About Kochi
Kochi prefecture is on the southern side of Shikoku, spreading east and west to embrace the Pacific Ocean.
It boasts a lush natural landscape with the clean waters of the Shimanto River and mountains covered roughly 84% by forest.
It has a warm and humid climate. The average temperature in the central area of the prefecture surrounding Kochi City is 17.8℃, with highs in summer reaching around 37℃. Winters are relatively warm on the plains, but in the mountains the cold can be severe and there is plenty of snow. Travel by plane can be made from Tokyo or Osaka in 1~2 hours.
Kochi's people are cheerful and energetic, with a laid-back and friendly attitude that welcomes both newcomers and neighbors as cherished friends. They love to drink, and the " Okyaku"culture tradition of finding any excuse to celebrate with those around you is an important part of the local culture. Additionally, as Kochi is a prefecture that was blessed with access to mountains, rivers, and the ocean, it is a veritable treasure trove of delicious food. It's most famous for bonito, called "katsuo" in Japanese, both for how good the fish tastes and as the top consumer of the fish in all of Japan. We wholeheartedly recommend trying the local "katsuo no tataki" delicacy during your travels in Kochi prefecture.
For a more detailed introduction to all Kochi has to offer, please read these articles.
Shimanto River Valley: Japan's Best Kept Secret
Crossing over mountains and seas, deep into the heart of Shikoku.
Shimanto River: A secret place where Japan's unspoilt natural beauty has been preserved. Here are some of the best ways to enjoy this region!
Kochi's "Okyaku" Culture - Everyone is a friend in Kochi!
In Kochi, the parties thrown to celebrate things like seasonal events and celebrations of “life goals” like getting married, etc. are called okyaku. Here, it’s easy to break the ice and get acquainted, or be invited for drinks!
Learn More
Soul Food of Kochi: Katsuo no Tataki (Seared Bonito)
If you come to Kochi, the food you have to eat is seared bonito,or "katsuo no tataki". This is sashimi of bonito with its surface seared. Its tastiness is exceptional. We introduce here ways to enjoy this dish that you can only experience in its home.
Learn More
Kochi prefecture is on the southern side of Shikoku, spreading east and west to embrace the Pacific Ocean.
It boasts a lush natural landscape with the clean waters of the Shimanto River and mountains covered roughly 84% by forest.
It has a warm and humid climate. The average temperature in the central area of the prefecture surrounding Kochi City is 17.8℃, with highs in summer reaching around 37℃. Winters are relatively warm on the plains, but in the mountains the cold can be severe and there is plenty of snow. Travel by plane can be made from Tokyo or Osaka in 1~2 hours.
Kochi's people are cheerful and energetic, with a laid-back and friendly attitude that welcomes both newcomers and neighbors as cherished friends. They love to drink, and the " Okyaku"culture tradition of finding any excuse to celebrate with those around you is an important part of the local culture. Additionally, as Kochi is a prefecture that was blessed with access to mountains, rivers, and the ocean, it is a veritable treasure trove of delicious food. It's most famous for bonito, called "katsuo" in Japanese, both for how good the fish tastes and as the top consumer of the fish in all of Japan. We wholeheartedly recommend trying the local "katsuo no tataki" delicacy during your travels in Kochi prefecture.
For a more detailed introduction to all Kochi has to offer, please read these articles.
Shimanto River Valley: Japan's Best Kept Secret
Crossing over mountains and seas, deep into the heart of Shikoku.
Shimanto River: A secret place where Japan's unspoilt natural beauty has been preserved. Here are some of the best ways to enjoy this region!
Kochi's "Okyaku" Culture - Everyone is a friend in Kochi!
In Kochi, the parties thrown to celebrate things like seasonal events and celebrations of “life goals” like getting married, etc. are called okyaku. Here, it’s easy to break the ice and get acquainted, or be invited for drinks!
Learn More
Soul Food of Kochi: Katsuo no Tataki (Seared Bonito)
If you come to Kochi, the food you have to eat is seared bonito,or "katsuo no tataki". This is sashimi of bonito with its surface seared. Its tastiness is exceptional. We introduce here ways to enjoy this dish that you can only experience in its home.
Learn More