Kochi City (高知) is the capital and largest city of Kochi Prefecture, located on the southern coast of the island of Shikoku in Japan. The city has a population of around 335,000 people and is known for its beautiful natural scenery, historic sites, and cultural attractions.
One of the most famous attractions in Kochi City is Kochi Castle (高知城), which was built in the early 17th century and is considered one of the few castles in Japan with its original keep still intact. The castle is surrounded by beautiful gardens and is a popular spot for cherry blossom viewing in the spring.
Another popular attraction is the Sunday Market (日曜市), held every Sunday along a street that stretches for about 1.3 kilometers. It features over 500 vendors selling a variety of local produce, plants, food, crafts, and souvenirs. The market is a great place to try local specialties like katsuo no tataki (seared bonito) and dishes made with yuzu citrus, and to experience the lively atmosphere of the city.
Kochi City is also home to several museums, including the Sakamoto Ryoma Memorial Museum (坂本龍馬記念館), which honors the life and legacy of the famous samurai and political figure Sakamoto Ryoma, and the Yosakoi Information Exchange Center (よさこい情報交流館), which showcases the history and vibrant costumes of the Yosakoi dance, a unique and energetic dance style that originated in Kochi.
In addition to its cultural attractions, Kochi City is surrounded by beautiful natural scenery. The Shimanto River (四万十川), known for its clear water and picturesque landscapes, offers activities like kayaking and stand-up paddleboarding. Cape Ashizuri (足摺岬), the southernmost point of Shikoku, is a popular destination for hiking and enjoying breathtaking ocean views.
Attractions in Kochi
Getting there
By Air
- Kochi Ryoma Airport has flights from Tokyo (Haneda), Osaka (Itami), Fukuoka, and Nagoya
- From the airport, take an airport bus to JR Kochi Station (about 40 minutes)
By Train
- From Tokyo: Take the Tokaido/Sanyo Shinkansen to Okayama Station, then transfer to the JR Nanpu limited express to Kochi Station (total journey about 5 hours)
- From Osaka/Kyoto: Take the Shinkansen to Okayama, then the JR Nanpu limited express to Kochi
By Bus
- Overnight buses operate from Tokyo to Kochi (11-12 hours, around 13,000 yen one-way)
- Highway buses connect Kochi with Osaka, Kobe, and Kyoto
Local Transportation
- Kochi has a tram system with three lines, convenient for exploring the city
- Local buses connect to popular tourist sites like Katsurahama Beach
- The Yosakoi Gururin Bus circles downtown for 100 yen per ride
Kochi Station serves as the main transportation hub for the city and surrounding areas.