Triathlon, Lifesaving, Beach Volleyball, and Sailing are sea and beach events of the 「WORLD MASTERS GAMES (WMG) 2021 KANSAI」, an international multi-sports event in which anyone above age 30 can participate. These events will be held in four prefectures in the Kansai region, namely Tokushima, Fukui, Hyogo, and Wakayama. These prefectures each have a different climate and environment which makes the destinations and local foods in each one unique. It is a great opportunity for WMG participants and spectators to enjoy sightseeing around the sea areas and experience the local taste.
Tokushima (Triathlon): Beautiful Sea Turtle Nesting Beach in Minami
The Ohama Beach in Minami, Tokushima, where the triathlon will be held, is the nesting beach for 70 sea turtles on average every year. Since research on sea turtles began there in the 1950s, the whole community has made efforts to protect the turtles. For the residents, sea turtle is an important symbol of their town.
There is no better place than Hiwasa Chelonian Museum Caretta to learn about sea turtles. In the museum, you can see rare sea turtle species and learn about the history of sea turtles which is deeply connected to the people of Minami.
Minami is also famous for fresh seafood such as Japanese spiny lobster, abalones, and sea urchin. So it is a great chance for WMG2021 participants to savor the sweetness and firm texture of freshly caught local seafood. You can also buy all sorts of fresh or live seafood at the market and look for nearby restaurants to cook them for you.
Fukui (Lifesaving): Wakasa Wada Beach of Takahama, Paradise for Sea Lovers
As Asia’s first beach which received Blue Flag international environmental certification, Wakasa Wada Beach is a breathtaking beach, highly deserving the certification and will be the venue for the WMG2021 Lifesaving competition. The beach has also been chosen as one of the best sunset locations in Japan, making it a romantic paradise in the evening.
Wakasa Pufferfish (Wakasa fugu) is the signature seafood in Fukui Prefecture. Wakasa fugu is a kind of Tiger Pufferfish that breeds in Wakasa Bay, which has lower water temperature due to melted ice. That means pufferfish which is usually available during cold weather can also be eaten in Fukui during May when WMG is being held. Besides the usual sashimi style and boiled Wakasa fugu, we also recommend the nitsuke (simmered) style which is a local favourite.
Hyogo (Beach Volleyball): Spots and Food for Rejuvenation in Minami Awaji City
Beach volleyball, which will take place at Minami Awaji, Hyogo, is a vigorous sport with exciting rallies. After the match, players might want to rest their feet at the foot spa in the city. The sodium bicarbonate spring of the foot bath is effective in recovery from muscle pain and fatigue.
The most iconic food of Awaji island (where Minami Awaji is located) is onion. The local onions are sweeter and softer than others, and became the symbol of the island. You can get a taste of them by trying local menu such as Awaji Hand-Stretched Somen Noodles which has onions as an ingredient. Onions improve blood circulation as well, which might help in your competition!
Wakayama (Sailing): Umeboshi and Tuna, The Standard Japanese Flavour
Wakayama City in Wakayama Prefecture is also famous for various marine products and is the venue for the WMG2021 sailing events. In the city, the tuna carving show in Kuroshio Market where a huge whole tuna is cut up is a popular attraction. After the show, you can also eat raw tuna on the spot. There are also many sushi and skewer shops in Wakayama where you can enjoy fresh tuna in various ways.
Another local specialty of Wakayama is umeboshi (preserved plum). The citric acid in umeboshi helps to recovery, so it makes a great snack for WMG2021 athletes. There is a wide range of umeboshi with different prices; some are extremely sour and salty, while others are sweetened with honey.
Enjoy the Sea and Japan In Your Own Way!
All 4 venues around the sea has their own uniqueness, be it sightseeing destinations or local food. This is a great opportunity for WMG participants to enjoy the event venue to the fullest with friends and family, so don’t miss out on it!
Please visit the official English homepage for more detailed information☞https://wmg2021.jp/en/
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