Kochi

Kochi, the lively capital of Kochi Prefecture on Shikoku Island, is famed for its samurai heritage, scenic rivers, and lively local culture. Kochi Castle, one of the few castles in Japan with the original main keep, stands at the heart of the city. The Sunday Market, stretching over a kilometer, is a treasure trove of local produce and crafts. The nearby Katsurahama Beach offers picturesque ocean views and a statue of Sakamoto Ryoma, a revolutionary figure born in Kochi. The region is also beloved for its hearty cuisine, especially katsuo no tataki (seared bonito).

Muroto, located at the southeastern tip of Kochi Prefecture, is known for its dramatic coastal cliffs formed by tectonic uplift and its designation as a UNESCO Global Geopark. Cape Muroto offers sweeping ocean views and spiritual spots like Hotsumisaki-ji Temple, one of the Shikoku 88 Pilgrimage sites. The city also promotes wellness tourism through thalassotherapy (marine therapy). Muroto's peaceful fishing villages and fresh seafood, particularly bonito and spiny lobster, enhance its charm as a coastal retreat.

Tosa, rich in natural beauty and samurai history, lies in central Kochi Prefecture. The region is associated with legendary figures like Sakamoto Ryoma and preserves the traditional spirit of the Tosa domain. With lush mountains, pristine rivers, and the scenic Niyodo River—famous for its dazzling "Niyodo Blue"—Tosa is ideal for outdoor activities like kayaking and trekking. The area’s deep-rooted culture and local delicacies, such as citrus fruits and mountain vegetables, make for a wholesome rural experience.

Shimanto is known as the home of the Shimanto River, often called "Japan’s last clear stream." Flowing gently through unspoiled nature, the river supports traditional life and ecological harmony. Visitors can enjoy canoeing, fishing, and cycling along the riverbanks, while scenic "chinkabashi" (low water bridges) offer perfect photo opportunities. The area is also known for eel cuisine, locally grown tea, and a relaxed rural lifestyle that reflects old Japan.

Umaji is a small village nestled deep in the mountains of Kochi, celebrated for its yuzu citrus cultivation and eco-friendly living. The village's iconic yuzu products—from juice to cosmetics—are sustainably produced and widely acclaimed. Umaji also focuses on community-centered tourism, offering hands-on workshops, forest therapy walks, and stays at traditional inns. Surrounded by cedar forests and clean streams, the village is a sanctuary for those seeking tranquility and authentic rural hospitality.

Niyodogawa is renowned for the breathtaking "Niyodo Blue," a term that describes the strikingly clear and blue waters of the Niyodo River. Located in central Kochi Prefecture, this town is a paradise for nature lovers and adventurers. Visitors can enjoy river trekking, kayaking, and forest walks through cedar and cypress woods. The area is also known for traditional washi paper-making and tranquil mountain temples that offer a serene spiritual experience.

Kuroshio, located on the southwestern coast of Kochi, is celebrated for its unspoiled beaches and powerful ocean currents that shape its dramatic coastline. The town is a hotspot for surfing, whale watching, and enjoying seasonal seafood like katsuo (bonito). Sunsets over the Pacific are spectacular, and the relaxed fishing village atmosphere is deeply connected to ocean traditions. Kuroshio is also proactive in environmental education and coastal conservation.