{"id":348855,"date":"2025-08-08T20:32:53","date_gmt":"2025-08-08T11:32:53","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/kochike.jp\/?post_type=column&p=348855"},"modified":"2025-08-08T20:49:52","modified_gmt":"2025-08-08T11:49:52","slug":"kashiwajima-a-hidden-paradise-in-southwestern-kochi","status":"publish","type":"column","link":"https:\/\/kochike.jp\/en\/column\/348855\/","title":{"rendered":"Kashiwajima \u2013 A Hidden Paradise in Southwestern Kochi"},"content":{"rendered":"

What is Kashiwajima island\uff1f<\/h2>\r\n

\"\"Photos courtesy of Kochi Prefecture Tourism Convention Association (\u5199\u771f\u63d0\u4f9b\uff1a(\u516c\u8ca1)\u9ad8\u77e5\u770c\u89b3\u5149\u30b3\u30f3\u30d9\u30f3\u30b7\u30e7\u30f3\u5354\u4f1a)<\/p>\r\n

Kashiwajima is a small island, only 4 kilometers in circumference, located at the very tip of the Otsuki Peninsula in southwestern Kochi Prefecture.<\/p>\r\n

From Kochi City, it takes about 2 hours and 40 minutes by car. The route follows a scenic coastal road, where the Pacific Ocean sparkles under the sunlight. As you pass through quiet fishing villages and winding headlands, the drive itself becomes part of the journey. Then, after a short tunnel, the view suddenly opens\u2014revealing a breathtaking stretch of crystal-clear, emerald-green sea.<\/p>\r\n

The most striking feature of Kashiwajima is its stunningly transparent water. On a calm day, visibility can reach up to 40 meters, with an average of 20 meters year-round. The clarity is so remarkable that boats anchored offshore appear to be floating in the air\u2014a sight that has made the island famous on social media.<\/p>\r\n

\"\"Photos courtesy of Kochi Prefecture Tourism Convention Association\u00a0 (\u5199\u771f\u63d0\u4f9b\uff1a(\u516c\u8ca1)\u9ad8\u77e5\u770c\u89b3\u5149\u30b3\u30f3\u30d9\u30f3\u30b7\u30e7\u30f3\u5354\u4f1a)<\/p>\r\n

The sea here owes its color and purity to several factors:<\/p>\r\n

\r\n

\u30fbThe warm, clean waters of the Kuroshio Current carry very few plankton, keeping the sea clear.
\r\n\u30fbNo large rivers flow into the area, so there is no muddy water or domestic wastewater.
\r\n\u30fbThe island is far from major cities, with little human impact.<\/p>\r\n<\/div>\r\n

 <\/p>\r\n

\"\u67cf\u5cf6\"<\/p>\r\n

Kashiwajima is also home to about one-third of all fish species found in Japan. Coral reefs flourish along the northern coast, and tropical fish in brilliant colors move among them. Divers from all over the world come to explore this underwater paradise, making it one of Japan\u2019s top diving destinations. Even beginners can join guided courses offered by local dive shops.<\/p>\r\n

Things to Do in Kashiwajima, Kochi<\/h2>\r\n

Enjoy Marine Activities<\/h3>\r\n

Kashiwajima is a hub for marine leisure. You can swim on white sandy beaches, snorkel among colorful fish, or dive to explore coral reefs. Stand-up paddleboarding (SUP) and glass-bottom boat tours are also popular options.<\/p>\r\n

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For diving and snorkeling, equipment rentals are available with advance reservation<\/strong>, making it easy for both beginners and families to enjoy the water. Many shops offer trial diving courses, and you can even obtain a full diving license during your stay. The meeting of the Kuroshio Current and the Bungo Channel creates an environment where a wide variety of marine life can be observed in one location.<\/p>\r\n

\"\u30c0\u30a4\u30d3\u30f3\u30b0\"<\/p>\r\n

\"\u30b5\u30c3\u30d7\"<\/p>\r\n

Rock Fishing at a Movie Location<\/h3>\r\n

\"\u78ef\u91e3\u308a\"<\/p>\r\n

While known for its diving, Kashiwajima is also a prime spot for rock fishing. It even appeared as a filming location in the popular Japanese movie Tsuribaka Nisshi. Around the island, you\u2019ll find fishing points ranging from calm coastal rocks to more challenging offshore areas, where you can target large species like striped beakfish, black porgy, and grunt.<\/p>\r\n

Taste the Local Seafood<\/h3>\r\n

\"\"<\/p>\r\n

Fresh seafood is one of the highlights of visiting Kashiwajima.<\/p>\r\n

Uogokoro \u2013 A restaurant serving fisherman-style dishes, especially fresh sea bream. Address: 1096-2 Kashiwajima, Otsuki Town.<\/p>\r\n

Uogokoro \u2013 Details<\/strong><\/p>\r\n

Address:<\/strong> 1096-2 Kashiwajima, Otsuki Town, Hata District, Kochi Prefecture 788-0343, Japan
\r\nTel:<\/strong> +81-880-76-0077
\r\nHours:<\/strong> 11:30 \u2013 15:00 (Reservations required after 15:00)
\r\nClosed:<\/strong> Tuesdays (Closed on other days in case of bad weather)<\/p>\r\n

 <\/p>\r\n

Michi-no-Eki Otsuki \u2013 A roadside station where you can buy fresh seafood at the market and have it prepared into a set meal at the restaurant upstairs.<\/p>\r\n

Michi-no-Eki Otsuki \u2013 Details<\/strong><\/p>\r\n

Address:<\/strong> 2610 Hiromi, Otsuki Town, Hata District, Kochi Prefecture 788-0302, Japan
\r\nTel:<\/strong> +81-880-73-1610
\r\nHours:<\/strong>
\r\n\u30fbShop: 8:30 \u2013 17:00
\r\n\u30fbMarket: 8:30 \u2013 18:00
\r\nClosed:<\/strong> Shop & Market \u2013 From the afternoon of December 31 to January 2
\r\nOfficial Website:<\/strong> https:\/\/www.furepa.jp\/<\/a><\/p>\r\n

 <\/p>\r\n

Try Tokoroten, Kochi Style<\/h3>\r\n

\"\u3068\u3053\u308d\u3066\u3093\"<\/p>\r\n

Tokoroten is a jelly-like noodle made from seaweed. In many parts of Japan, it is eaten sweet with syrup, but in Kochi it is served savory, with bonito broth. Try it at Okonomi Kimi<\/strong>, where the seaweed used is dried in the sun just outside the shop.<\/p>\r\n

\"\u30c6\u30f3\u30af\u3099\u30b5\u5e72\u3057\"<\/p>\r\n

Okonomi Kimi \u2013 Details<\/strong><\/p>\r\n

Address:<\/strong> 149-2 Kashiwajima, Otsuki Town, Hata District, Kochi Prefecture 788-0343, Japan
\r\nTel:<\/strong> +81-880-76-0453
\r\nHours:<\/strong> 9:30 \u2013 around 18:00
\r\nClosed:<\/strong> Irregular holidays<\/p>\r\n

Diving in Kashiwajima<\/h2>\r\n

\"\" \u00a0\u00a0<\/p>\r\n

Located where the Kuroshio Current meets the Bungo Channel, Kashiwajima<\/strong> is home to an extraordinary variety of fish species, making it especially popular for diving and snorkeling.<\/p>\r\n

In addition to its beautiful coral reefs, lucky visitors may even encounter sea turtles. During peak seasons, reservations at local dive shops can be difficult to secure.<\/p>\r\n

If you come to Kashiwajima, diving or snorkeling is something you shouldn\u2019t miss.<\/p>\r\n

Here is an example of a trial diving program offered by AQUAS:<\/strong><\/p>\r\n

Items to Bring:<\/strong> Swimsuit, towel
\r\nParticipants:<\/strong> 1 person or more
\r\nDuration:<\/strong> About 2 hours 30 minutes
\r\nSeason:<\/strong> April \u2013 November
\r\nEligibility:<\/strong> Ages 10 \u2013 59
\r\nFee:<\/strong> \u00a512,800 (tax excluded)<\/p>\r\n

As you can see, all you need is a swimsuit and a towel, making it easy to enjoy diving without special preparation. The reasonable price is also a plus.<\/p>\r\n

One thing to keep in mind: in the summer season, reservations fill up quickly, so be sure to book early. If you plan to enjoy diving or snorkeling in Kashiwajima, make your arrangements in advance and experience this famous scenic spot to the fullest.<\/p>\r\n

Tips for Swimming and Snorkeling<\/h2>\r\n

Some areas around Kashiwajima are off-limits for swimming due to strong currents or boat traffic. Always stay within the designated swimming zones marked by buoys, and do not jump from the bridges.<\/p>\r\n

Safe swimming spots include:<\/p>\r\n

\u30fbRyugahama Campground Beach
\r\n\u30fbShirahama Beach
\r\n\u30fbThe area near Kashiwajima Bridge<\/p>\r\n

 <\/p>\r\n

Odoyama Observatory \u2013 A Panoramic Viewpoint<\/h2>\r\n

\"\u5927\u5802\u5c71\u5c55\u671b\u53f0\"<\/p>\r\n

Famous as one of the most scenic spots at the far edge of Shikoku, Odoyama Observatory<\/strong> is a must-visit photo spot when traveling to Kashiwajima.<\/p>\r\n

From here, you can enjoy one of the finest panoramic views not only in Kochi but in all of Shikoku. With no mountains blocking the horizon, you can gaze down at both Kashiwajima and Okinoshima in a single sweeping view.<\/p>\r\n

Odoyama Observatory \u2013 Details
\r\n<\/strong>Address<\/strong>: Issai, Otsuki Town, Hata District, Kochi Prefecture 788-0342, Japan<\/p>\r\n

Camping by the Sea<\/h2>\r\n

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For those who enjoy the outdoors, Ryugahama Campground<\/strong> is just 30 seconds from the beach. Facilities include showers, BBQ gear, and snorkeling spots rich with fish and crabs. Tent sites accommodate up to six people for a reasonable nightly fee.<\/p>\r\n

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Ryugahama Campground \u2013 Details<\/p>\r\n

Address:<\/strong> 1001-1 Kashiwajima, Otsuki Town, Hata District, Kochi Prefecture 788-0343, Japan
\r\nHours:<\/strong> 9:00\u201317:00 (Reception Hours)
\r\nTel:<\/strong> +81-880-76-0607
\r\nOfficial Website:<\/strong> https:\/\/ryugahama-camp.jp\/<\/p>\r\n

 <\/p>\r\n

Stay in a Local Guesthouse<\/h2>\r\n

Kashiwajima has no large hotels, but its minshuku (family-run guesthouses) offer warm hospitality and freshly prepared local meals. Popular options include:<\/p>\r\n

Tokuda Ryokan<\/h3>\r\n

\"\u5fb3\u7530\u65c5\u9928\"<\/p>\r\n

Known for homestyle cooking with local seafood.<\/p>\r\n

Tokuda Ryokan \u2013 Details<\/strong><\/p>\r\n

Address:<\/strong> 27 Kashiwajima, Otsuki Town, Hata District, Kochi Prefecture 788-0343, Japan
\r\nTel:<\/strong> +81-880-76-0040<\/p>\r\n

Yamatoya<\/h3>\r\n

\"\u5927\u548c\u5c4b\"<\/p>\r\n

A cozy inn with hearty breakfasts.<\/p>\r\n

Yamatoya Ryokan \u2013 Details<\/strong><\/p>\r\n

Address:<\/strong> 15 Kashiwajima, Otsuki Town, Hata District, Kochi Prefecture 788-0343, Japan
\r\nTel:<\/strong> +81-880-76-0016<\/p>\r\n

Sanbun Inn<\/h3>\r\n

\"\u65c5\u9928<\/p>\r\n

Convenient for divers and anglers.<\/p>\r\n

Kashiwajima Ryokan Sanbun \u2013 Details<\/strong>
\r\nAddress:<\/strong> 641-2 Kashiwajima, Otsuki Town, Hata District, Kochi Prefecture 788-0343, Japan
\r\nTel:<\/strong> +81-880-76-0110<\/p>\r\n

 <\/p>\r\n

Mikamiya<\/h3>\r\n

\"\u7f8e\u6d77\u5c4b\"<\/p>\r\n

Located on the opposite shore, with relaxing views of the island.<\/p>\r\n

Kashiwajima Umi-no-Yado Mikamiya \u2013 Details<\/strong>
\r\n
\r\nAddress:<\/strong> 1096-26 Kashiwajima, Otsuki Town, Hata District, Kochi Prefecture 788-0343, Japan
\r\nTel:<\/strong> +81-880-76-0372<\/p>\r\n

Location of Kashiwajima<\/span><\/h2>\r\n

Address<\/strong>: Kashiwajima, Otsuki Town, Hata District, Kochi Prefecture 788-0343, Japan
\r\nOfficial Website<\/strong>: https:\/\/www.town.otsuki.kochi.jp\/kanko\/info\/kashiwajima.php<\/a><\/p>\r\n