

Timing is Everything at the Fish Market

While the Saikazaki Fish Market is often listed as starting at 3 PM, the real action begins much earlier. Arrive around 1 PM to select your desired catch, which sellers will set aside. You can only pay and collect your fish from 3 PM onwards, but by then, the best options are often gone. Reddit

Embrace the 'Japan's Amalfi' Vibe

Saikazaki Fishing Port is lauded as 'Japan's Amalfi' for its picturesque houses cascading down the hillsides behind the port. While it offers stunning coastal views, manage expectations and enjoy the unique charm without direct comparisons. InstagramReddit

Best Times

When
1 PM - 3 PM
Why
Secure the freshest catch
Crowd
Medium
When
Late Afternoon
Why
Golden hour for photos
Crowd
Low

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

Wakayama Fish Auction #PR #TikTok #ConnectbyTourism #和歌山 #逢井漁港
@bayashi.tiktok
56.9K likes • 1.1M views

🎯 Arrive Early for Fish Market

Beat the crowds and get the best selection by arriving around 1 PM, even though the market officially starts at 3 PM. Reddit

📸 Capture Coastal Views

The Saikazaki Lighthouse offers stunning panoramic views of the bay and surrounding islands. Instagram

#japan #japantravel #fish #fyp
@magtraktcg
24.7K likes • 147.5K views
📍うみまち食堂 うらら┊🍊和歌山県 雑賀崎┊海鮮和食 ꕥ ┈┄┈┄┈┄┈┄┈𝗝𝗔𝗣𝗔𝗡𝗘𝗦𝗘┄┈┄┈┄┈┄┈┄┈ ꕥ 雑賀崎漁港すぐそば! “うみまち食堂 うらら”🐟 久しぶりに訪れた、うみまち食堂 うららさん! オープン当初に伺って以来だったのですが、 ランチの内容がガラッと変わっていてビックリ✨ 以前は小鉢がたくさん並ぶスタイルだったけど、 今回は、お寿司メインのコース仕立てに🐟 まずは前菜からスタート! もずくやホタルイカなど、旬の海の幸がずらり✨ 特にうすえんどう豆のゼリーがプルプルで絶品!😆 続いて茶碗蒸し! 子供の頃は良さがわからなかったけど、 最近になってその美味しさに気づきました…❤️‍🔥 ふんわり優しい味わいで、ほっと一息🥹 そしてメインのお寿司が登場🍣 オーナーの漁師さんやお父様、 漁港仲間が釣った新鮮な魚を使用🐟 中でも印毛でお醤油を塗るスタイルが特徴的で、...
gourmetushi
186 likes • 11.4K views

🚗 Easy Access by Bus

The port is accessible via the Wakayama Bus 'Saikazaki' stop, about an 8-minute walk away. Reddit

🍣 Fresh Seafood Delights

Enjoy incredibly fresh seafood, with many local restaurants offering delicious preparations. Instagram

「雑賀崎灯台」⛵️雑賀崎の丘の上に建つ灯台から撮影しました(2024.05.29撮影📸) 灯台の上からは和歌山湾の綺麗な青い海、双子島や遠くに淡路島が見えます🏝️雑賀崎漁港からも近いのでオススメです😊 📍 〒641-0062 和歌山県和歌山市雑賀崎809−2 🔹#雑賀崎灯台 🔸#saikazakilighthouse "Saikazaki Lighthouse" ⛵️⚓️Photographed from the lighthouse on top of the hill of Saikazaki (taken on 2024.05.29📸) From the top of the lighthouse, you can see the beautiful blue sea of ​​Wakayama Bay, Futagojima Island, and Awaji Isla...
katsuo0525
140 likes • 1K views

Tips

from all over the internet

🎯 Arrive Early for Fish Market

Beat the crowds and get the best selection by arriving around 1 PM, even though the market officially starts at 3 PM. Reddit

📸 Capture Coastal Views

The Saikazaki Lighthouse offers stunning panoramic views of the bay and surrounding islands. Instagram

🚗 Easy Access by Bus

The port is accessible via the Wakayama Bus 'Saikazaki' stop, about an 8-minute walk away. Reddit

🍣 Fresh Seafood Delights

Enjoy incredibly fresh seafood, with many local restaurants offering delicious preparations. Instagram

What Travellers Say

4.1
(816 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Saikazaki Fishing Port is celebrated for its authentic fish market experience and picturesque coastal scenery, often dubbed 'Japan's Amalfi.' Visitors praise the incredibly fresh seafood and the charming hillside townscape. However, some note that arriving late to the market means limited choices, and managing expectations regarding the 'Amalfi' comparison is advised.

"A very interesting and popular fish market not far from Wakayama city.

A lot of websites mention it starts at 3pm but actually what it means is that the fishing boat and buying people are gathering there as early as around 1pm. You can choose what they like to buy and the seller will put them aside for you and give you a number card, with which you can find your fish afterwards. You cannot pay and get your fish until 3pm, when the market "officially" starts.

So if you want to get something good, make sure to go there early. At 3pm almost everything are already sold or being put aside, and there won't be much choice left for you. Hope it helps :)"

Weinan Liu

"Lovely place"

AMN

"Good seafood"

David John

What People Like

Fresh seafood market
Scenic coastal views
Charming townscape

What People Dislike

Limited choice if late
Amalfi comparison

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

You can reach Saikazaki Fishing Port by taking the Wakayama Bus to the 'Saikazaki' stop, which is about an 8-minute walk from the port. Reddit This makes it a convenient destination from Wakayama city. TikTok

No, Saikazaki Fishing Port is located not far from Wakayama city, making it an accessible day trip or half-day excursion. Reddit

The primary public transport option is the Wakayama Bus. Driving is also an option, with parking available near the port. Instagram

Yes, the port area is very walkable. You can explore the market, the surrounding streets, and the path leading up to the lighthouse. Instagram

Absolutely! Saikazaki Fishing Port is a perfect destination for a day trip from Wakayama city, offering unique experiences like the fish market and scenic views. TikTok

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

Entry to Saikazaki Fishing Port itself is free. However, if you plan to purchase fish at the market, you will pay for your selected items. Reddit

While the market officially starts at 3 PM, it's best to arrive around 1 PM to select your fish, as they are set aside for you. The actual buying and selling happens from 3 PM onwards. Reddit

There is no entrance fee mentioned for visiting the Saikazaki Lighthouse area, allowing visitors to enjoy the views freely. Instagram

Reservations are not required for visiting the fish market. It operates on a first-come, first-served basis for selection, with payment later. Reddit

To avoid the busiest times at the fish market, aim for weekdays outside of peak lunch hours. The lighthouse area is generally less crowded. Instagram

🎫 🎣 Onsite Experience

You can experience a lively fish auction, purchase incredibly fresh seafood, enjoy scenic coastal views from the lighthouse, and explore the charming townscape. TikTokInstagram+1

The comparison comes from the picturesque houses built on the hillsides overlooking the fishing port, creating a beautiful, tiered landscape reminiscent of Italy's Amalfi Coast. Instagram+1

While the port is active with fishing boats, visitors are often seen enjoying recreational fishing in the calm waters. Reddit

You can find a wide variety of fresh seafood, including fish, shellfish, and other catches of the day, directly from the fishermen. Instagram

Yes, the Saikazaki Lighthouse offers stunning panoramic views, and the unique hillside townscape provides excellent photographic subjects. Instagram+1

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

Several restaurants are located near the fishing port, offering dishes made with the day's catch. 'Umimachi Shokudo Urara' is a popular spot mentioned for its fresh seafood. Instagram

While you can buy fresh fish at the market, most visitors purchase it to be prepared at local restaurants or take it back to their accommodation if facilities allow. TikTok

Dishes featuring the freshest catch of the day are highly recommended. Look for seasonal fish preparations and local specialties. Instagram

While the focus is on seafood, some local eateries might offer side dishes or other options. It's best to inquire directly at the restaurant. Instagram

Prices can vary depending on the catch and season, but one TikTok user mentioned buying a significant amount of fish for around $400. TikTok It's generally considered good value for fresh seafood. Reddit

📸 📸 Photography

The Saikazaki Lighthouse provides breathtaking panoramic views of the bay and islands. The unique hillside townscape is also a prime subject. Instagram+1

Late afternoon, especially during the golden hour, offers beautiful lighting for both the coastal scenery and the townscape. Instagram

Capturing the fishing boats, the bustling market activity (if you arrive early enough), and the daily life of the port can make for compelling photos. TikTok+1

A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the expansive coastal views and townscape. A telephoto lens can be useful for details of the fishing boats. Instagram

Photography is generally allowed in public areas of the port. Be mindful of the auction participants and avoid intrusive photography. TikTok

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Saikazaki Fishing Port offers a unique and engaging experience for families. The fish market, while busy, can be an exciting place for children to see a variety of fresh seafood and witness the lively atmosphere. TikTok Arriving early allows for a less overwhelming experience. The calm waters of the port are also a great spot for families to try some recreational fishing, providing a fun activity for all ages. Reddit

Beyond the market, the scenic views from the Saikazaki Lighthouse are captivating for everyone. The picturesque townscape, often compared to the Amalfi Coast, provides a beautiful backdrop for family photos. Instagram Consider visiting a local restaurant for a fresh seafood meal, which can be a delightful culinary adventure for kids. The overall atmosphere is relaxed and offers a glimpse into authentic Japanese coastal life. TikTok

📸 Photography Enthusiasts

For photographers, Saikazaki Fishing Port is a treasure trove of visual opportunities. The Saikazaki Lighthouse is a must-visit for its stunning panoramic views of Wakayama Bay and the surrounding islands. Instagram Capture the dramatic coastline and the vibrant blue sea, especially during the golden hour for dramatic lighting. The hillside townscape, with houses cascading down towards the port, offers a unique perspective often likened to the Amalfi Coast and makes for compelling architectural and landscape shots. Instagram+1

Don't miss the bustling fish market in the morning for dynamic shots of local life and the day's catch. TikTok The working fishing port itself, with its boats and nets, provides authentic maritime scenes. Experiment with different angles and times of day to capture the port's evolving character, from the morning's activity to the serene evening light. Instagram

🍣 Seafood Lovers

Saikazaki Fishing Port is a paradise for anyone who loves fresh seafood. The main draw is the vibrant fish market, where you can witness the auction and select your own incredibly fresh catch. TikTok Arriving early is key to getting the best selection, ensuring you can choose from the day's finest offerings. Reddit Many local restaurants, like 'Umimachi Shokudo Urara,' specialize in preparing this fresh seafood, offering dishes that highlight the natural flavors of the ocean. Instagram

Beyond the market, the port itself is surrounded by eateries that pride themselves on serving the freshest possible ingredients. Whether you're looking for grilled fish, sashimi, or local seafood specialties, you're likely to find delicious options. The experience of eating seafood caught just hours before is unparalleled. Instagram

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The Saikazaki Fish Market Experience

The Saikazaki Fish Market is a highlight for many visitors, offering a genuine glimpse into local fishing culture. While the official start time is 3 PM, the real strategy for securing the freshest and best catch involves arriving much earlier, around 1 PM. Reddit This is when fishermen and buyers begin to gather, and you can select your preferred seafood. Sellers will set your chosen items aside, providing you with a number card for later payment and collection. TikTok This early arrival ensures you have a wider selection before the market officially opens and the most sought-after items are gone. Reddit

Beyond the auction, the market area itself is a vibrant hub. You can observe the daily operations of a working fishing port and interact with local vendors. Many visitors enjoy purchasing their selected seafood and having it prepared at nearby restaurants, such as 'Umimachi Shokudo Urara,' for an incredibly fresh meal. Instagram The experience is not just about the food but also about immersing yourself in the authentic atmosphere of a Japanese fishing community. TikTok

Saikazaki's 'Amalfi Coast' Charm

Saikazaki Fishing Port has earned the nickname 'Japan's Amalfi Coast' due to its distinctive and picturesque scenery. The charm lies in the houses that are built along the steep hillsides overlooking the fishing port, creating a visually stunning, tiered landscape. Instagram This unique arrangement of homes against the backdrop of the blue sea and sky evokes comparisons to the famous Italian coastline. Instagram

While the comparison is flattering, it's best to appreciate Saikazaki for its own unique beauty. The area around Wakaura, to the southwest of Wakayama City, is historically significant and known for its scenic spots. Reddit Saikazaki, situated on a cape, offers a serene and beautiful port town atmosphere. Visitors often find joy in the simple beauty of the townscape, the calm sea, and the families enjoying leisure activities like fishing. Reddit It's a place where natural beauty meets the charm of a traditional Japanese coastal community. Instagram

Exploring the Saikazaki Lighthouse

Perched atop a hill overlooking the fishing port, the Saikazaki Lighthouse offers one of the most rewarding panoramic views in the area. Instagram From this vantage point, visitors are treated to sweeping vistas of the beautiful blue Wakayama Bay, the distinctive Futago Island, and the distant Wakanoura coast. Instagram The lighthouse itself is a landmark, and the climb to its vicinity is well worth the effort for the expansive scenery. Instagram

The lighthouse area is also a fantastic spot for photography, especially during the late afternoon when the light casts a warm glow over the landscape. Instagram It provides an excellent opportunity to capture the essence of Saikazaki, from the bustling port below to the serene ocean stretching towards the horizon. Instagram The accessibility of the lighthouse, with a short walk from the bus stop, makes it an easy addition to any visit to the fishing port. Reddit

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