8 Must-Try Local Delicacies in Kochi: A Culinary Journey Through Nature and Tradition

Kochi Prefecture, surrounded by breathtaking natural beauty, is a treasure trove of local delicacies that perfectly reflect its unique culture and history. Here are eight must-try dishes you should not miss during your visit

Katsuo no Tataki (Seared Bonito)

As Kochi’s signature dish, katsuo no tataki features fresh bonito seared over burning straw, leaving the inside deliciously rare. This traditional cooking method enhances the fish’s natural flavor, making it a beloved local specialty.

Why It’s Delicious

• Made with premium bonito carried by the Kuroshio Current, ensuring unparalleled freshness.
• The straw-searing process impacts a rich, smoky aroma while keeping the interior tender.
• Served with an array of garnishes including garlic and onions, and paired with salt or ponzu sauce for a burst of flavor.

Inaka Sushi (Rustic Sushi)

Unlike the more familiar nigiri sushi, Kochi’s inaka sushi highlights the resourcefulness of its mountain communities by using locally grown vegetables as the main ingredients.

Why It’s Unique

• Originated in mountainous regions where fresh seafood was scarce.
• Sushi rice is flavored with Kochi’s signature yuzu juice, offering a refreshing tang.
• Toppings feature seasonal vegetables like shiitake mushrooms, lotus root stems, and myoga ginger, showcasing local flavors.

Tosa Akaushi (Tosa Red Wagyu)

Tosa Akaushi is a rare breed of wagyu beef raised in Kochi’s lush pastures. Renowned for its lean yet flavorful meat, it offers a healthier alternative for wagyu lovers.

Why It’s Special

• Features a bold and deeply satisfying red meat flavor.
• Contains less fat than other wagyu varieties, making it a lighter and healthier choice.
• Highly sought-after due to its limited production and exclusivity.

Nabeyaki Ramen

This unique ramen is served in a traditional earthenware pot, which keeps it hot and flavorful until the very last bite.

Why It’s Memorable

• The clay pot retains heat, ensuring every warm and satisfying meal.
• Features a light soy-based chicken broth, perfectly balanced with toppings like chicken, green onions, raw egg, and fish cake.
• Each shop adds its own creative twist to this Kochi classic.

Yatai Gyoza (Dumplings)

A beloved late-night snack in Kochi, these bite-sized dumplings are a staple at cozy food stalls, perfect for after an evening of drinks.

Why It Stands Out

• Cooked to perfection with a crispy, golden-brown exterior.
• Small and snackable, making them the ideal treat to enjoy after a few drinks.
• Many stalls stay open late, creating a relaxed spot for a midnight treat.

Yuzu Products

As one of Japan’s largest producers of yuzu, Kochi showcases this fragrant citrus fruit in a wide variety of dishes and products.

Why Yuzu is Special

• Its juice serves as a substitute for vinegar, including in sushi rice.
• Combined with soy sauce to create ponzu, a versatile condiment perfect for dishes like katsuo no tataki.
• Used in drinks, candies, and desserts, yuzu imparts a refreshing citrus note to every bite or sip.

Unagi (Freshwater Eel)

Kochi’s rivers, including the renowned Shimanto River, are home to wild eels, a regional delicacy. The prefecture also excels in eel farming, ensuring this dish is available year-round.

Why You’ll Love It

• Prepared jiyaki style (grilled over charcoal without steaming), creating a perfectly crispy skin.
• Coated with a sweet and savory soy-based sauce that complements the tender eel.
• While wild eel is a seasonal treat, Kochi’s farmed eel is equally delicious and readily available.

Tosa Sake (Local Sake)

No meal in Kochi is complete without Tosa sake. Renowned for its dry, crisp profile, this sake perfectly complements the region’s flavorful cuisine.

Why Tosa Sake Shines

• Its clean, dry flavor enhances dishes like katsuo no tataki.
• Crafted with Kochi’s high-quality water, resulting in a smooth and refined finish.
• Enjoyed alongside traditional foods, sake is deeply embedded in Kochi’s dining culture.

A Unique Culinary Adventure Awaits!

Kochi’s food scene offers a delightful fusion of fresh seafood, locally sourced ingredients, and the heartfelt hospitality of its people. From the smoky aroma of katsuo no tataki to the vibrant tang of yuzu, every bite is a journey into Kochi’s rich heritage. Whether indulging in late-night gyoza or pairing your meal with the crisp flavors of Tosa sake, Kochi guarantees a dining experience you will never forget.