Kochi: The Prefecture with Best Forest in Japan

Kochi Prefecture is a nature-rich region with beautiful ocean, mountains, and rivers. Moreover, roughly 84% of Kochi's land is covered in forest. In addition to nature, there are tourist attractions such as historic buildings and the Sunday market.

About Kochi

Kochi is located in the southern part of the Shikoku region and is the largest prefecture within it. The tourist area is divided into the western, central and eastern parts, and each area is connected by streetcars and character train "Gomen-Nahari Line". Using these to visit various tourist attractions is a staple of Kochi tourism.

Kochi Weather and Tourist Season

Kochi has a warm climate close to the subtropical zone. In addition, the climate difference between the coastal area, plain area and the mountain area is a characteristic of Kochi. The coastal area has strong winds and is humid throughout the year. On the other hand, in the mountain area, there is a lot of precipitation in the summer, and snowfall in the winter. When considering the best tourist season of the region as a whole, it is recommended to go between September and November, when the summer heat still lingers.

Highlights and Things to do in Kochi

We would like to introduce various spots in Kochi that you should definitely visit.

Natural Landscape of Kochi: Katsurahama Beach

Kochi's natural landscape is the highlight of the tour. For example, Katsurahama, an arched coastline, with the combination of blue of the Pacific Ocean and the green of the pine trees that grow on the beach is a superb scenic spot. On top of that, there is a cave made by rainwater called “Ryuga Cave”, as well as “Murotomisaki” and “Ashizurimmisaki” which are located at the east and west edges of Kochi, and you definitely want to visit “Shimantogawa”, where you can experience canoeing and go touring on a sightseeing boat.

Kochi Castle and other Historical Buildings

Kochi has several historical buildings and facilities, including "Kochi Castle". Speaking of which, Kochi Castle is the only castle in Japan that was built around the 18th century where the residence of the castle-lord and his family lived, and a building with a government office, remain. From the Tenshu in the center of the castle, you can admire the decorations of the gate and orca, as well as the city of Kochi.

Kochi Foods and Restaurants

Kochi is famous for its seafood and farm products used in dishes. Most of the restaurants are in Kochi city, and although few, there are some dotted along the coast. You can also buy specialty dishes with ease at places such as the roadside station.

Kochi Local Sushi

There are two local dishes in Kochi: Inakazushi and Sugatazushi. Inakazushi is made with Yuzu vinegar rice with wild vegetables such as bamboo shoots and shiitake mushrooms. On the other hand, Sugatazushi is a made of a combination of salted mackerel and yuzu vinegar rice. Each dish is different, but both are refreshing sushi accented with "Yuzu vinegar", using the Kochi specialty Yuzu.

Katsuo no Tataki

Katsuo is a specialty product harvested so much that it is said to be Kochi’s prefecture fish. Among them, "Katsuo no Tataki" is an item that you can only find in Kochi. The katsuo is grilled with wara (straw plant), roasted with charcoal, smoked, etc., and eaten with salt. At first glance it may seem like a normal dish, but the smell of roasted katsuo and the right amount of saltiness is the greatest combination.

Hotels and Ryokan of Kochi

Accommodation facilities in Kochi are located all over the central area. There are various types such as hotels, ryokan, and guest houses. In addition, since Ashizuri Onsenkyo (Ashizuri Onsen Village) is located in the eastern area, this is a great area to stay in if you want to enter onsen.

Accessibility from Kochi Airport to Kochi Station

Transport from Kochi Airport is convenient. From Kochi Airport to Kochi Station, it takes about 25 minutes by direct bus from the airport, and costs 720 yen. (As of April 2019)

Spot information