Kochi Prefecture

A prefecture in southern Shikoku facing the Pacific, with the clear Shimanto River, Cape Ashizuri, and a hearty bonito cuisine culture.

Kochi Prefecture is in southern Shikoku, backed by the Shikoku Mountains to the north and facing the Pacific Ocean to the south, with a long coastline. The capital Kochi has Kochi Castle with its original keep and the lively Hirome Market; charcoal-seared bonito tataki is the signature dish, and sites related to Sakamoto Ryoma and Katsurahama Beach are also popular. In the west, the Shimanto River is hailed as Japan's last clear stream, Cape Ashizuri has magnificent sea cliffs, and the Yosakoi Festival in August is full of energy. Spring and autumn are mild, and summer is good for river activities. You can arrive via Kochi Ryoma Airport or take a JR limited express from Okayama.

Destinations

• Kochi
• Shimanto River & Cape Ashizuri
• Muroto

Itineraries

• Shikoku Grand Loop Self-Drive – Embark on a grand loop from Naruto through Iya, Kochi, Shimanto, Ashizuri, Uwajima, and Dogo, ending in Kotohira and Ta…
• Kochi: Niyodo Blue, Shimanto & Ashizuri – Drive west from Kochi to see the Niyodo River, Shimanto Chinka bridges, Cape Ashizuri, and the waters of Kashiwajima.
• Shikoku Henro Highlights & Mount Koya – Follow the traditional pilgrimage route to representative temples from Tokushima to Kagawa, complete the journey at Oku…
• Classic Shikoku Rail Loop – Enter via Okayama to Takamatsu, connecting Naoshima, Kotohira, Oboke, Kochi, Matsuyama, and Uchiko by rail, with no dri…