Winter Wonders in Kochi, Japan : Where Sunshine Meets Frost

The Daruma Sunset (Sukumo City)

Only a handful of people get to witness this rare spectacle each year. On clear winter evenings between mid-November and mid-February, when cold air meets warmer seawater, the sun takes on the round, glowing shape of a Daruma doll just before sinking into the horizon.

Locals flock to Michi-no-Eki Sukumo Sunny Side Park, facing west toward Sukumo Bay — one of the best viewing spots. You might even catch it in Muroto City if you’re lucky. It’s one of those unforgettable “you had to be there” moments.

Cape Ashizuri & the Camellia Festival (Tosashimizu City)

At the southern tip of Shikoku, Cape Ashizuri becomes a sea of red in winter. 
About 150,000 camellia trees bloom from late January to February, turning the walking paths into a “tunnel of flowers.” During this time, the Ashizuri Camellia Festival celebrates the contrast between the red petals and the endless blue of the Pacific — a signature winter scene of Kochi.

Ryugado Cave (Kami City)

When it’s cold outside, head underground. At a steady 15°C all year round, Ryugado Cave offers natural warmth and mystery.

Explore Japan’s three great limestone caves, where centuries of dripping water have sculpted extraordinary rock formations. It’s a peaceful, otherworldly escape from the winter chill.

Makino Botanical Garden (Kochi City)

High on Mt. Godaisan, this lush botanical garden stays warm even in the coldest months. Its tropical greenhouse overflows with vibrant plants and flowers — like stepping into a pocket of summer. Take your time exploring the indoor exhibitions, the museum of Dr. Tomitaro Makino, and the café overlooking the city. Perfect for travelers seeking nature without the shivers.

©西村卓

Shikoku Karst & Tengu Highlands

If you love starry skies, this one’s for you. At 1,400 meters above sea level, the Shikoku Karst offers some of Japan’s clearest night views — especially in winter, when the air is crisp.

Bring warm gear, though: temperatures can drop below zero, and some roads close between December and March. You can still reach Hoshi Furu Village TENGU, where the stars feel close enough to touch.

Bonus: Kochi’s Rare Winter Faces

Even familiar places like the Shimanto River look different in winter — sometimes lightly covered with snow, reflecting the calm blue sky.

It’s a side of Kochi few travelers ever see. So wrap up warm, take a deep breath of the crisp sea air, and discover the hidden beauty of winter in Japan’s sunny south.