Wakayama, known for its beach resorts and hot springs, is also one of Japan’s premier leather-making regions. Follow the coastline to savor “Kinokuni Leather.”
Wakayama, one of Japan's four major leather-producing regions, boasts over 400 years of leather-making history and tradition. Japan Leather shops dot the resorts and central areas throughout the prefecture. Traveling along the coastline, savor Wakayama's unique leather goods—perfect companions for sunshine, sea breezes, and denim.
Shirahama Station offers convenient car and bicycle rentals. Local buses run to destinations like the market, hot springs, aquarium, and Adventure World, and free passes are available for added convenience.

“We want to establish a ‘Shirahama Leather Brand’ nurtured by this town—one that blends into the rich natural surroundings, yet makes a statement alongside its handles.” A collection imbued with this passionate vision is on display.

The shop, with its charming European-inspired exterior, houses an atelier. It offers premium items for discerning adults who appreciate authenticity, along with custom orders.

Atelier CHOUETTE D'OR
https://chouettedor.jp/
Open Thursday–Monday 10:00 AM–7:00 PM
Closed Wednesdays
Stroll through the seaside town, feeling the pleasant sea breeze wash over you. As you enjoy the leisurely pace of time, you arrive at Senjojiki. You can also rent bicycles or cars at Shirahama Station.

Against the backdrop of the Pacific Ocean, vast white rock formations have been eroded by relentless waves over countless years, forming the unique landscape seen today. The scene resembles a thousand tatami mats laid out of rock—a work of art created by Mother Nature.

Senjojiki
https://www.nankishirahama.jp/spot/531/
2927-72 Shirahama-cho, Nishimuro District, Wakayama Prefecture
Admission: Free.
Take the JR Kisei Main Line to Kii-Tanabe Station and head to the Hourai-cho area. Across from the station, you'll find cafes and banh mi specialty shops—perfect for lunch or tea time.

Featuring slippers and sandals designed with both enveloping comfort and open-toed freedom in mind, this collection offers sophisticated casual footwear for adults. Enjoy them effortlessly year-round.

Not just shoes and bags, but also wallets, pouches, and leather accessories. The simple-design belts are unisex and have a slightly rugged appeal. Perfect as gifts for someone special.

tomorka
https://tomorka.thebase.in/
21-5 Hōrai-chō, Tanabe City, Wakayama Prefecture
Monday–Friday: 12:00 PM–5:00 PM / Saturday, Sunday, Holidays: 12:00 PM–6:00 PM
Irregular holidays
Take the JR Kisei Main Line from Kii-Tanabe Station to Kainan Station. Transfer to a route bus and then a community bus to travel to Oishi Highlands. Please note that the community bus runs only a few times a day, so service is very limited.

Ikusei Highlands Prefectural Natural Park is located at the summit area at an elevation of 870 meters. On clear days, you can see as far as the Rokko Mountains, Awaji Island, and Shikoku. The best time to see the annual pampas grass blooms is from early October to mid-November.

Oishi Kogen
https://www.town.aridagawa.lg.jp/top/kakuka/kanaya/9/2/keikan/1005.html
899-29 Nakata, Kimino-cho, Kaijo-gun, Wakayama Prefecture
Open 9:30 AM to 4:30 PM
Closed during the New Year holidays
Return from Ikusei Highlands to Kainan Station, then take the JR Kisei Main Line to Wakayama Station. Head toward the road commonly known as Kokutai Road to arrive at “jillcraft” (about a 10-minute walk). Taking a taxi from the station entrance is the smoothest option.

Each leather product is meticulously handcrafted using domestic leather and other materials. While bags and wallets are staples, the sommelier badge holder (leather) stands out as a niche item.

jillcraft, themed around “imagining the act of imagining.” Popular for craftsmanship that responds to requests ranging from fully custom-made to semi-custom pieces, not just original designs.

jillcraft
https://jillcraft2014.com/
4-123 Tanaka-cho, Wakayama City, Wakayama Prefecture
Open Thursday–Monday 11:00 AM–7:00 PM
Closed Tuesday and Wednesday