Kōchi,
Kōchi, located in southern Japan on the island of Shikoku, is known for its lush greenery and scenic coastlines. The city is famous for its historic castle, Kōchi Castle, which offers panoramic views of the surrounding area. Kōchi is also renowned for its Yosakoi Dance Festival, a vibrant celebration of traditional and modern dance performances.
With its pleasant climate, delicious local cuisine, and friendly atmosphere, Kōchi is a delightful destination for travelers seeking a mix of cultural experiences and natural beauty.
Key Phrases
Speak like a local
- "こんにちは" - Hello
- "ありがとう" - Thank you
- "おはよう" - Good morning
- "こんばんは" - Good evening
- "さようなら" - Goodbye
Day plans
Spend a day exploring around
Exploring the City
morning:Start your day with a visit to Kōchi Castle, one of the most picturesque castles in Japan. Afterward, savor a traditional Japanese breakfast at the local restaurant nearby. Don't miss out on trying the savory tamagoyaki!
afternoon:In the afternoon, stroll through the charming streets of old town Kōchi and explore the historic Harimayabashi Bridge. Enjoy a delightful lunch at a local sushi restaurant known for its fresh and delectable seafood dishes.
evening:As the evening approaches, head to Hirome Ichiba for a lively food market experience. Savor a variety of local delicacies from the numerous stalls and mingle with locals. Wrap up the day with a visit to the vibrant nightlife scene in Obiyamachi.
Cultural Immersion
morning:Start your day with a peaceful stroll through Kōchi's Makino Botanical Garden, surrounded by verdant landscapes and a rich diversity of plant species. Treat yourself to a scrumptious breakfast at a cozy café located within the garden premises.
afternoon:Explore the engaging exhibits at the Kōchi Prefectural Museum of History, providing insights into the region's captivating past. Then, relish a delightful lunch featuring local delicacies at the museum's elegant restaurant.
evening:Indulge in an authentic Japanese tea ceremony experience at a traditional teahouse, learning about the intricate customs and rituals. As the day winds down, savor a tranquil dinner at a serene, traditional Japanese restaurant.
Nature and Serenity
morning:Embark on an early morning hike up Mt. Godai and revel in the breathtaking panoramic views of Kōchi and the surrounding natural beauty. Treat yourself to a hearty breakfast at a charming café nestled in the mountain foothills.
afternoon:Discover the enchanting beauty of Katurahama Beach, where you can bask in the serene coastal atmosphere and take a leisurely walk along the sandy shores. Enjoy a leisurely seafood lunch at a beachfront restaurant.
evening:Spend the serene evening at the serene Zenjibuji Temple, immersing in the tranquility of the surrounding gardens and taking part in a peaceful meditation session. Conclude the day with a delightful dinner overlooking the moonlit beach.
Gastronomic Delights
morning:Embark on a gastronomic adventure at Kōchi's bustling local market, sampling an array of freshly prepared street food and authentic local delicacies. Sip on a energizing matcha latte to kickstart your day.
afternoon:Immerse yourself in a captivating culinary experience by taking a hands-on sushi-making class at a traditional Japanese restaurant. Learn the art of crafting delectable sushi from expert chefs and savor your skillfully prepared creations.
evening:Indulge in a delightful dinner at a renowned kaiseki restaurant, where you can savor an exquisite multi-course meal showcasing the finest seasonal ingredients and culinary craftsmanship.
Kōchi Famous Food
Must-Try local dishes
Katsuo no tataki
Katsuo no tataki is a dish of lightly seared bonito, typically served with garlic, ginger, and citrus-based ponzu sauce. For a truly authentic experience, head to Hirome Market in downtown Kōchi where you'll find several stalls offering this local delicacy.
Must-Try!
Yuzu-flavored dishes
Kōchi is renowned for its use of yuzu, a fragrant citrus fruit. Don't miss the opportunity to try yuzu-flavored dishes such as yuzu shio ramen, yuzu kosho (a paste made from yuzu zest and chili peppers), and yuzu ice cream at various eateries across the city.
Sawachi cuisine
Sawachi refers to a platter of various local ingredients such as sashimi, tempura, and other seafood delicacies. To savor the best Sawachi cuisine, visit traditional restaurants like Ajirakuya, situated in the heart of Kōchi.
Food Markets & Street Food
A food market and street food guide
Obiyamachi Shopping Arcade
For an authentic street food experience, head to Obiyamachi Shopping Arcade, which is lined with stalls and shops selling a variety of local snacks and dishes, including takoyaki (octopus balls), yakisoba (stir-fried noodles), and imagawayaki (sweet stuffed pancakes).
Pet sitters in Kōchi
Relax and unwind while your furry friend enjoys making a new companion!