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..

写真提供：（公財）高知県観光コンベンション協会

Kochi Sunday Market is a large open-air street market held every Sunday in the center of Kochi City, on the island of Shikoku, Japan.

The market stretches for about 1 kilometer along Otesuji Street, near Kochi Castle, and features around 300 stalls. Every week, more than 17,000 people visit — locals buying fresh food for the week and travelers eager to experience Kochi’s culture up close.

What makes Sunday Market truly special is its history.
Founded in 1690, it has been held for over 330 years, making it the longest-running street market in Japan.

What It’s Like to Visit Kochi Sunday Market

Visiting Nichiyoichi feels less like sightseeing and more like stepping into everyday Kochi life.

You’ll see farmers arranging freshly harvested vegetables, locals chatting casually with vendors, and visitors strolling slowly while eating street food. The atmosphere is relaxed, friendly, and lively — conversations happen naturally, even if you don’t speak Japanese.

As you walk down the long boulevard, the scenery keeps changing: colorful produce, sizzling food stalls, handmade tools, flowers, and the smell of fried sweet potatoes drifting through the air.

Why Kochi Sunday Market Is So Special

Kochi Sunday Market is not a market created for tourists — it is a place locals genuinely rely on.

・It is officially operated by Kochi City
・It has continued almost every Sunday for over three centuries
・It is considered the longest street market in Japan

While many traditional markets have disappeared, Kochi Sunday Market remains an essential part of local life, which is why the experience feels authentic and alive.

What You Can Find at the Market

Although food is a major highlight, Nichiyoichi offers much more than snacks.

・Fresh vegetables and fruit from local farms
・Ready-to-eat street food and traditional dishes
・Local crafts, tools, and everyday goods
・Flowers, plants, and seasonal items

Sweet Potato Tempura (Imo-ten)

One of Kochi’s most famous street foods.

Imo-ten is made from locally grown sweet potatoes, coated in a light batter and fried until crispy. The outside is crunchy, while the inside stays soft and naturally sweet.

The stall Ohira Shoten is especially popular and often has a line, but service is fast. Many locals say this snack is addictive once you try it.

Inaka-zushi (Country-Style Sushi)

A regional specialty unique to Kochi.

Instead of seafood, inaka-zushi uses mountain vegetables such as bamboo shoots, shiitake mushrooms, myoga ginger, and konjac. The rice is lightly seasoned with citrus like yuzu or mandarin orange, giving it a refreshing flavor.

Each stall prepares it differently, so tasting several versions is part of the experience.

Ice Kurin

A nostalgic local dessert perfect for warm days.

Ice kurin is lighter than regular ice cream and closer to a sorbet. It is mildly sweet, refreshing, and available in several flavors — ideal for a short break while exploring the market.

Ame-yu (Sweet Ginger Drink)

A traditional drink made with starch syrup and fresh ginger juice.

・Served cold in summer
・Served hot in winter

It gently warms or cools the body and is a comforting local favorite rarely found outside western Japan.

Imo-kenpi & Shio-kenpi

Deep-fried sweet potato sticks coated in syrup.

・Imo-kenpi: sweet and crunchy
・Shio-kenpi: lightly salted, with a balanced sweet-salty taste

They are popular souvenirs and enjoyed by all generations.

Tosa Knives

Nichiyoichi is known for Tosa forged knives, a traditional craft with over 400 years of history. These knives are durable, practical, and surprisingly affordable.

A popular souvenir is the whale-shaped knife, reflecting Kochi’s historical connection to whaling.

Dried Fish(Himono)

Stalls sell a wide variety of dried fish from the Tosa coast. Horse mackerel is especially popular and often sells out before noon.

Flowers and Plants

From cut flowers to seedlings and bonsai, these stalls show another side of everyday Kochi life and are especially loved by local residents.

Mochi Rice Cakes

Colorful mochi flavored with shrimp, mugwort, red beans, or brown sugar make great snacks or souvenirs.

Ginger and Yuzu Products

Kochi is Japan’s top producer of ginger.

You’ll find ginger ale made with local ginger, as well as yuzu vinegar (yunosu), a staple seasoning used in dishes like bonito tataki.

How to Get There

From JR Kochi Station

・About 10 minutes on foot
・Or take the Tosaden Tram to Hasuikemachi-dori stop

From Kochi Airport

・Airport bus to Hasuikemachi stop
・Short walk to Otesuji Street

Final Thoughts

Kochi Sunday Market is more than a place to shop.
It is a weekly gathering where history, food, and everyday life come together.

From crispy sweet potato tempura to friendly conversations with local vendors, Kochi Sunday Market offers a side of Kochi that guidebooks alone cannot show.

If you are in Kochi on a weekend, Sunday morning belongs to Kochi Sunday Market.

Practical Information

Location
Otesuji Street, Kochi City
(From Kochi Castle’s Otemon Gate, walk east for about 1 km)

Hours
Around 6:00 AM – 3:00 PM
Best time to visit: 8:00 AM – 12:00 PM

Open
Every Sunday
Closed on: January 1–2, During the Yosakoi Festival (Aug 10–12, if they fall on Sunday)

The market is usually held rain or shine.

The post Kochi Sunday Market: A 330-Year-Old Street Market at the Heart of Local Life first appeared on [Kochi Prefecture Official]The comprehensive website 'Kochike's 〇〇' provides all sorts of information about Kochi Prefecture..