Explore Kochi: private tour by Car with licensed guide

Highlights

Inclusions

Itinerary

1. Chikurin-ji Temple, located on Mount Godai in Kochi, is one of the 88 temples on the famous Shikoku Pilgrimage. Founded in the 8th century by the Buddhist monk Gyoki, it is known for its beautiful five-story pagoda, tranquil garden, and impressive collection of Buddhist statues. The temple grounds offer scenic views of Kochi City and a peaceful atmosphere surrounded by nature. Visitors can stroll through its moss-covered paths, admire seasonal flowers, and experience the deep spirituality that has attracted pilgrims for over a thousand years, making it a cultural and historical gem of Kochi.

   1 h

2. Hirome Market offers a lively and unforgettable glimpse into Kochi’s vibrant local culture, setting it apart from more traditional or tourist-oriented markets in Japan. Unlike orderly food courts or department store basements, this bustling hall brings together over 60 stalls where locals and travelers share communal tables, creating a relaxed, festive atmosphere. Visitors can sample Kochi’s famous dishes like seared bonito (katsuo no tataki) prepared on the spot, accompanied by local sake. The open, unpretentious setting encourages conversation and spontaneous encounters, making the experience as much about people as it is about food—a warm memory that lingers well beyond the meal.

   1.5 h

3. Kochi Castle stands out among Japan’s castles as one of the few original structures to have survived since the Edo period, with its main keep, watchtowers, and connecting corridors all intact. Unlike many reconstructed castles, visitors here can walk through authentic wooden interiors and climb steep stairs once used by feudal lords. The castle's hilltop location offers sweeping views of the city, making the journey to the top both historically immersive and visually rewarding. Its compact yet complete layout makes it easy to grasp the daily life and defense strategy of a real samurai domain, leaving a vivid impression that lingers long after your visit.

   1.5 hAdmission included

4. Katsurahama is one of Kochi’s most iconic scenic destinations, offering a striking contrast between the crashing waves of the Pacific Ocean and the calm beauty of pine-lined walking paths. What sets it apart from other coastal spots in Japan is its deep connection to history—most notably the towering statue of Sakamoto Ryoma, a local hero who helped shape modern Japan. Visitors can enjoy panoramic ocean views, explore the Sakamoto Ryoma Memorial Museum, and take in the unique atmosphere that blends natural grandeur with a strong sense of place and identity, leaving a lasting impression long after the visit ends.

   1 h

5. Nestled deep in the mountains, Niko-buchi is a hidden waterfall pool renowned for its dazzling turquoise color, famously known as the “Niyodo Blue.” The water is so clear that you can see every stone beneath the surface, creating a magical and almost otherworldly atmosphere. The contrast of the lush green forest with the vivid blue pool makes it a favorite spot for photographers and nature lovers alike. Visiting this secluded gem offers a chance to feel the quiet power and purity of untouched nature. Please note: This stop is included only when selecting the Niyodo Blue Plan.

   Passes by

6. Yasui Valley is one of the most scenic parts of the Niyodo River, where crystal-clear streams flow through dense forests and over mossy rocks. Visitors can enjoy walking trails that reveal small waterfalls, tranquil pools, and untouched greenery, offering a refreshing escape into the heart of Shikoku’s natural beauty. The changing seasons add unique charm, from vibrant green in summer to fiery foliage in autumn. It is a place where time slows down, inviting you to immerse yourself in the healing presence of nature. Please note: This stop is included only when selecting the Niyodo Blue Plan.

   Passes by

Cancellation

Free cancellation up to 24 hours before the experience starts, for a full refund.

Reviews

Ratings come from 5 reviews collected by our booking partner. They are travellers' own words, in the order they were written — never reordered to flatter the experience.

Know before you go

How it compares in Kochi

• Its from-price is 268% above the median of the 34 experiences we list in Kochi.
• It is longer than most of them.
• By number of reviews it ranks 8 of 34.
• The operator lists free cancellation on it.

About Kochi

Kochi, on the Pacific coast of Shikoku, is a castle town known for seared bonito, a long Sunday market and its ties to the hero Sakamoto Ryoma.

Kochi stands on the southern coast of Shikoku, facing the Pacific, with mountains rising immediately behind. Kochi Castle, in the middle of the city, keeps its original wooden keep from the 18th century, one of the few left in Japan, and from the top there are views over the rooftops. Sakamoto Ryoma, a samurai who helped bring down the shogunate in the 1860s, was born here, and his statue looks out over the ocean at Katsurahama beach.

See all 34 experiences in Kochi