Kochi Shore Excursion: Custom Car Tour, Licensed Guide

見どころ

含まれるもの

行程

1. Kochi Castle is one of the few remaining original castles in Japan, meaning that it survived both the Edo and Meiji eras when many castles were destroyed. Even amongst the original castles, Kochi is notable for being one of only three where the original main gate survives. Kochi Castle is unique in one other way: it is the only castle where the lord's reception suite remains. The castle has a long history, with construction starting in 1600 though most of the keep was rebuilt in 1748. While it is on the smaller side when compared to Himeji or Matsuyama, it is well preserved with nice displays inside and beautiful views. The castle itself is set in a pleasant park that is a popular picnic and hanami (cherry-blossom viewing) spot. Kochi Castle is a short walk from Kochijomae tram stop or you can walk in about twenty minutes from the Harimayabashi area.

   25分

2. While most castles in Japan double as a museum, Kochi actually has a separate museum dedicated to the history of the castle. The museum chronicles the history of the Tosa kingdom from the Warring States period through the Meiji Reformation. It includes the typical artwork, historical documents, and national treasures, and kids can also get the chance to dress up in samurai armour. The third floor also houses an observatory with a beautiful view of the castle. History buffs will no doubt enjoy learning more about the castle and its town as well as 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 located right across the street from the castle, making it easy to combine the two.

   30分

3. The Makino Botanical Garden was created to honor Makino Tomitaro, who is considered the father of Japanese botany. This spacious and beautiful park is a perfect place to escape the hustle and bustle of the city; one can easily spend a few hours exploring the grounds. It includes all kinds of 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 the size, you can always find something blooming. Even when it isn’t bursting with flowers though, it’s a pleasant and relaxing walk. It's located on the top of Godaisan, so the stunning view alone is worth the trip. Entrance is 720 yen (discount with bus pass), and it is best accessed via the My Yu bus, where it is twenty minutes or so outside of the city.

   30分

4. Chikurinji, built in 724, is one of the stops of the Shikoku pilgrimage, and as the bodhisattva enshrined there is associated with wisdom, many students come here as well to pray for academic success. While the temple building itself may pale in comparison to the more famous temples in Kyoto, the five story pagoda is gorgeous and well 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 a wander 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 that includes many Buddhist statues, and a gorgeous Japanese style garden. The temple is on the My Yu bus route, and if you are visiting the botanical garden, simply exit from the south exit (re-entry possible), where the temple is steps away.

   30分

5. The Yokoyama Memorial Manga Museum honors the legacy of Yokoyama Ryuichi, the first cartoonist to be deemed a person of cultural merit. The museum has many fun comic strips you can read as well as fun, interactive exhibits on his popular character, Fuku-chan. Additionally, Yokoyama's studio and quirky home bar and toy collection are also presented. For an extra fee, you can visit the fifth floor that contains an eclectic assortment of objects that meant something to Yokoyama. Even the museum information admits that some of these things may seem like junk to us, and, indeed, many of the things included (like a rather terrifying cat onesie or a strand of leg hair) would be very out of place in most museums. That said, it is sure to bring a smile to your face. Even with no knowledge of the character or the author, the museum is delightful and will bring out your inner child.

   30分

6. Kochi's shopping arcades are extensive, and make walking to various tourist sites more exciting. You can find everything you could want, and it's a great place to get a bite to eat or shop for souvenirs. One popular souvenir is the naruko noisemaker. These were traditionally used to scare off birds in rice fields, but now they are an essential part of the Yosakoi dance, and all teams are required to use them. Additionally, some days you can find 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 take you through the Harimayabashi area all the way to the castle.

   30分

7. Harimayabashi may seem rather unimpressive at first. After all, the bridge is small at only 20 meters long. However, the bridge is famed not because of its look but due to 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, though, 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 a part of the Yosakoi festival song, cementing itself into Kochi local culture. In the 60s, a song by Peggy Hayama was based off it, which even inspired a film adaptation, jolting 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.

   30分

8. 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 done 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 things and to socialize. It's not just food and drink though. You can also buy 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.

   30分

9. 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 things to do in the area. One of the main sites 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 helped with the negotiations of the shogun's resignation. If that's not enough, 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.

   30分

10. If you are in Kochi on a weekend, the Sunday market is not to be missed. The market opened in 1690, making it the oldest outdoor market in Japan. The market spans 1 kilometer from Otesuji avenue to Kochi Castle and includes over 500 stalls. Vegetables, fruit, and other local produce is the most popular thing sold, but you can also buy fish, handicrafts, and knives. It’s a great place to sample local dishes and get a taste of local life.

    30分

11. 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 sight seeing course is available with this tour; the adventure course is not included.**

    1時間

12. KAIYODO Space Factory Nankoku is a hands-on museum and factory operated by KAIYODO in Nankoku City, Kochi Prefecture. Visitors can observe the production process of soft vinyl figures and explore exhibits showcasing KAIYODO’s renowned craftsmanship and collectibles. The facility also features interactive displays and workshops, offering a unique behind-the-scenes look at Japanese figure-making culture.

    5分

キャンセル

開始24時間前まで無料でキャンセルでき、全額返金されます。

口コミ

評価は予約パートナーが集めた77件の口コミによるものです。旅行者自身の言葉を書かれた順に掲載しており、体験をよく見せるために並べ替えることはありません。

英語で書かれた口コミを表示しています。

• 5Kochi at its best

  I only hope you get a guide as good as Peach. She is local to Kochi and knows a tremendous amount about the area. Don't miss the botanical center. Truly a highlight. Also, let her choose the lunch place, wow. One of the nicest things is that she takes lots of pictures of the people on the tour and sends them to you. She was waiting for us right on time and got us back to the boat well before it sailed. The day was very relaxed and we got to see a lot. She was wonderful.

  Lyle_L2026年10月Viatorより

• 5Best tour ever! even in the rain

  Miyo was our guide and she was fantastic! so sweet and enduring. We started off with the Sunday Market which was nice, even in the rain. And actually allowed the crowds to die down at Kochi Castle. The street food was delicious Because of the rain we had to pivot and she suggested a paper making class which we loved doing. And the udon we had with the handmade noodles while we waited for our papers to dry was unbelievably good.. The view of the Niyodo river was a nice change from the hustle and bustle of the city. It was calming and beautiful. We had such a great time. Thank you Miyo for making our Kochi tour so exceptional . You are the best!

  Tina_P2026年10月Viatorより

• 5Kochi Shore Excursion

  After booking the tour of Kochi, I received several emails from our guide (Peach) to go over the itinerary. Since it was a private tour, it was completely flexible. She met us promptly as we left the cruise ship as it was a shore excursion. Has a nice day in Kochi.

  PravinP6382026年10月Tripadvisorより

• 5Wonderful day in Kochi from cruise ship

  10/10 tour with Atsuko. She was very nice and knowledgeable. She knew about some anime from Canada and bonded with my mom over it. She also brought us to a very good and affordable restaurant for lunch in the market. She gave us a lot of informations about the castle and the caves. Lastly we went to the Sunday market and she was able to recommend us some good food to try. Would recommend to everyone!

  Patricia_C2026年10月Viatorより

• 5Kochi with Miyo

  Miyo was wonderful. Very caring and considerate of our mobility issues. She was knowledgeable of culture. History and religion. She’s very proud of Hochi and wants to make sure her guests are taken great care of

  Hdwhitejr2026年9月Tripadvisorより

• 5Great day in Kochi

  Very adaptable tour guide who made great suggestions to do things considering the weather conditions which constrained the possibilities for the day

  Adrian_H2026年9月Viatorより

参加前に知っておくこと

How it compares in Kochi

• Its from-price is 89% above the median of the 34 experiences we list in Kochi.
• Its length is typical for the group.
• By number of reviews it ranks 2 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