Exploring Kochi, Japan: Must-see Attractions and Recommended Activities

Kochi, Japan is a breathtaking destination known for its lesser-visited regions, stunning temples, traditional Japanese experiences, and natural beauty. This guide will help you plan an unforgettable trip to the region, packed with adventures that can keep you entertained for over a week!

Breaking down Kochi:

Kochi Prefecture can be divided into four main areas: North, Central, City, and South. To navigate this guide more smoothly, we'll explore each region separately.

Kochi City:

The heart of the region, Kochi City is a compact and walkable destination showcasing numerous highlights. Some must-visit attractions include:

Kochi Castle - A unique Edo-period castle with an intriguing history that you can explore.
Kochi Castle Museum of History - Adjacent to the castle, the museum showcases the prefecture's history and Tosa rule.
Yosakoi Dance Centre (and Festival) - During August, the city comes alive with dance performances celebrating a local tradition dating back to 1954. For year-round information, there's a newly opened museum.
Sunday Market - A vibrant local market where you can try delicious street food like fried sweet potato snacks.
Hirome Market - The hub of Kochi City's evening activity, offering regional and national dishes in both casual and table service settings.
Chikurinji Temple - A stunning temple housing part of the 88-temple pilgrimage route, with a peaceful park setting and a five-tier pagoda.
Makino Botanical Gardens - Located near the temple, a perfect place to unwind before departing from Kochi Airport.

Kochi Prefecture - North

Kochi's northern region is characterized by its primarily agricultural landscape, striking rock formations, and therapeutic resorts. Some notable attractions include:

Ioki Cave - A hidden gem nestled alongside a road, offering short hikes filled with waterfalls, bamboo trees, and lush vegetation.
Utoco Deep Sea Therapy Centre and Spa - One of the most relaxing spots I've ever came across, this resort boasts beautiful views, incredible spa facilities, and wellness activities.
Muroto Global Geopark - A UNESCO-listed geopark with unique coastal views, best explored on foot or by bike.
Hotsumisakiji Temple - Another temple on the 88-temple pilgrimage route, offering breathtaking views over the ocean and Muroto Geopark.
Sea House Restaurant - A restaurant hanging over the cliffside, offering amazing views and delicious local dishes.
Open-sided Trains - Take a ride on these unique trains, running along the coastal line, with limited services offered daily.
Ekin Museum (and Festival) - Learn about the life and work of a disgraced official painter, Hirose Kinzō, who reemerged with unique and sometimes disturbing artworks. A July festival showcases his artwork and traditional Japanese artwork techniques.

Kochi Prefecture - Central

The central part of Kochi showcases lush greenery, clear waters, and charming towns. Some attractions to visit include:

Nakatsu Gorge and Valley - A picturesque valley offering hikes through stunning forests, unusual rock formations, and vibrant plants.
Niyodō Blue and River - Known for its blue waters, this area is a great spot for water activities.
Asunaro Matcha Noodle Restaurant - A café with exquisite matcha noodles, high in antioxidants and known for their metabolism-boosting and mind-calming benefits.
Tengu Highlands Forest Therapy Road - A tranquil woodland path through the national park, perfect for wellness therapy and reconnecting with nature.
Shikoku Karst Natural Park - A vast nature reserve offering panoramic views and surrounded by unique rock formations.
Yusuhara Town and Library - Visit this charming village, home to a stunning library designed by the architect of the Tokyo 2020 Olympics Stadium, Kengo Kuma.
Motoyama Montbell Village - Set along the Yoshino river, this area offers camping, water sports, and nature activities.
Aikawa Tanada terraced rice fields & Keigetsu Sake Brewery - Discover a region surrounded by rice terraces, with a nearby winery and sake brewery offering tours.
Cooking Katsuo no Tataki (Seared Bonito) at Kuretaishomachi Market - Learn traditional cooking techniques by searing bonito in a market setting.

Kochi Prefecture - South

The southern region of Kochi is characterized by its stunning coastline, underwater observatories, and serene rivers. Some must-see destinations include:

Shimanto River - Explore this beautiful, calm river by kayak, canoe, or bike.
Knife-Making Experience - Spend an afternoon crafting your very own knife under the guidance of a master blacksmith.
Kayaking & Cycling in Shimanto - Discover this region by kayak or bike, taking in the stunning scenery and serene atmosphere.
Tatsukushi and Underwater Observatory - Explore the underwater world through this fascinating observatory.
Whale and Dolphin Watching IN THE WILD - Sightsee these magnificent creatures in their natural habitat with several boat tours offered in the area.

Accommodation Choices:

Choosing the right accommodation can significantly enhance your Kochi experience. Here are some noteworthy options to consider:

Utoco Resort and Spa - A spacious hotel located near the Muroto Global Geo Park, with stunning views, on-site restaurant, and a wellness spa.
Hotel Seira Shimanto - Located high above the Shimanto River, this hotel offers comfortable rooms, an onsen, and local dining options.
Mont Bell Outdoor Village - Surrounded by nature and the Yoshino river, this wooden cabins resort is ideal for water sports and outdoor activities.
Anjuann Ryokan - Offers a traditional ryokan experience with comfortable rooms, onsen, and delicious meals in a scenic mountain setting.
Dormi Inn - A chain hotel ideal for budget travelers, located in the center of Kochi City with comfortable rooms, breakfast, and an onsen.
Sameuraso - A glass-fronted hotel and restaurant with stunning views of a reservoir and surrounding forests.
Ashizuri Pacific Hotel - A seaside hotel located in the south of Kochi, with stunning views, onsen, and traditional and modern room options.

In Kochi Prefecture's lifestyle-rich city, a week-long adventure awaits with activities such as exploring Kochi Castle, trying street food at the Sunday Market, or unwinding at the Makino Botanical Gardens. For the traveler seeking solace and relaxation, the northern region offers therapeutic resorts like Utoco Deep Sea Therapy Centre and Spa, and stunning coastal views at Muroto Global Geopark.

The central part of Kochi promises a rejuvenating journey among lush greenery and clear waters, with opportunities to immerse itself in traditional Japanese arts at Ekin Museum or indulge in matcha noodles at Asunaro Matcha Noodle Restaurant. Meanwhile, the southern region, characterized by its stunning coastline, provides unique experiences like whale and dolphin watching and kayaking along the Shimanto River.