Meet your guide and head to the old castle town of Kii-Tanabe, a place where life moves at a slower, more human pace. Here, narrow alleys glow softly under paper lanterns, and the aroma of charcoal-grilled skewers drifts through the evening air.

Go beyond the main streets, into the heart of Tanabe’s lively yet intimate bar scene. In these small, family-run izakaya, each plate tells a story of the region: sashimi caught that morning from the nearby Tanabe Bay, pickled plums and citrus harvested from mountain orchards, and grilled Kumano beef seasoned with salt from the sea.

The drinks are as local as the food—smooth Wakayama sake brewed from clear spring water, shochu infused with fragrant ume, or crisp craft beer from Voyager Brewing, Tanabe’s pride and a symbol of its creative spirit.

As the night unfolds, share laughter with regulars, exchange toasts with the chef, and begin to feel the quiet warmth that defines this town. The people of Tanabe welcome travelers not as customers, but as temporary locals—inviting you to join in the rhythm of their evening. By the end of the night, understand why this humble town, between sea and mountain, has a flavor all its own.