First-Time Kochi, Japan Travel Experience! A 4-Day, 3-Night Food & Sightseeing Guide (Part 2)

Day 3

A Nostalgic Morning at a Showa-Era Café

On the third morning, I stepped into Kissa Depot Kyomachi, a charming retro café with a nostalgic Showa-era ambiance. Their Kochi breakfast set was a popular choice, and when it arrived, the beautifully arranged plate made my mouth water. The fluffy scrambled eggs, crisp fresh salad, rice ball, fruit, and miso soup all came together in a well-balanced meal.

But the highlight? The toast—perfectly crispy on the outside, producing a satisfying crunch with each bite. Paired with homemade chunky strawberry jam, it was just the right amount of sweetness, encapsulating the warmth of a slow morning in Kochi.

Kissa Depot Kyomachi
・Kochi Breakfast Set Part 4: 750 JPY (USD 5)
・Pancake Breakfast Combo: 750 JPY (USD 5)

Katsurahama Beach – A Scenic Coastal Walk

After breakfast, we headed to Kochi’s most iconic seaside spot—Katsurahama Beach. The crescent-shaped coastline was stunning, and with fewer visitors than expected, parking was easy.

Along the way, I passed by the famous statue of Sakamoto Ryoma, a legendary samurai and political figure. Walking down the stone steps, I was greeted by an expansive stretch of golden sand glittering under the sun.

A short walking trail led me to a viewpoint where the deep blue ocean stretched endlessly into the horizon. Next to the observation deck was a small shrine where I decided to draw an omikuji (fortune slip). To my delight, I got a Daikichi (Great Fortune)! A lucky start to the day.

A Tranquil Visit to Chikurin-ji Temple

We then drove to Chikurin-ji Temple, surrounded by a peaceful atmosphere and maple trees just starting to turn red.

The air carried a crisp autumn scent, and along the way, I spotted a couple taking gorgeous wedding photos, making the scene feel even more cinematic.

The temple’s architecture was beautifully traditional, and I took my time appreciating the details.

At the souvenir shop, I carefully selected lucky charms for my family and a small, smiling Buddhist figurine for my grandmother. I hoped this little gift from Kochi would bring her happiness and protection.

Hirome Market – A Foodie’s Paradise

After a peaceful temple visit, it was time to indulge in some local flavors!

On the way to Hirome Market, we stopped by a popular fried food stall, where the staff recommended their deep-fried chicken skewer. One bite in, and I was hooked—the crispy golden crust gave way to juicy, tender chicken with a perfectly seasoned balance of salt and a hint of sweetness. Absolutely addictive!

Finally arriving at Hirome Market, I was greeted by a giant beckoning cat statue at the entrance, as if welcoming every visitor with open arms. Inside, the market was bustling with energy, resembling a Japanese take on a Taiwanese night market.

From oden (Japanese hotpot) to bonito fried rice, I tried a bit of everything. One of the highlights was the pan-fried gyoza and the freshly seared bonito tataki, which filled the air with an irresistible smoky aroma. Paired with a glass of local craft beer, it was a meal to remember.

Yatai Gyoza Yasubei – Hirome Market
・Yatai-style Gyoza: 600 JPY (USD 4)

A Walk Through Kochi Castle Museum of History

Just a three-minute walk from the market, we arrived at the Kochi Castle Museum of History. The modern yet minimalistic design of the museum blended tradition with a contemporary feel, creating an inviting space to learn about Kochi’s past.

The exhibits showcased the unique architecture of Kochi Castle and its historical evolution, giving me a deeper appreciation for the city’s heritage. One of my favorite parts was the third-floor observation deck, offering a perfect view of the castle gates and keep.

Before leaving, I collected a few beautifully designed stamp prints, a unique keepsake to remember my visit.

A Nostalgic Streetcar Ride and Unexpected Pokémon Encounter

Wandering through Kochi’s streets, I spotted a vintage red streetcar that exuded old-school charm. Kochi has many different types of trams, and I had seen quite a variety over the past few days.

But today, I got lucky—I hopped on a special edition tram decorated with Kochi’s official Pokémon mascot! The cute, sky-blue otter-like Pokémon added an extra touch of fun to the ride, making the journey even more memorable.

Learning About Yosakoi Dance and Local Culture

Arriving at the Yosakoi Information Exchange Center, I took a deep dive into the history of Yosakoi, a traditional Japanese dance born in Kochi.

The passion and craftsmanship behind this art form truly fascinated me, and I gained a newfound respect for the dedication of Japanese artisans who keep these traditions alive.

Evening Exploration and a Sake Tasting Experience

Next, we visited the famous Harimaya Bridge, but unfortunately, it was under renovation, so we could only glimpse it from behind the railings—a small disappointment.

At a local souvenir shop, I discovered a drink called Ripple, a lactic acid-based beverage. The stylish packaging immediately caught my eye, and after taking a sip, I was hooked—the sweet and tangy flavor was refreshing and unique. I grabbed a box to take home for my family to try.

As night fell, we stopped by a small but elegant sake bar, Tosa Sake Bar. The bar offered an excellent selection of local sake, ranging from light and smooth to rich and bold.

Among the varieties, my favorite was Bijofu, a beautifully balanced plum sake. The gentle sweetness at the start was soon followed by a refreshing tartness, creating a perfect harmony that had me ordering another glass.

A Unique Izakaya Experience

For our final stop, we visited a self-service izakaya with an interesting concept—instead of ordering at the counter, guests placed a marble into an acrylic box to get their next drink. This honor system approach made for a fun and interactive way to enjoy the night.

Day4

Kure Taishomachi Market

For the final highlight of my trip, I visited Kure Taishomachi Market, a true paradise for cat lovers! The moment I stepped in, I was greeted by friendly, lazy cats roaming freely between the stalls. Some were relaxing in the sun, while others strolled around curiously. I even spotted one casually sipping water—absolutely adorable! The cats here seemed well cared for, with fluffy coats and chubby, content expressions. It felt as if they were cherished mascots, lovingly fed by the local vendors.

Straw-Grilled Bonito – A Must-Try Experience

Aside from the adorable cats, the market offered a truly special experience—straw-grilled bonito. Under the guidance of a skilled chef, I watched as the fresh bonito was seared over roaring flames, with the fragrant aroma of charred straw filling the air.

When served, the outer layer had a perfect smoky crust, while the inside remained juicy, tender, and incredibly flavorful. Grilling it myself made the experience even more satisfying—hands down, one of the best bites of the trip!

A Cozy Café Run by an Elderly Couple

Right next to the market, I stumbled upon dessert at Kokuya, a charming old-style café run by an elderly couple. Stepping inside felt like entering a warm, nostalgic home. Sunlight streamed gently through the windows, casting a soft glow on the wooden interior, decorated with cute figurines and homey touches.

One of the most unique features of the café was a beautifully pruned tree inside the house, with lush green leaves reaching towards the skylight, adding a tranquil atmosphere to the space.

The elderly owner, standing behind the counter, carefully prepared tea with calm, practiced movements, exuding a quiet sense of warmth. I ordered a yuzu hot tea and a plate of warabi mochi. The tea had a gentle citrus aroma that filled the air, while the mochi was soft, chewy, and lightly coated with fragrant roasted soybean powder. Each bite was subtle yet satisfying. Meanwhile, the owner’s wife chatted with us, making us feel as if we were visiting a relative’s home, rather than just another café. It was a simple yet heartwarming experience.

Makino Botanical Garden – A Serene Green Escape

The final stop of my journey was Makino Botanical Garden, a breathtakingly lush and poetic oasis. The entire garden was blanketed in greenery, with winding paths weaving through the gentle slopes. Along the way, various viewpoints and treehouses offered stunning perspectives of the landscape.

Walking through the garden, the air was filled with the crisp scent of plants, and the soft rustling of leaves created a peaceful soundtrack to the experience. Sunlight filtered through the branches, casting golden specks on the ground, making me instinctively slow my pace to fully absorb nature’s beauty.

One tree that truly caught my attention was a massive bald cypress, its towering canopy spreading like a giant umbrella. The orange-tinted leaves glowed under the sunlight, gently swaying with the breeze. Standing beneath it, I felt a deep sense of awe and tranquility.

A Hidden Ghibli-Like Tower

Among the many wonders in the garden, one structure stood out the most—a tower that looked like something straight out of a Ghibli film. Stepping inside, I realized it was completely hollow, allowing me to gaze directly up at the brilliant blue sky framed by its walls.

The way the sunlight streamed down created a dreamlike, almost surreal atmosphere, as if I had stumbled into another world. Time seemed to pause as I stood there, soaking in the moment of quiet wonder.

A Sweet Farewell – Café in the Garden

To wrap up my visit, I stopped by the garden’s café, a peaceful spot with floor-to-ceiling windows that bathed the room in warm sunlight.

I ordered a strawberry mousse cake, which was delicately balanced in sweetness with a silky smooth texture. Paired with a blue lemon soda, which was lightly fizzy and refreshing, it was the perfect way to conclude my journey.

Reflections on Kochi – A Hidden Gem of Serenity

As I left Kochi, my heart was filled with countless memories and emotions. Beyond its natural beauty and incredible food, Kochi offered something truly special—a sense of peace and connection with nature that I hadn’t experienced anywhere else.

It’s not just a paradise for outdoor lovers but a place where one can find quiet moments of reflection and warmth. A hidden sanctuary that lets you slow down, breathe, and rediscover a sense of inner calm.

With one last deep breath of the fresh Kochi air, I knew this trip was one I would cherish forever.