• Kochi Castle - Kochi Castle is one of the few original castles still standing in Japan, having survived both the Edo and Meiji periods when many castles were demolished. Among the original castles, Kochi is distinguished as one of only three with the original main gate intact. Additionally, it is the only castle where the lord’s reception suite is preserved. The castle’s history dates back to 1600, with most of the keep reconstructed in 1748. Although smaller than Himeji or Matsuyama, it is well-maintained with interesting displays and stunning views. The castle is nestled in a lovely park, popular for picnics and cherry-blossom viewing. It is a short walk from the Kochijomae tram stop or about a twenty-minute walk from the Harimayabashi area.
• Kochi Castle Museum of History - Unlike most Japanese castles that serve as museums, Kochi has a separate museum dedicated to its history. The museum explores the history of the Tosa kingdom from the Warring States period to the Meiji Reformation, featuring artwork, historical documents, and national treasures. Children can enjoy dressing up in samurai armor. The third floor offers an observatory with a beautiful view of the castle. History enthusiasts will appreciate learning about the castle, its town, and the Tosa kingdom. A combined ticket with the castle costs 730 yen for permanent exhibits or 890 yen during special exhibits. Alone, it’s 700 or 500 yen for special or permanent exhibits, respectively, with a discount available via the My Yu bus pass. The museum is conveniently located across the street from the castle.
• The Kochi Prefectural Makino Botanical Garden - The Makino Botanical Garden was established to honor Makino Tomitaro, the father of Japanese botany. This expansive and beautiful park is an ideal escape from city life, offering hours of exploration. It features various gardens, including a greenhouse, cherry blossom groves, medicinal plants, rose gardens, ponds, a large picnic-friendly lawn, exhibition rooms, and cafes. With its size, there’s always something in bloom. Even without flowers, it’s a pleasant and relaxing walk. Located atop Godaisan, the breathtaking view is worth the visit. Entrance is 720 yen (discount with bus pass), and it’s best accessed via the My Yu bus, about twenty minutes from the city.
• Chikurinji Temple - Built in 724, Chikurinji is a stop on the Shikoku pilgrimage. The bodhisattva enshrined here is associated with wisdom, attracting students who pray for academic success. While the temple building may not rival Kyoto’s famous temples, the five-story pagoda is stunning. The tree-lined approach through the old wooden gate, past moss-covered lanterns, is atmospheric. The grounds are more intriguing than the temple itself, with a small pond and Buddha statues. While much of the grounds are free, the paid area includes a treasure house with Buddhist statues and a beautiful Japanese garden. The temple is on the My Yu bus route, and if visiting the botanical garden, exit from the south to find the temple nearby.
• Yokoyama Memorial Manga Museum - The Yokoyama Memorial Manga Museum celebrates Yokoyama Ryuichi, the first cartoonist recognized as a person of cultural merit. The museum features entertaining comic strips and interactive exhibits on his popular character, Fuku-chan. Yokoyama’s studio, quirky home bar, and toy collection are also displayed. For an extra fee, visitors can explore the fifth floor, which houses an eclectic collection of items significant to Yokoyama. While some items may seem unusual, they are sure to bring a smile. Even without prior knowledge of the character or author, the museum is delightful and evokes a sense of childlike wonder.
• Obiyamachi Itchome Shopping Street - Kochi’s shopping arcades are extensive, making the walk to various tourist sites more enjoyable. It’s a great place to find anything desired, grab a bite, or shop for souvenirs. A popular souvenir is the naruko noisemaker, traditionally used to scare birds in rice fields but now essential in the Yosakoi dance. Occasionally, vendors sell fresh produce and other goods. Be sure to admire the beautiful banners hanging from the ceiling. The arcades start near Kochi Station and lead through the Harimayabashi area to the castle.
• Harimayabashi Shopping Street - Harimayabashi may initially seem unimpressive, with its small 20-meter bridge. However, its fame comes from a local folktale and song. The legend tells of a monk from Chikurinji who fell in love with a local woman. Their forbidden love led to secret meetings, but one day, the monk was seen buying a hairpin for his lover at Harimayabashi, revealing their affair and forcing them into exile. The song about this love story became part of the Yosakoi festival song, embedding itself in Kochi’s culture. In the 60s, a song by Peggy Hayama inspired a film adaptation, bringing national fame to the bridge and story. Today, the bridge is a major attraction, with tourists buying hairpins as in the tale.
• Hirome Ichiba - Hirome Ichiba is a unique market and food court. Despite its small appearance, it houses over 60 shops, many of which are restaurants or izakaya (Japanese-style pubs). Seating is communal, with long tables and benches. It’s a fantastic place to enjoy local cuisine and meet new people, with food court-style restaurants offering a variety of dishes. Besides food and drink, visitors can purchase fresh produce and souvenirs. Located in front of the castle park, at the end of the shopping arcades, it’s easily accessible. The welcoming maneki neko beckoning cat is hard to miss.
• Katsurahama Ryuogu Shrine - Katsurahama is a picturesque beach just outside Kochi City center. Swimming is prohibited due to strong currents, but there are other attractions. The Sakamoto Ryoma museum is a highlight. Sakamoto, a Kochi native, played a key role in overthrowing the Tokugawa shogunate. He helped form an alliance between the Choshu and Satsuma clans and negotiated the shogun’s resignation. Considered the father of the Japanese imperial navy, his ideas influenced the new parliamentary system, though he didn’t live to see it. The museum details his life and legacy, making it a must-visit for history enthusiasts.
• Sunday Market - The Sunday market in Kochi is a must-visit if you’re in town on a weekend. Established in 1690, it’s Japan’s oldest outdoor market, stretching 1 kilometer from Otesuji Avenue to Kochi Castle with over 500 stalls. While vegetables, fruit, and local produce are popular, visitors can also find fish, handicrafts, and knives. It’s an excellent place to sample local dishes and experience local life.
• Ryugado Cave - Ryugado Cave, one of Japan’s three major limestone caves, is located in Kochi Prefecture. It spans over four kilometers, featuring stunning stalactites and underground formations shaped over 175 million years. The cave holds historical significance, with remains from Japan’s Yayoi period discovered inside, blending natural wonder with cultural heritage. Only the sightseeing course is available with this tour; the adventure course is not included.

• Private vehicle
• Licensed Local Guide
• Customizable Tour of your choice of 3-4 sites from ‘What to expect’ list

• Entrance fees, Lunch, and Other personal expenses
• You cannot combine multiple tour groups.
• Guide Entry fees are only covered for sights listed under What to Expect.

This excursion is tailored for tourists arriving in Kochi via cruise ship. We offer pickups from Kochi Shin Port and nearby accommodations.

Kochi is an intelligent, small-scale city known for its lively atmosphere. The castle in Kochi, largely intact, stands as a remarkable testament to Japanese architecture. With superb connectivity to Muroto-Misaki, Ashizuri-misaki, the Iya Valley and easy access for day trips to caves, beaches, and mountains, Kochi is an excellent starting point for exploring the island.

Let us understand your preferences to craft a custom six-hour tour that suits you best!

Note1: Please choose your preferred attractions from the options provided in the tour details to build your personalized itinerary.
Note2: The National Government Guide Interpreter certificate is conferred by the Japanese government to those who possess extensive knowledge and comprehension of Japanese culture and history.

• There are only a limited number of car seats and booster seats. Rear-facing car seats are not available. You must contact us directly if you need them.

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.