• Kochi Castle - Kochi Castle is one of the few remaining original castles in Japan, having survived both the Edo and Meiji periods when many castles were destroyed. Among the original castles, Kochi is notable for being one of only three where the original main gate still stands. Additionally, Kochi Castle is unique as it is the only castle where the lord’s reception suite remains intact. The castle boasts a rich history, with construction beginning in 1600, although most of the keep was reconstructed in 1748. While smaller compared to Himeji or Matsuyama, it is well-preserved with interesting displays inside and offers beautiful views. The castle is situated in a lovely park, popular for picnics and hanami (cherry-blossom viewing). Kochi Castle is a short walk from the Kochijomae tram stop or about a twenty-minute walk from the Harimayabashi area.
• Kochi Castle Museum of History - While most Japanese castles double as museums, Kochi has a separate museum dedicated to the castle’s history. The museum chronicles the history of the Tosa kingdom from the Warring States period through the Meiji Reformation. It features typical artwork, historical documents, and national treasures, and children can enjoy dressing up in samurai armor. The third floor also houses an observatory with a stunning view of the castle. History enthusiasts will enjoy learning more about the castle, its town, and the Tosa kingdom. A combined ticket with the castle costs 730 yen for permanent exhibits only or 890 yen during special exhibits. By itself, it’s 700 or 500 yen for special exhibits or permanent only, respectively, though the My Yu bus pass offers a discount. The museum is conveniently located right across the street from the castle, making it easy to visit both.
• The Kochi Prefectural Makino Botanical Garden - The Makino Botanical Garden was established to honor Makino Tomitaro, regarded as the father of Japanese botany. This expansive and beautiful park is an ideal place to escape the city’s hustle and bustle; visitors can easily spend hours exploring the grounds. It includes various gardens — a greenhouse, cherry blossom groves, medicinal plants, rose gardens — as well as ponds, a large lawn perfect for picnics, exhibition rooms, and cafes. Due to its size, there is always something blooming. Even when not in full bloom, it offers a pleasant and relaxing walk. Located atop Godaisan, the stunning view alone is worth the visit. Entrance is 720 yen (discount with bus pass), and it is best accessed via the My Yu bus, about twenty minutes outside the city.
• Chikurinji Temple - Chikurinji, built in 724, is one of the stops on the Shikoku pilgrimage, and as the bodhisattva enshrined there is associated with wisdom, many students visit to pray for academic success. While the temple building itself may not compare to the more famous temples in Kyoto, the five-story pagoda is beautiful and worth seeing. The tree-lined approach through the spectacular old wooden gate, passing by moss-covered lanterns, is incredibly atmospheric. In fact, the grounds are more interesting than the temple itself, and it’s worth exploring to see the small pond and collection of Buddha statues. While the temple and much of its grounds are free, the paid area also includes a treasure house with many Buddhist statues and a gorgeous Japanese-style garden. The temple is on the My Yu bus route, and if visiting the botanical garden, simply exit from the south exit (re-entry possible), where the temple is just steps away.
• Yokoyama Memorial Manga Museum - The Yokoyama Memorial Manga Museum celebrates the legacy of Yokoyama Ryuichi, the first cartoonist to be recognized as a person of cultural merit. The museum features many entertaining comic strips and interactive exhibits on his popular character, Fuku-chan. Additionally, Yokoyama’s studio, quirky home bar, and toy collection are also showcased. For an extra fee, visitors can explore the fifth floor, which contains an eclectic assortment of objects significant to Yokoyama. Even the museum information acknowledges that some items may seem like junk, and indeed, many of the items (like a rather terrifying cat onesie or a strand of leg hair) would be out of place in most museums. Nonetheless, it is sure to bring a smile to visitors’ faces. Even without prior knowledge of the character or the author, the museum is delightful and will evoke a sense of childlike wonder.
• Obiyamachi Itchome Shopping Street - Kochi’s shopping arcades are extensive, making walking to various tourist sites more exciting. Visitors can find everything they desire, and it’s a great place to grab a bite to eat or shop for souvenirs. One popular souvenir is the naruko noisemaker. Traditionally used to scare off birds in rice fields, they are now an essential part of the Yosakoi dance, with all teams required to use them. Additionally, some days feature vendors selling fresh produce and other goods. Lastly, be sure to look up and admire the wonderful banners hanging from the ceiling. The arcades start close to Kochi Station and lead through the Harimayabashi area all the way to the castle.
• Harimayabashi Shopping Street - Harimayabashi may seem rather unimpressive at first, as the bridge is only 20 meters long. However, the bridge is famous not for its appearance but for its role in a local folktale and song. According to the legend, a monk from Chikurinji fell in love with a local woman. However, due to his position as a monk, their love was forbidden, forcing them to meet in secret. One day, he was spotted buying his lover a hairpin at Harimayabashi, revealing their affair and forcing the couple into exile. The song describing this sad tale of love became part of the Yosakoi festival song, cementing itself into Kochi local culture. In the 60s, a song by Peggy Hayama was based on it, which even inspired a film adaptation, propelling the bridge and love story into national fame. Now, the bridge is one of Kochi’s main attractions, and many tourists buy hairpins here, just like in the story.
• Hirome Ichiba - Hirome Ichiba is a unique market and food court. While the building may seem small, it houses over 60 shops, many of which are restaurants or izakaya (Japanese-style pubs). Seating is arranged on long shared tables and benches. It’s a great place to enjoy local cuisine and meet new people, and the food court-style restaurants make it easy to sample many different dishes and socialize. It’s not just food and drink, though. Visitors can also purchase everything from fresh produce to souvenirs. It’s located right in front of the castle park, at the end of the shopping arcades, so access is easy. You can’t miss the maneki neko beckoning cat welcoming you inside.
• Katsurahama Ryuogu Shrine - Katsurahama is a scenic beach a little outside of Kochi City center. Due to the strong current, swimming is prohibited, but fortunately, there are other activities to enjoy in the area. One of the main attractions is the Sakamoto Ryoma museum. Sakamoto, a Kochi native, was part of the movement to overthrow the Tokugawa shogunate. One of his main achievements was helping to create an alliance between two hostile clans, Choshu (present-day Yamagata) and Satsuma (Kagoshima). When the end of the shogunate was imminent, he also assisted with the negotiations for the shogun’s resignation. Additionally, he is considered the father of the Japanese imperial navy, and his ideas were influential in the new parliamentary system, which he unfortunately did not live to see. In short, he is an important figure in Japanese history, and the museum details his life and legacy.
• Sunday Market - If visiting Kochi on a weekend, the Sunday market is a must-see. The market opened in 1690, making it the oldest outdoor market in Japan. It spans 1 kilometer from Otesuji Avenue to Kochi Castle and includes over 500 stalls. Vegetables, fruit, and other local produce are the most popular items sold, but visitors can also purchase fish, handicrafts, and knives. It’s a great place to sample local dishes and experience local life.
• Ryugado Cave - Ryugado Cave is one of Japan’s three major limestone caves, located in Kochi Prefecture, and stretches over four kilometers with stunning stalactites and underground formations shaped over 175 million years. It also holds historical significance, with remains from Japan’s Yayoi period discovered inside, showcasing its blend of natural wonder and 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.