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One-Day Train Trip to Kada on the “Medetai Train”
Kids were super excited! A family train adventure aboard the “Medetai Train” from Nanki Kada Line to Kada
Wakayama Prefecture’s Kada offers plenty of sightseeing spots! You can explore an uninhabited island with an anime-like world setting, stroll in ocean-view parks, and eat delicious local treats—perfect for a family outing.
This time we used the “Kada Sightseeing Ticket” and boarded the brand-new “Medetai Train Kanata,” launched in July 2024 by Nankai Electric Railway. Join us as we explore a full day of recommended destinations that delight both kids and adults.
A Family Adventure on the “Medetai Train Kanata”
You might wonder, “Is there a place where even a one-day trip with kids still feels like a proper vacation?” Kada is exactly that. With its expansive blue sea and open sky, this charming harbor town exudes a relaxed vibe, ideal for families. It’s also conveniently accessible—just about 30 minutes by train from Nankai Wakayama City Station. Now—let’s head off aboard the sightseeing train that connects Wakayama City Station and Kada Station: the “Medetai Train”!
9:00 – Ride the Medetai Train to Kada
The “Medetai Train” running on the Kada Fish Line drew attention for its vivid design and storytelling concept. With five distinct themed interiors, today we ride the July 2024 debut model: “Medetai Train Kanata.”
Each car of “Kanata” has its own character and world view. One car, themed “Memories of Ancient Times,” features murals of ancient creatures like the Wakayama Dragon fossils discovered locally—like riding through a prehistoric marine aquarium.
Another car, themed “Thoughts Toward the Future,” has a rainbow pathway painted on the floor to evoke the sky. Just sitting inside brings a feel-good sense of bliss. Art installations throughout make the car feel like a rolling gallery.
Kada itself is a small historic port town featured in both the Kojiki and Nihon Shoki. Its old wooden houses and maze-like lanes invite a stroll—it feels like stepping into an alternate reality!
10:00 – Snack Break at Kojima Ichishōten for Mugwort Mochi
Next, we stop at “Kojima Ichishōten” for a taste of their famed mugwort mochi. Famous from the anime/manga Summer Time Rendering, these beauties are made with hand-pounded glutinous rice and natural mugwort. Even if left for hours, they stay soft and chewy with just the right level of red bean sweetness and fragrant mugwort flavor.
Info – Kojima Ichishōten
Hours: 8:30 until sold out. Irregular holidays
Address: 425 Kada, Wakayama City, Wakayama Prefecture
Show your “Kada Sightseeing Ticket” for a ¥50 discount on a pack of five mugwort daifuku!
11:00 – View the Pier Scenery at Tomoshima Ferry Dock
Nearby is the famous Tomoshima Ferry Pier—an atmospheric scene reminiscent of an anime world. We skip the island itself this time, but the pier view alone brings that vacation magic.
A short walk leads to Kada’s blue coastline. Kada is the terminus of the “Pacific Coast Cycling Route,” spanning some 1,400 km from Chiba Prefecture’s Chōshi City. Don’t forget to take a photo at the monument!
About 300 meters north along the shore is the “Kada Grand Breakwater” (Kada Port No. 1 Breakwater), where many anglers fish. “Next time, let’s go fishing?” you might muse as you plan the next trip while enjoying the seascape.
12:00 – Visit Awashima Shrine
Just beside the Kada coast lies Awashima Shrine, popular especially among women. The shrine houses around 20,000 dolls—an awe‑inspiring sight. Every March 3rd, it holds a “Hina Doll Festival” praying for children’s healthy growth.
Locals affectionately call it “A Washi-ma oh-sensei,” filled with all kinds of dolls, including frog families!
Info – Awashima Shrine
Open: 9:00–17:00 every day
Address: 118 Kada, Wakayama City, Wakayama Prefecture
13:00 – Relax at Kada Awashima Onsen “Oosakaya Hii Na no Yu”
After enjoying sea views and exploring town, unwind at hot springs. “Kada Awashima Onsen Oosakaya Hii Na no Yu” is known for its seafood cuisine and open-air oceanside baths with views of the Kitan Strait, plus private family baths.
For a truly private soak, consider a rental bath!
Info – Oosakaya Hii Na no Yu
Public onsen hours: 11:00–19:00 (entry restricted during peak times; irregular holidays)
Address: 142 Kada, Wakayama City
Present your “Kada Sightseeing Ticket” to receive a discount on admission!
16:00 – Grab a Taiyaki Souvenir at Medetai Taiyaki Hachiman-mae Shop
Before returning from Kada Station, make a stop at Medetai Taiyaki Hachiman-mae if you want a souvenir unique to the Kada Line. They serve taiyaki shaped just like the train’s mascot logo—adorably round, with crispy batter and filling options like homemade chunky azuki red bean or custard. Delicious and memorable!
Info – Medetai Taiyaki Hachiman‑mae
Hours: 10:00–17:00, closed Mondays (opens Monday if it’s a holiday)
Address: 434‑2 Furuya, Wakayama City, Wakayama Prefecture
Use the Affordable “Kada Sightseeing Ticket”!
From ocean views and hot springs to tasty local treats, Kada makes for a fun and fulfilling one-day escape. Along the way you’ll discover charming shops and warm smiles, and each visit makes you want to return.
Take advantage of the “Kada Sightseeing Ticket”—a bargain combo of round-trip fares between sales stations and Wakayama City, plus unlimited rides from Wakayama City to Kada!
With the sightseeing ticket, enjoy exclusive discounts at partner shops and facilities too. This weekend, how about taking the family for a day trip to Kada?
