Located in the heart of Kochi City, just a short walk from popular landmarks like Kochi Castle and Harimaya Bridge, Hirome Market is the ultimate destination for immersing yourself in Kochi’s unique food culture. Since its opening in 1998, this vibrant spot has become a favorite for both locals and visitors alike.

With nearly 70 shops, including restaurants and souvenir stalls, Hirome Market offers an incredible variety of dishes to savor. Grab something delicious from one of the many food stalls and enjoy your meal at the communal tables scattered throughout the market.

During peak hours, you might share a table with locals or fellow travelers sparking friendly conversation. Don’t be surprised if someone asks, “Where are you from?” or “What have you tried so far?” It’s all part of the Hirome Market charm!

The market opens early, and daytime drinking is a popular pastime among locals, adding to its laid-back, lively atmosphere. From the buzz of shared tables to the aroma of fresh seafood, Hirome Market captures everything that makes Kochi special. 

General Information about Hirome Market

Operating Hours:
Monday–Saturday: 10:00 AM – 11:00 PM
Sunday: 9:00 AM – 11:00 PM
(Note: Hours may vary by shop.)

Closed:
Open year-round, with occasional closures for events like New Year's holidays.

Access:

By Foot: 15 minutes from JR Kochi Station.
By Tram: 3 minutes from the Tosaden tram stop “Ohashidori.”
By Bus: Approximately 40 minutes by bus from Kochi Ryoma Airport.

How to Get to Hirome Market

If you’re walking from the Harimaya Bridge Tourist Bus Terminal, here is the route:

1.  Start at the terminal on the eastern side of downtown Kochi.

2. Head west, passing iconic landmarks like Harimaya Bridge and Kochi Castle.

3. Stroll through the Harimaya Bridge Shopping Street, then continue through Kyomachi Shopping Street and Obiyamachi Shopping Street

4. After about 20 minutes, you will spot Hirome Market on your right.

How to Use Hirome Market

Step-by-Step Guide:

1. Choose your food or drinks from any of the stalls and pay at the counter.
2. Some shops will deliver your food to your table when it is ready. To make it easier, note your table’s location or number (clearly marked on each table).

3. Most stalls only accept cash only, so be sure to have enough yen on hand!

4.When you are done eating, you can either dispose of your items at the designated cleaning areas or simply leave your dishes on the table—market staff will take care of them.

Recommended Foods at Hirome Market

Yairo-tei

What to Try: Katsuo no tataki (seared bonito) and fresh bonito sashimi, paired with izakaya-style dishes.
Hours:
Monday–Saturday 10:00 AM – 9:20 PM
Sunday 9:00 AM – 9:00 PM
Closed: Follows Hirome Market’s irregular closure schedule.

Tsukasa Shokudo

What to Try: Traditional Kochi dishes, including their must-try katsuo no tataki(seared bonito) and other unique local specialties.
Hours:
Monday–Saturday: 11:00 AM – 9:00 PM
Sunday: 9:00 AM – 8:00 PM
Holidays: 10:00 AM – 9:00 PM
Credit Cards: Accepted

Myojinmaru

What to Try: Katsuo no tataki(seared bonito) grilled right in front of you, over straw flames for an unforgettable flavor.
Hours:
Monday–Saturday 11:00 AM – 9:00 PM
Sunday 10:00 AM – 9:00 PM

Yasubee

What to Try: Crispy, bite-sized gyoza dumplings—perfectly paired with a cold beer.
Hours:
Monday–Saturday: 12:00 PM – 9:00 PM
Sunday and Holidays: 11:00 AM – 8:00 PM
Closed: Irregular.

Other Dining Options

Hirome Market is not just about Kochi’s local specialties—it also offers a diverse array of international flavors. From Indian curry to matcha desserts, the market ensures there is something to satisfy every palate.

Souvenirs at Hirome Market

Searching for the perfect gift? Hirome Market offers a wide selection of memorable souvenirs:

• Katsuo (bonito) products, sweet potato snacks (Imo-Kenpi), traditional sweets, condiments, Japanese sake, tea, and yuzu-flavored drinks.
• International eats including Indian curry and matcha desserts, ensuring something for everyone.

Many shops offer English menus or have staff ready to assist, so don’t hesitate to ask!

Tips for Visitors

Many stalls at Hirome Market provide English menus or have English-speaking staff. If you are unsure about something, just ask—locals are happy to help!

Why Visit Hirome Market?

Hirome Market is not just a food court—it’s a lively heart of Kochi’s culture. From chatting with locals to savoring fresh seafood or browsing unique souvenirs, every moment here is a memorable adventure. Grab a seat, try something new, and soak up the vibrant atmosphere of this one-of-a-kind destination.

The post Hirome Market Kochi: Food, Drinks & Local Culture Under One Roof first appeared on [Kochi Prefecture Official]The comprehensive website 'Kochike's 〇〇' provides all sorts of information about Kochi Prefecture..

Flowing across Ehime and Kochi Prefectures, the Niyodo River stretches for 124 kilometers with a basin of 1,560 square kilometers. On the Ehime side it is called the Omogo River, but once it reaches Kochi, it becomes the Niyodo—the name that travelers remember.

The river has been designated a Class A River by Japan’s Ministry of Land, Infrastructure, Transport and Tourism, marking it as especially important for both national land conservation and the economy.

It is also home to several dams, such as the impressive Odo Dam (the second largest in Shikoku), along with the Kae Dam and Ikadazu Dam, built for flood control and hydroelectric power generation. These facilities make the Niyodo one of the most utilized rivers in the region.

Here are three key features that make the Niyodo River stand out.

Image courtesy of the Niyodo Blue Tourism Association(画像提供：一般社団法人仁淀ブルー観光協議会)

The Cleanest Water in Japan

In 2019, after a survey of 162 Class A rivers nationwide, the Niyodo River was awarded No.1 in water quality for the second consecutive year.

It was also recognized as one of Japan’s 16 rivers with the very best water quality that year—the only one in all of Shikoku to receive this distinction.

A Paradise for Outdoor Leisure

The river’s middle to lower reaches are abundant in water, creating an ideal setting for outdoor fun. Visitors can enjoy camping, fishing, canoeing, and more.

In recent years, adventurous activities like rafting, stand-up paddleboarding (SUP), and shower climbing have also become popular, drawing nature lovers and thrill-seekers alike.

The Magical “Glowing Forest”

In the midstream area rises Mt. Yokokura, known as the “Glowing Forest.”

The forest owes its name to luminous mushrooms (Shiinotomoshitake) and the countless fireflies that inhabit the area. Depending on the season and time, you can witness a breathtaking collaboration between crystal-clear waters and flickering natural lights.

The Famous “Niyodo Blue”

Image courtesy of the Niyodo Blue Tourism Association(画像提供：一般社団法人仁淀ブルー観光協議会)

Above all, the Niyodo River is celebrated for its extraordinary color: a mystical, pure shade of blue known as “Niyodo Blue.”

The name was coined by nature photographer Nobuyuki Takahashi, who was captivated by its clarity and brilliance. Since then, travelers from all over the world have come seeking this remarkable sight.

The reason behind the vivid blue is not completely proven, but leading theories include:

・The water temperature is low, making it difficult for algae to grow.
・The hard surrounding rock produces little mud or sediment.
・The current is swift, preventing impurities from building up.
・Clearer water reflects more blue wavelengths of sunlight, making it appear more vivid.

While the “Niyodo Blue” can be seen along most of the river, certain locations are especially famous for it:

・Niko Falls (Niko-buchi)
・Nakatsu Gorge
・Yasui Gorge (particularly Suisho-buchi and the Sabō Dam)

Because the color shifts depending on season, weather, and sunlight, no two visits are exactly the same—an invitation to return again and again.

Must-See Spots Along the Niyodo River

Here are seven destinations you won’t want to miss.

Nagoya Chinka Bridge(submersible bridges)

Image courtesy of the Niyodo Blue Tourism Association(画像提供：一般社団法人仁淀ブルー観光協議会)

The longest of the six chinka bridges (submersible bridges) along the Niyodo, stretching 196 meters.

When the water is shallow, you can see fish swimming beneath in the shimmering blue—an image that has made the bridge especially popular on Instagram.

It is also the closest submersible bridge to Kochi City and is still used as a daily crossing by local residents.

(Chinka bridges are designed without railings; they function as regular bridges during low water but submerge beneath the surface when the river floods.)

Niko Falls (Niko-buchi)

Image courtesy of the Niyodo Blue Tourism Association(画像提供：一般社団法人仁淀ブルー観光協議会)

This waterfall basin in the upper reaches of the river is perhaps the most iconic view of Niyodo Blue.

Once considered sacred—the locals believed a great serpent god lived here—it was avoided for generations. That changed after photographer Nobuyuki Takahashi captured its beauty, spreading its fame across social media.

The most magical time to visit is around midday on a clear day, when sunlight pours directly into the basin, creating an otherworldly glow.

Suisho-buchi (Crystal Basin)

Image courtesy of the Niyodo Blue Tourism Association(画像提供：一般社団法人仁淀ブルー観光協議会)

One of the most celebrated spots for seeing Niyodo Blue. Depending on light and time of day, the water here shifts between deep green and dazzling blue.

Parking is limited nearby, so the recommended approach is to park at Horaiso Inn and walk.

Sabō Dam

Image courtesy of the Niyodo Blue Tourism Association(画像提供：一般社団法人仁淀ブルー観光協議会)

Located near Suisho-buchi, this dam forms a pool of striking blue water that never fails to impress visitors.

Hiryū Falls (“Flying Dragon Falls”)

Image courtesy of the Niyodo Blue Tourism Association(画像提供：一般社団法人仁淀ブルー観光協議会)

A two-tiered waterfall with a 30-meter drop. Its twisting form resembles a dragon about to take flight, inspiring its name.

During heavy rains, its power is overwhelming, and the basin shines with dramatic Niyodo Blue. It is one of the highlights of Yasui Gorge.

Mikaeri Falls (“Looking Back Falls”)

The first waterfall you’ll encounter when entering Yasui Gorge. Its name comes from the irresistible urge to look back one more time before leaving.

The water cascades down in multiple small tiers, its abundant flow a testament to the power of the Niyodo.

Seryū Falls (“Back Dragon Falls”)

Discovered in 2001 after surrounding trees were cleared, this waterfall plunges 60 meters in a single drop.

After heavy rain, its flow intensifies and sometimes creates a second waterfall right beside it—a rare spectacle.

Food Around the Niyodo River

Exploring the river can work up an appetite. Here are some recommended spots nearby.

Hatayama Garden

A restaurant specializing in pizzas topped with fresh, seasonal vegetables chosen by a certified vegetable sommelier.

Image courtesy of Hatayama Garden

・Fruit Tomato Pizza (for 2–3 people, ¥1,750)
・Stir-Fried Veggie Pizza (single, ¥930)
・Fresh Tomato & Tuna Mayo Pizza (single, ¥980)

They also serve over ten kinds of fresh juices, making it a great choice for families.

Ikegawa Tea Garden Café

Founded by female tea farmers in Niyodogawa Town, this café specializes in handmade sweets infused with their own carefully grown tea leaves.

・Tea Flavored Tiramisu


・Tea flavored Roll Cake

・Tea Flavored Pudding

They also serve high-quality teas such as hōjicha and kabusecha. Products can be ordered online, so you can bring the taste of Niyodo to your home.

All photos courtesy of the official website of Ikegawa Tea Garden Café (https://www.ikegawachaen.jp/)

Asunaro (Tea Farmer’s Restaurant)

A café-restaurant run by tea farmers, offering dishes made with local specialties such as Sawadachi tea.

Highlights include:

・Asunaro Set Meal (¥1,580)
・Sawadachi Tea Udon Set (¥1,180)
・Hand-baked Sawadachi Tea Waffle (¥1,080)

You can even brew your own tea with a traditional kyūsu teapot, making this a particularly authentic experience.

Relaxation Spot

Yunomori

After exploring, unwind at Yunomori, a traditional inn offering lodging, hot springs, and meals.

Rooms: Japanese-style rooms and private cottages with views of the Nakatsu River.
Hot Springs: Alkaline mineral waters believed to help with muscle pain, joint stiffness, and fatigue.

Meals: Seasonal dishes using local vegetables, along with Kochi specialties such as bonito tataki.

Recommended Camping: Snow Peak Ochi Niyodo River Camp Field

One of the most popular campgrounds in the area, located right on the riverbank. It offers 30 campsites, suitable for everyone from beginners to seasoned campers.

You can even stay in wooden mobile cabins called “Jyubako.” Canoeing, rafting, and other river activities are also available, making it perfect for summer trips.

Access to Niyodo River

The easiest way to reach Yasui Gorge is by car. Rental cars are available at both Kochi Airport and JR Kochi Station. Enter “Horaiso Inn” in your GPS—it’s the only inn in the gorge and has a large parking lot.

If you’re not confident driving narrow roads, taxis are recommended. Private-hire taxis are available from:

・Kochi Ryoma Airport
・JR Kochi Station
・Hotels in Kochi City
・JR Ino Station
・JR Sakawa or JR Nishi-Sakawa Stations

Rates: 4 hours for ¥25,200 (1–4 people).

Conclusion

Image courtesy of the Niyodo Blue Tourism Association(画像提供：一般社団法人仁淀ブルー観光協議会)

From its legendary “Niyodo Blue” waters to its waterfalls, outdoor activities, local cuisine, and soothing hot springs, the Niyodo River offers an experience that is both dynamic and deeply restorative.

Let this guide inspire your journey, and discover one of Kochi Prefecture’s most unforgettable natural treasures.

The post Niyodo River, Kochi: The Bluest River in Japan – How to Visit & What to Do first appeared on [Kochi Prefecture Official]The comprehensive website 'Kochike's 〇〇' provides all sorts of information about Kochi Prefecture..

Kochi Castle is a traditional Japanese castle located in Kochi City, Kochi Prefecture, and celebrated as one of Japan’s 100 famous castles. Designated a national historic site by the government, it was originally built by Yamauchi Kazutoyo, the first lord of the Tosa Domain, and completed in 1611. While the original structure was destroyed by fire in 1727, the castle was reconstructed in 1749, preserving its Edo-period design and authenticity.

Situated on a hill, Kochi Castle offers sweeping views of Kochi City and is notable for its distinctive architectural features, making it unique and a must-see destination for those interested in traditional Japanese culture and historical architecture.

Highlights of Kochi Castle

One of Japan’s Few Remaining Original Castles

Kochi Castle is among only 12 castles in Japan with an original main keep (tenshu), preserved since the Edo period reconstruction in 1749. Unlike many castles that have been rebuilt as replicas, Kochi Castle offers an authentic historical experience, allowing visitors to explore spaces once inhabited by feudal lords and samurai.

One of the highlights of Kochi Castle is its main keep, which offers a stunning 360-degree panoramic view of Kochi City, making it one of the best spots for sightseeing.

The Only Castle in Japan with Both the Main Keep and Main Palace Intact

The main palace (honmaru-goten), located at the center of the castle grounds, once served as the residence and office of the feudal lord. During the Edo-period, castles were not only military strongholds but also vital political and administrative centers. Kochi Castle is one of only two castles in Japan with a remaining main palace, and the only one where both the main keep and the main palace still exist, making it an exceptional place to experience the authentic atmosphere of the Edo-period.

Explore 15 Additional Edo-Period Structures

Kochi Castle is also famous for its preservation of 15 other Edo-period structures. These buildings offer an authentic look into the feudal era, giving visitors a rich historical experience. Here are some notable structures you can explore while visiting.

Otemon Gate

Kurogane Gate

Sunday Market: A Local Favorite

The Tosa Sunday Market is a must-visit If you are at  Kochi Castle on a Sunday. This market has a rich history, dating back to 1690. Spanning about one kilometer from Otemon Gate of the castle,  the market offers a variety of goods, including:

• Fresh vegetables and fruits
• Processed foods and seafood
• Tools, knives, clothing, and household items
• Plants and flowers

Exploring the market is a great way to experience local life and to find unique products, making it a perfect addition to your visit.

Local Tips for Enjoying Kochi Castle

Take a Break with Ice Cream at Ninomaru

Ninomaru, the outer area surrounding the main palace, is a great place to try a local dessert called "Ice Kurin", a traditional frozen dessert made without milk for a unique texture and a light taste. There are many Ice Kurin vendors throughout the area, and enjoying one on your way to the main keep is a special experience.

Sannomaru: A Cherry Blossom Viewing Spot

Sannomaru is the outermost defensive area of the castle grounds, which connects to the castle town and served as a storage area for supplies. It is especially popular in spring (March to April), when cherry blossoms bloom. The cherry trees along the moat and nearby areas create a beautiful picturesque setting.

Relax at Maruyama Green Park

Located inside the castle’s moat, Maruyama Green Park is perfect for relaxing and enjoying the castle’s view. The park is a favorite spot among locals for picnics and small gatherings on the lawn, allowing visitors to unwind and soak up the local atmosphere.

How to Get to Kochi Castle

From Kochi Ryoma Airport

The easiest way to reach Kochi Castle from Kochi Ryoma Airport is by bus.

By Bus:

1. Board the airport bus at the "Kochi Ryoma Airport" bus stop.
2. Get off at the "Kita-Harimayabashi" bus stop.
3. From there, it is about a 20-minute walk to Kochi Castle.

From JR Kochi Station

You have two main options for public transportaion from JR Kochi Station: tram or bus.

By Tram:

1. Take the Tosaden Tram from JR Kochi Station.
2. Transfer at the "Harimayabashi" stop.
3. Get off at "Kochijo-mae" station.

By Bus:

1. Take the Tosaden bus from JR Kochi Station.
2. Get off at "Kochijo-mae" bus stop.

By Foot: If you prefer to walk, head south from JR Kochi Station, then turn right onto Otesuji Street. Walking takes about 25 minutes.

Conclusion

Kochi Castle is one of Japan’s few remaining original castles, offering a rare glimpse into the country’s feudal history. Whether you are exploring the historic structures, enjoying the local Sunday market, or relaxing in the park, there are countless ways to experience the charm of Kochi Castle. Be sure to include this iconic site in your travel plans to immerse yourself in the history and culture of Kochi.

Enjoy your visit to Kochi Castle and discover the heart of Japan’s samurai past!

The post Kochi Castle: Complete Visitor Guide – History, Hours & Travel Tips (2026) first appeared on [Kochi Prefecture Official]The comprehensive website 'Kochike's 〇〇' provides all sorts of information about Kochi Prefecture..

If you’re planning a trip through the area, here are the experiences, foods, and small local discoveries that define a Shimanto journey.

Take It Slow on a Yakatabune Cruise(House boat)

One of the most relaxing ways to meet the Shimanto River is aboard a yakatabune, a traditional roofed sightseeing boat. The 50-minute cruise drifts downstream before turning back near the famous Sada Submersible Bridge. Because the deck sits close to the water, you can clearly see river plants, the reflections of the sky, and the gentle flow beneath you.

The moment the boat turns quietly just before the bridge is surprisingly beautiful—you look up at the low structure from almost water level, a perspective you can’t get from land.

Cruises often depend on weather and water levels; after heavy rain, rising water may pause operations. But when the river is calm, each season offers its own charm: soft breezes in spring, clear views in autumn, and crisp, sunlit days in winter. Some operators even serve meals onboard, letting you enjoy local flavors in a slow, distinctly Japanese setting.

The Submersible Bridges: Living With the River

The Submersiblea bridges of Shimanto are local icons. Built deliberately low and without railings, they are designed to sink underwater during floods, allowing driftwood and debris to pass without destroying the structure. More than 20 remain in use today.

The most photographed is the Sada Chinka Bridge, stretching across one of the widest sections of the river. The combination of open water and mountain ridges captures the spacious feel of Shimanto’s landscape.

In the midstream areas where the water is especially clear, you might even spot fish gliding under your feet. Crossing by bicycle or car requires a steady hand, but the simplicity of the scene leaves a lasting impression.

Canoeing and SUP: Meeting the River Up Close

If you want to experience the Shimanto more directly, join a canoe or stand-up paddleboard (SUP) tour. The flow is gentle, making it approachable even for beginners, and long-running local operators provide guided routes ranging from short half-day paddles to full-day downstream courses.

The river changes mood with the seasons: cherry blossoms in spring, cool splashes in summer, glass-clear water in autumn, and peaceful silence in winter. On snowy mornings, the stillness of the river makes the experience feel almost otherworldly.

Nonaka Cycle: A Small Shop With a Big Heart

In central Shimanto City, a tiny shop with bright pinwheels spinning at the entrance marks Nonaka Cycle. The shop has been around for more than 45 years, but these days it functions less as a repair shop and more as a gathering place for curious travelers.

The pinwheels catch the eye of people passing through town, and many wander in just to say hello. Since around 2008, the owner has taken commemorative photos with visitors—now filling five albums with people from 18 countries and 34 prefectures in Japan. Some even return on later trips. It’s the kind of warm, unexpected stop that makes rural travel memorable.

Tenjinbashi Shopping Arcade: Everyday Shimanto

At the center of the city lies the Tenjinbashi Shopping Arcade, a simple, low-key covered street lined with local shops. There’s nothing flashy here—just traditional sweets stores, delis, and small household shops that locals visit in their daily routines. Because it wasn’t built for tourists, the arcade offers an authentic glimpse into everyday life.

A short walk through the quiet alleys provides a grounding contrast to the riverside scenery.

Roadside Station “Yotte Nishi-Tosa”

If you’re exploring the river by car, Yotte Nishi-Tosa, a riverside roadside station, is an easy and convenient stop. Japan’s roadside stations serve as rest areas offering local food, souvenirs, and travel information—and this one does all three well.

The restaurant features regional dishes such as Shimanto ayu (sweetfish), Shimanto pork, and vegetable-focused meals. The shop is stocked with river nori, yuzu products, and other flavors unique to Shikoku. Behind the building, the river flows quietly, and many visitors step outside to take photos or simply enjoy the open scenery.

Make Something by Hand: Workshop Kurogane 

Beyond nature, the Shimanto region offers hands-on craft experiences. At this workshop, you can try blacksmithing—heating iron, striking it with a hammer, and shaping it into a tool. Some courses even let you make your own knife.

The process requires focus but is surprisingly intuitive, and the final result becomes a meaningful travel memento. It’s also a great rainy-day option.

Taste the Local Favorite: Janmen

When hunger hits, look for Janmen, a hearty local noodle dish with a rich, savory broth. At Manshuuken, a well-known shop in Shimanto City, you can try Janmen-han, a set that pairs the noodles with rice for an extra-satisfying meal. It’s popular among locals and easy for travelers to drop in between sightseeing stops.

Shimanto Tourism Association: Your Base for Bicycling

Near Nakamura Station—the gateway to the region—the Shimanto Tourism Association offers maps, brochures, event support, and bicycle rentals. The association moved to its current location around ten years ago, but the rental service has been running even longer.

Because scenic spots along the river are spread out, bicycles are a practical way to explore. In addition to standard rentals, the association offers “Rinrin Cycle”, a one-way system that lets you return your bike at several riverside facilities—perfect for flexible itineraries.

Why the Shimanto Area Leaves a Lasting Impression

A trip to Shimanto blends nature, food, and hands-on experiences into a relaxed, well-balanced journey. Whether you’re drifting along the water on a yakatabune, crossing the chinka bridges, paddling through clear currents, tasting local dishes, or joining a craft workshop, the region offers something approachable for every traveler.

Most spots require little preparation, making Shimanto an ideal destination for a slow, unhurried trip surrounded by one of Japan’s most beautiful rivers.

The post Discover the Shimanto River: A Gentle Journey Through Japan’s Last Pristine Waters first appeared on [Kochi Prefecture Official]The comprehensive website 'Kochike's 〇〇' provides all sorts of information about Kochi Prefecture..

Kure Taisho-machi Market dates back to the mid-Meiji period.

It began when fishermen’s wives started selling their daily catch in this area. Over time, more fishmongers and produce vendors gathered, forming a lively local market. Today, the market has evolved further, with many seafood shops also operating their own small restaurants.

Although compact, the market is packed with fresh seafood, dried fish, and locally grown fruits and vegetables. It has become a popular destination not only for locals but also for visitors.

Kure Taisho-machi Market offers a glimpse into the charm of a traditional fishing town.

In this article, we will explore what makes this market so special.

This Is Where You Eat Bonito

Kure in Nakatosa Town has been a center of bonito (katsuo) pole-and-line fishing for over 400 years.

Unlike net fishing, this traditional method prevents damage to the fish, resulting in superior freshness. It is also environmentally sustainable, as it avoids overfishing entire schools.

Here are three must-visit spots in the market where you can enjoy exceptional katsuo.

Tanaka Fresh Fish Store

Run by a self-proclaimed “Katsuo sommelier,” this shop offers top-quality bonito selected with expert precision.

You can purchase sashimi or dried fish from the store and bring it to the nearby the restaurant “Fisherman’s Hut” where you can add rice and miso soup to create a complete meal.

Tanaka Fresh Fish Store
TEL: +81-889-52-2729
Hours: 9:00 AM – around 5:00 PM
Fisherman’s Hut: 10:00 AM – 2:30 PM (Last order 2:00 PM)
Closed: Wednesdays

Yamamoto Fresh Fish Store

This shop features an eat-in space attached to the fish store.

Their katsuo is prepared using locally sourced straw and grilled with a unique smoking technique that enhances the aroma. The smoky flavor spreads richly across your palate.

Yamamoto Fresh Fish Store
TEL: +81-889-52-3373
Hours:
Fish store: 10:00 AM – 4:00 PM
Dining: 11:00 AM – 2:00 PM (until sold out)
Closed: Mondays and Thursdays

Tommy’s Kitchen

A former bonito fisherman runs this restaurant, serving authentic “fisherman’s meals.”

The menu includes a wide range of dishes such as set meals and rice bowls, along with unique options like katsuo namerou (minced seasoned fish) and even katsuo curry.

Tommy’s Kitchen
TEL: +81-90-7141-3570
Hours: 10:30 AM – 2:30 PM
Closed: Irregular

[Late Summer Only] Try “Mejika no Shinko”

One of the most anticipated seasonal delicacies in Kochi is “Mejika no Shinko”, young frigate mackerel.

This fish spoils extremely quickly—locals say it should be eaten by noon if caught in the morning. Because of this, it is rarely distributed outside the region.

From mid-August onward, many Kochi residents visit Kure specifically to enjoy this dish.

The best way to eat it is as sashimi.

Grate the peel of bushukan (a local citrus), squeeze the juice generously, add soy sauce, and enjoy. Its chewy texture and rich flavor pair perfectly with the refreshing citrus.

If you visit at the right time, this is a must-try.

Street Food You Shouldn’t Miss

Kure Ten (Fish Cake)

At Okamura Kamaboko Shop, established in 1938, you can buy “Kure Ten” from just one piece.

Made from small fish caught off the coast of Tosa, it has a soft texture and deep umami flavor—perfect for snacking or as a souvenir.

Okamura Kamaboko Store
TEL：+81-889-52-2956
Hours: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Closed: Wednesday

Grilled Katsuo Belly (Haranbo)

At Kushiyaki Ponkichi, you can try haranbo, the fatty belly portion of katsuo—equivalent to toro in tuna.

Grilled over charcoal, it is juicy, rich, and highly flavorful. This is a rare local specialty you won’t easily find elsewhere.

Kushiyaki Ponkichi
TEL：+81-889-52-2956
Hours: 10:00 AM – 1:30 PM

Handmade Donuts and Sweets

Nishimura Confectionery Shop, located at the entrance of the market, is a nostalgic sweet shop offering handmade treats and traditional snacks.

There is also an eat-in space where you can enjoy shaved ice in summer or local strawberries in winter.

西村菓子店

TEL：0889-52-2953
営業時間：午前9時~午後４時30分
定休日：火曜・水曜

Nishimura Confectionery Shop
TEL：+81-889-52-2953
Hours: 9:00 AM – 4:30 PM
Closed: Tuesday, Wednesday

Avoid the Lunch Crowds: Zeyopia

During busy lunchtime hours, many restaurants can have long wait times.

In such cases, head to Zeyopia, a tourist facility where you can bring your own food and enjoy it in a relaxed environment. It also has restrooms, making it a convenient break spot.

Take a Walk by the Sea

After your meal, take a short walk to the nearby coastline.

Visit Kure Hachimangu Shrine, then continue to Kure Bay.

The contrast of blue sky and sea, along with the gentle sound of waves, creates a calm and relaxing atmosphere.

Access

Kure Taisho-machi Market is located about 50 minutes west of Kochi City by car.

By train, take the JR Dosan Line from Kochi Station (about 50 minutes), followed by a 5-minute walk.

Parking

There are three free parking areas within walking distance of the market.

Summary

Kure Taisho-machi Market is a place where the traditions and daily life of a fishing town are still alive.

Here, you can enjoy fresh local cuisine while experiencing the warm, welcoming atmosphere unique to Kure.

If you visit Kochi, this is a destination worth adding to your itinerary.

Kure Taisho-machi Market Information

Address: Taisho-machi, Kure, Nakatosa Town, Kochi Prefecture
Hours:
Weekends & Holidays: 9:00 AM – 4:00 PM
Weekdays: 10:00 AM – 4:00 PM
Admission: Free
Closed: New Year’s Day, stormy weather days, varies by store

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