Wakayama Prefecture Hidakagawa has a Humid subtropical climate (Köppen Cfa) characterized by warm summers and cool winters with light to no snowfall.

The area of the modern town of Hidakagawa was within ancient Kii Province, and was the location of Tedori Castle during the Sengoku period.

Hidakagawa has a mayor-council form of government with a directly elected mayor and a unicameral city council of 12 members.

Hidakagawa collectively with the other municipalities of Hidaka District, contributes three members to the Wakayama Prefectural Assembly.

In terms of national politics, the town is part of Wakayama 3rd district of the lower house of the Diet of Japan.