Located on the summit of Mount Godaisan, overlooking Kochi City, Kochi Prefectural Makino Botanical Garden is a peaceful place where visitors can enjoy nature and seasonal plants throughout the year.

The garden is about a 20-minute drive from Kochi Station. Surrounded by the natural scenery of Mount Godaisan, it is a popular spot for a relaxing walk while enjoying Kochi’s rich plant life.

The garden covers about 8 hectares, and the layout follows the natural terrain of the mountain. Walking along the paths through trees and gentle slopes feels almost like hiking in the forest.

It usually takes about 1.5 to 2 hours to explore the entire garden at a relaxed pace. Since there are slopes and stairs, comfortable walking shoes are recommended.

A Garden Dedicated to Dr. Tomitaro Makino

Photo: Courtesy of Kochi Prefectural Makino Botanical Garden

The garden honors Dr. Tomitaro Makino, a botanist from Kochi who is often called the father of Japanese plant taxonomy.

Makino studied botany largely on his own and named more than 1,500 plant species during his lifetime, laying the foundation for plant classification in Japan.

Photo: Collection of Kochi Prefectural Makino Botanical Garden

Many plants connected to Dr. Makino can be seen in the garden, including Baika-oren, a flower he loved, and Sueko-zasa, a bamboo species named after his wife.

By learning the stories behind these plants, visitors can enjoy the garden in a deeper way.

Photo: Courtesy of Kochi Prefectural Makino Botanical Garden

In the Makino Memorial Museum Exhibition Hall in the South Garden, visitors can learn about Makino’s life and research and view his botanical illustrations.

The building was designed by architect Hiroshi Naito, featuring a bright space that blends wood, glass, and natural light.

Photo: Courtesy of Kochi Prefectural Makino Botanical Garden

Two Areas: North Garden and South Garden

Makino Botanical Garden has two main areas: the North Garden and the South Garden.

North Garden

This area recreates the natural vegetation of Kochi.

At the Tosa Plant Ecology Garden, visitors can observe plants that grow naturally in Kochi’s mountains and streams while walking along shaded forest paths.

Photo: Courtesy of Kochi Prefectural Makino Botanical Garden

South Garden

The South Garden was renovated in 2008 and features open lawns and a large greenhouse.

The greenhouse displays about 700 species of tropical and subtropical plants, allowing visitors to see unusual plants up close. It is also a popular place to visit on rainy days.

Photo: Courtesy of Kochi Prefectural Makino Botanical Garden

Enjoy the Garden Through the Seasons

Spring (March–May)

Spring is the most colorful season.
Cherry blossoms bloom first, followed by wildflowers, rhododendrons, and azaleas. The fresh green leaves also make this a great season for photography.

Photo: Courtesy of Kochi Prefectural Makino Botanical Garden

Early Summer to Summer (June–August)

Hydrangeas bloom during the rainy season, and the many trees provide shade, making the garden comfortable even in summer.

Autumn (September–November)

Autumn flowers such as fujibakama and bellflowers appear, and from late November the garden becomes colorful with autumn leaves.

Photo: Courtesy of Kochi Prefectural Makino Botanical Garden

Winter (December–February)

Winter brings a calm atmosphere to the garden.
The greenhouse becomes especially attractive, and plum blossoms begin to bloom in late February.

Night Event: “Cherry Blossom Evening”(March 28–29, 2026)

During this special event, cherry blossoms and plants are illuminated at night, creating a beautiful atmosphere.

Visitors can also enjoy live music performances and workshops.
The restaurant and museum shop will stay open during the event.

Date: March 28–29, 2026
Time: 5:00 PM – 8:00 PM (Last admission 7:30 PM)

Photo: Courtesy of Kochi Prefectural Makino Botanical Garden

Cafés and Shops

The restaurant C.L.GARDEN, located in the Plant Research and Interaction Center, offers lunch and desserts made with local ingredients in a bright space overlooking the greenery of Mount Godaisan.

At Café Arbre in the Makino Memorial Museum, visitors can enjoy cakes and sweets along with an original tea inspired by Dr. Makino.

There are also two museum shops selling books and goods featuring Makino’s botanical illustrations.

A Place to Experience Kochi’s Nature

Photo: Courtesy of Kochi Prefectural Makino Botanical Garden

Makino Botanical Garden is a place where visitors can enjoy plants while experiencing the nature and culture of Kochi.

Nearby Mount Godaisan also has an observation deck and Chikurin-ji Temple, making it a great area to explore.

If you visit Kochi, this garden is a wonderful place to spend a relaxing time surrounded by seasonal plants.

高知県立牧野植物園

Kochi Prefectural Makino Botanical Garden

Address: 4200-6 Godaisan, Kochi City, Kochi Prefecture
TEL: +81-88-882-2601

Opening Hours:
9:00 AM – 5:00 PM (Last admission 4:30 PM)

Admission:
Adults: 850 yen
High school students and younger: Free

Closed:
Dec 27 – Jan 1
Maintenance days: Feb 24, May 25, Jun 29, Jul 27, Aug 31, Sep 28, Oct 26, Nov 30, Jan 25 (2027)

Parking: Free

Access:
20 minutes by car from Kochi IC
About 30 minutes by MY-YU Bus from JR Kochi Station

The post Makino Botanical Garden: A Peaceful Nature Spot in Kochi, Japan first appeared on [Kochi Prefecture Official]The comprehensive website 'Kochike's 〇〇' provides all sorts of information about Kochi Prefecture..

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.

The post Winter Wonders in Kochi, Japan : Where Sunshine Meets Frost first appeared on [Kochi Prefecture Official]The comprehensive website 'Kochike's 〇〇' provides all sorts of information about 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!

The post Explore Kochi, Japan: 7 Must-Visit Attractions and What Makes It Unique first appeared on [Kochi Prefecture Official]The comprehensive website 'Kochike's 〇〇' provides all sorts of information about Kochi Prefecture..

Kochi's unique vibe and nostalgic charm make it stand out from other places in Japan. I quickly grew fond of it. This article will share the experiences of my second day in Kochi, including the famous Sakamoto Ryoma statue and the recently popular This article will share the experiences of my second day in Kochi, including the famous Sakamoto Ryoma statue and the recently popular Makino Botanical Garden.

Lunch on the Second Day

After enjoying drinks yesterday, I started my day late - waking up at 10 a.m., getting ready, and heading out for lunch. kind of ramen, for our meal.

- What is Nabeyaki Ramen?

Nabeyaki Ramen is a classic Japanese ramen with a soy sauce chicken broth, served in a clay pot to keep it hot. This dish stands out for its warm, nostalgic feel and the unique touch of being served in a clay pot, enhancing both flavor and warmth. This dish stands out for its warm, nostalgic feel and the unique touch of being served in a clay pot, enhancing both flavor and warmth.

Feeling excited, I went to a place my friend highly recommended.

I noticed that the prices at Kochi's local restaurants are much lower than in Tokyo!

When the Nabeyaki Ramen came, it looked delicious. The soup and noodles were hot. Normally, Nabeyaki Ramen has a chicken-based soy sauce broth, but without knowing, I ordered one with boar miso flavor. Normally, Nabeyaki Ramen has a chicken-based soy sauce broth, but without knowing, I ordered one with boar miso flavor.

This turned out to be a lucky choice - it was very tasty, especially when I mixed the noodles with a raw Japanese egg.

But, being in Kochi, I also wanted to try the traditional flavor. So, we went to another place for more Nabeyaki Ramen!

This time, it was the classic version.

Makino Botanical Garden

Next, we visited the Makino Botanical Garden. After lunch, our plan included the garden and Katsurahama Beach.

First, we went to the Makino Botanical Garden. A friend's suggestion made us curious. I had my doubts at first - "A botanical garden? I had my doubts at first - "A botanical garden?

It's just a short 30-minute drive from the city center, or you can take the MY Yū Bus that goes to tourist spots. We reached the garden soon.

The entrance to the Makino Botanical Garden was surprisingly modern and stylish.

It's named after Dr. Tomitaro Makino, whose story inspired a character in the 2023 hit morning drama "Ranman. The garden was busy with visitors, showing the drama's popularity.

Inside, the variety of plants was amazing, each with a plaque explaining the species.

The garden showcases more than plants; it also displays Dr. Makino's research and collaborations with companies.

<Photos, displays and specimens of the Makino Botanical Garden. And then there are the buildings.>

The design of the whole place was elegant, and the well-kept gardens added to the charm. - Some pictures of the Makino Botanical Garden would be great images of the building, inside views, and Dr. Makino's specimens.

Next, we looked around the research wing, opened in May 2023. They focus on developing well-known medicines in Japan. Smelling the medicinal herbs was a pleasant surprise, different from what I expected.

There are also nice shops and restaurants in the garden, perfect for a relaxed lunch or buying souvenirs.

The visit was better than I expected. The facility combined the best of a museum, art gallery, and botanical garden perfectly.

Even if you're not usually interested in botanical gardens, I recommend visiting. It's a place you must see!

KATSURAHAMA

My first trip to Katsurahama showed me a beautiful beach. It has cafes, an aquarium, and even a shrine, so it seems great for all ages! But the day I went, a typhoon was coming, and the weather was bad.

On a sunny day, it looks like this.

Before I went, I thought the beach would be calm, where families swim and play in the sand. - It was quite a scene!

Swimming is not allowed there, even when there's no typhoon. If you get too close to the water, a warning is announced - it's funny!

Katsurahama also has a statue of Sakamoto Ryoma!

It was my first time seeing Sakamoto Ryoma in Kochi since learning about him in my middle school textbooks! I can understand why he's so popular.

For Dinner on the Second Day

Tonight's dinner was at a traditional and nostalgic Izakaya in Kochi.

The atmosphere inside was perfect! Here, you can enjoy classic Japanese dishes.

I relished oden and tamagoyaki (Japanese omelette) while sipping on some drinks.

Sometimes, the simplest oden tastes the best! Next, the tamagoyaki - I believe it's the best in the world. The flavor, the way it's cooked, and the perfect balance of ingredients made it perfect.

We tried various other dishes and left with our stomachs full!

But in Japan's Izakaya culture, you move on to the next place! Our second stop was a unique yatai (street food stall). We headed there for gyoza and ramen.

The gyoza were bite-sized with a crispy texture, making them easy to eat even when you're already full.

They also had a mild-flavored soy sauce ramen - the perfect dish to end the dinner ! In Japan, there's a tradition of finishing a night out with ramen. In the end, the light soy sauce ramen was the tastiest!

After filling up at the second spot, it was finally time to go to our accommodation. With a full belly, I was ready for a good night's sleep! Look forward to the final day's article!

The post Exploring Kochi, Japan: A 3-Day Journey Through Nature, Cuisine, and History - Day 2 first appeared on [Kochi Prefecture Official]The comprehensive website 'Kochike's 〇〇' provides all sorts of information about Kochi Prefecture..