Explore Kochi, Japan: 7 Must-Visit Attractions and What Makes It Unique

Where is Kochi Prefecture?

Kochi Prefecture is located in the southwestern part of Japan, on the island of Shikoku, which consists of four prefectures.

With its long, narrow shape along the Pacific Ocean, Kochi is rich in natural beauty, featuring the sea, mountains, and rivers.

You can enjoy outdoor activities in nature, savor fresh gourmet food, and experience the warm and cheerful hospitality of the locals, all of which make Kochi an appealing travel destination.

How to Get to Kochi

The most convenient way to travel from Tokyo to Kochi is by airplane.

A direct flight from Tokyo’s Haneda Airport takes about 1 hour and 30 minutes, with around 10 flights daily from morning to evening.

You can also travel by train, but note that there are no Shinkansen (bullet trains) in Shikoku.

To reach Kochi by train, take the Shinkansen from Tokyo to Okayama, then transfer to a limited express train totaling about 6 hours of travel.

If you would like to stop at popular destinations like Osaka or Kyoto along the way, traveling by train or express bus can be a great option.

When planning your trip, consider your schedule and the travel route that best suits you.

Access from Tokyo
1. Airplane (about 1 hour 30 minutes)
From Tokyo Haneda Airport to Kochi Ryoma Airport

2. Train (about 5 hours 50 minutes)
Take the Shinkansen from Tokyo Station to Okayama Station (about 3 hours 15 minutes), then transfer to the limited express Nanpu to Kochi Station (about 2 hours 35 minutes)

3. Highway Bus (over 11 hours, often an overnight bus)
Available from Tokyo Station and other locations to Kochi Station

Access from Osaka
1. Airplane (about 45 minutes)
From Osaka Itami Airport to Kochi Ryoma Airport

2. Train (about 3 hours 20 minutes)
Take the Shinkansen from Shin-Osaka Station to Okayama Station (about 45 minutes), then transfer to the limited express Nanpu to Kochi Station (about 2 hours 35 minutes)

3. Highway Bus (about 5 hours 10 minutes)
From JR Osaka Station to Kochi Station

Access from Matsuyama Airport in Ehime Prefecture
1. Bus (about 175 minutes)
Take the airport limousine bus to Matsuyama City Station (about 15 minutes) , then transfer to an express bus (about 160 minutes) to Kochi Station

2. Car (about 150 minutes)
Use the expressway (toll) to reach Kochi City

Access from Takamatsu Airport
1. Bus (about 140 minutes)
Take the airport limousine bus to “Yume Town Takamatsu” (about 20 minutes), then transfer to an express bus (about 120 minutes) to Kochi Station

2. Car (about 110 minutes)
Use the expressway (toll) to reach Kochi City

The Charm of Kochi

Abundant Nature

One of Kochi’s main attractions is its rich natural environment.

The pristine Shimanto River, known as the “last clear stream in Japan,” and the Niyodo River, often ranked the best in water quality, flow through this region. Surrounded by lush mountains and the vast Pacific Ocean, Kochi offers an exceptional natural landscape of natural beauty.

Delicious Food

Thanks to its abundant nature, Kochi offers a wealth of fresh ingredients, from seafood to beef, pork, chicken, and vegetables.

One standout dish is “Katsuo no Tataki” (seared bonito), lightly flame-grilled over straw—a must-try when visiting Kochi.

Rich Cultural Heritage

Kochi Prefecture is home to historical castles and Buddhist temples, preserving valuable heritage and artifacts from the samurai era. It is an ideal destination for those looking to immerse themselves in Japan’s history and culture.

Experience Japan’s Countryside Scenery

While Kochi Ciity offers lively shopping arcades and modern buildings, the picturesque countryside is just a short trip away. In rural areas, you will find traditional wooden houses, rice paddies, and mountain landscapes that capture the essence of pastoral Japan. Along the coast, experience the vibrant fishing communities where local life is closely connected to the sea.

7 Must-Visit Tourist Spots in Kochi

Kochi Castle

Kochi Castle is one of Japan’s few castles with its original keep still intact, making it both culturally significant and unique.

Designated as an Important Cultural Property in 1950, the castle’s interior preserves its original Edo-period (1603–1868) design, with a surprisingly sophisticated layout.

While exploring its historic features, don’t miss the 360° panoramic view of the city from the top of the keep.

Address: 1-2-1 Marunouchi, Kochi City, Kochi Prefecture
Phone: +81-88-824-5701 (Kochi Castle Management Office)

Harimaya Bridge

This small, red bridge, spanning less than 10 meters, is famous as the setting of a beloved local folktale.

It is a popular photo spot, so why not snap a few pictures here?

Across from Harimaya Bridge, you will also find the “Karakuri Clock,” which plays music every hour from 9:00 AM to 9:00 PM, with animated scenes from Kochi Castle, Harimaya Bridge, and dancing mechanical dolls.

Address: Harimayacho 1, Kochi City, Kochi Prefecture

Godaisan

1. Chikurin-ji Temple

Chikurin-ji Temple, with a history of around 1,300 years, features beautiful gardens, a five-story pagoda, and a Main Hall (Hondō) designated as an Important Cultural Propertyby by the Japanese government.

It is one of the 88 temples of the Shikoku Pilgrimage, known as “Ohenro,” attracting visitors from around the world who come for this Buddhist journey.

Address: 3577 Godaisan, Kochi City, Kochi Prefecture
Visiting Hours: 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Garden and Treasure Hall: 8:30 AM – 5:00 PM
Contact: +81-88-882-3085

2. Makino Botanical Garden

The expansive Makino Botanical Garden includes a southern garden, greenhouse, Tosa Orchid Center, and a museum dedicated to Dr. Tomitaro Makino, Japan’s renowned botanist.

The garden features seasonal flowers such as azaleas, water lilies, chrysanthemums, and peonies, as well as rare plants from Japan and abroad.

Spend a day among these precious plants, and enjoy a French-inspired lunch at the on-site restaurant.

Address: 4200-6 Godaisan, Kochi City, Kochi Prefecture
Phone: +81-88-882-2601
Hours: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Closed: Year-end holidays (Dec 27 – Jan 1), maintenance closures

Katsurahama

This scenic beach, once beloved by the famous samurai Sakamoto Ryoma, is framed by beautiful pine trees along the shore. The gently curving coastline against the vast Pacific Ocean creates a stunning landscape that is perfect for photos from any angle.

The area has been developed as a city park, featuring the Katsurahama Aquarium, the Sakamoto Ryoma Memorial Museum, restaurants, and souvenir shops—plenty to keep you entertained all day. At Katsurahama Aquarium, you can also enjoy feeding experiences with sea turtles and penguins.

Address: Urado Katsurahama, Kochi City

＼Recommended Transport for Godaisan & Katsurahama: MY Yu Bus／

For those using public transportation, the “MY Yu Bus” is highly recommended.

It offers benefits like free tram fare within the city and discounted admission to affiliated attractions.

Check the route and timetable here: https://kochi-tabi.jp/lp/my-bus/

Hirome Market

Hirome Market is a must-visit when exploring Kochi, offering a range of local cuisine, souvenir shops, and more. It attracts a lively mix of locals, tourists, and international visitors.

The market has everything from izakayas and fish shops to meat and fried food stalls. With shared tables, you can strike up conversations with fellow guests and enjoy chatting about your hometowns. For a vibrant atmosphere, Hirome Market is the place to be.

Address: 2-5-11 Otesuji, Kochi City, Kochi Prefecture
Hours: Monday-Saturday: 10:00 AM – 11:00 PM, Sunday: 9:00 AM – 11:00 PM

Submersible Bridges

Kochi’s rivers feature many “submersible bridges” (Chinkabashi), designed to submerge during floods to avoid damage. 

The Shimanto and Niyodo Rivers are famous spots to view these unique bridges. Notably, the “Asao Submersible Bridge,” featured in the 2021 anime movie Belle, draws many visitors.

Address: Kamita, Niyodogawa Town, Takaoka District, Kochi Prefecture

Kure Taisho Town Market

Located about a 50-minute drive from Kochi city, Kure Taisho Town Market is a popular destination for locals seeking the area’s renowned bonito fish.

The market is in Kure, a fishing town in Nakatosa, where single-line bonito fishing has been practiced for over 400 years. Sample freshly seared bonito tataki, flame-grilled daily over straw by the shopkeepers. The friendly shop owners offer a warm welcome, and the homemade taste of local dried fish and other delicacies.

Address: 6372-1 Kure, Nakatosa Town, Takaoka District, Kochi Prefecture
Hours: Varies by store

How Did You Like It?

This guide covered Kochi’s access routes, attractions, and must-visit spots. Use it as a reference when planning your trip to Kochi!