Reader’s Question:

Question about Domestic Travel

Travel Plans to Kochi Prefecture

I will be traveling to Kochi Prefecture from August 12th to August 14th. On the 12th, I plan to stay in Kochi City and do some sightseeing. On the
13th, I intend to stay near Cape Ashizuri. I’m not very good at planning travel itineraries, so I would appreciate any recommendations for sightseeing courses. I will be departing from the Kinki region and plan to leave early in the morning. Thank you in advance!

Exploring Kochi Prefecture: A Journey to Remember

If you’re anything like me, planning a trip can feel a bit overwhelming. I mean, where do you even begin? But I promise you, Kochi Prefecture is one of those places that will make all your travel planning efforts completely worth it. With its lush landscapes, rich history, and mouth-watering food, it’s a hidden gem in Japan that’s just waiting to be explored. So let me take you along my journey through Kochi from August 12th to 14th, and share some of my favorite spots and tips with you!

Day 1: Kochi City – A Blend of Culture and Nature

I left the Kinki region bright and early on the 12th. I was a little nervous—I mean, traveling in Japan can be such a breeze, but I always have that bit of anxiety before a trip. Would I find the right train? Would I get lost? Spoiler alert: I didn’t, but I definitely had my moments! Once I arrived in Kochi City, I was immediately struck by the laid-back vibe of the place. The first stop on my itinerary was the famous Kochi Castle. Now, let me tell you, this castle is something special. It’s one of the few remaining castles in Japan that still has its original wooden structure, which gives it a charming authenticity. Climbing up to the top offers stunning views of the city and even the mountains in the distance. I spent quite a bit of time wandering around the castle grounds, feeling like I’d time-traveled back to the Edo period. After soaking in all that history, I was starving. Kochi is known for its delicious local cuisine, and I couldn’t pass up the chance to try some katsuo no tataki (seared bonito). I headed over to Hirome Market, a lively place filled with food stalls, shops, and an electric atmosphere. The tataki was beautifully presented, with a side of garlic and a sprinkle of green onion. I think I could eat it every day and never get tired of it! With my belly full, I strolled through the market, sampling different snacks here and there. I even picked up some yuzu-flavored sweets. If you haven’t tried yuzu, you’re missing out! It’s this delicious citrus fruit that adds a unique twist to everything. In the afternoon, I decided to visit the Sunday Market (Nihonichi no Asaichi), which is held every Sunday, rain or shine. It’s not a Sunday? No problem! The market is vibrant on other days too, with local farmers and artisans showcasing their goods. Talk about a perfect spot to pick up some souvenirs or just chat with the friendly locals. The atmosphere is contagious, and you can feel the pride they have in their products. As the sun set, I made my way to Katsurahama Beach. The view was breathtaking. The waves crashing on the shore, the golden hues of the setting sun—just wow. It was my little slice of paradise after a long day. I ended the evening with some sake at a local izakaya, reminiscing about the day’s adventures and planning for the next.

Day 2: Cape Ashizuri – Nature Awaits

The next morning, I set out for Cape Ashizuri on the 13th. It was a bit of a journey, but trust me, the scenic drive along the coast was absolutely worth it. I stopped at a few lookout points along the way, each one offering a more stunning view than the last. I kept thinking, “Why don’t more people visit this place?” Upon arriving at Cape Ashizuri, I felt an overwhelming sense of peace. The rugged cliffs meeting the deep blue sea were nothing short of magical. I visited the Ashizuri-Uwakai National Park, where I hiked along the well-maintained trails. There’s something about being surrounded by nature that just recharges your batteries, you know? One of my highlights was definitely the view from the Cape Ashizuri lighthouse. I climbed up the winding stairs and, man, when I reached the top, I was hit with a cool breeze and a panoramic view that took my breath away. It felt surreal. I could see the coastline stretching infinitely, and I found myself just standing there, soaking it all in. If only I could bottle that moment up! After my hike, I decided to treat myself to a seafood lunch at a local restaurant. I tried the fresh sashimi and grilled fish, and wow, it was incredible. You can really taste the difference when the seafood is caught right off the coast. In the afternoon, I visited the famous Kongofukuji Temple. It’s one of the 88 temples of the Shikoku Pilgrimage and has a lovely tranquil atmosphere. I spent some time walking around the temple grounds and even chatted with a few other travelers who were also exploring the area. It’s always nice to connect with fellow wanderers. As the day came to a close, I took a leisurely drive back to my accommodation, stopping at various spots to take photos. The sun setting over the water made for some stunning shots. I ended my day with a peaceful dinner of udon noodles—simple, warm, and satisfying.

Day 3: Wrapping Up – The Charm of Kochi

On my last day, August 14th, I had a morning to spare before heading back. I woke up early to explore Kochi City a bit more. I figured I couldn’t leave without visiting the Kochi Prefectural Museum of History. It’s a fantastic place that really dives into the local culture, and I was intrigued by the displays showcasing the history of the region. I even learned about Kochi’s role in the production of Tosa indigo, which was a significant part of its economy in the past. By mid-morning, it was time to grab a final meal. I found a small café that had the best matcha parfait I’d ever tasted. Seriously, it was a work of art! Layers of matcha ice cream, sweet red beans, and mochi—it was a sweet farewell to Kochi. As I packed my bags and prepared to leave, I couldn’t help but feel a little nostalgic. Kochi had a way of sticking to your heart. The people were warm, the scenery was unparalleled, and the food was divine. I made a mental note to come back someday—there’s still so much to explore! So, for anyone planning a trip to Kochi Prefecture, don’t hesitate! It’s perfect for a weekend getaway or even a longer stay if you want to soak in all that this beautiful region has to offer. You won’t regret it. And remember, sometimes it’s not just about the destination, but the journey—and in Kochi, every moment felt like a little adventure. Safe travels!