The Yuzu-Filled Village of Umaji

Umaji is a little mountain village of 800 people, but is a powerhouse when it comes to growing yuzu, Kochi’s iconic citrus fruit. Farmers here grow 800 tons of yuzu every year, and the local agriculture co-op makes one of the prefecture’s most famous and beloved drinks, Gokkun Umajimura, a refreshing beverage made with yuzu juice, honey and water.

Umaji and neighbouring Kitagawa are two essential stops on the Yuzu Road, where the remains of a former railway, pretty traditional houses and fragrant citrus groves (all designated a Japan Heritage site) give the forested area a timeless, enchanted atmosphere.

Be sure to ride the Umaji Forest Railway Incline, which will take you up the mountain in an old-school cable car, from where you can take in the view of the village below, which looks like it hasn’t changed in centuries. At the Yuzu no Mori Factory you can see yuzu being processed into tasty drinks, or try some of the bread, ramen or homey dishes featuring river fish or mountain vegetables at local eateries.

Accommodation-wise, you can either enjoy the hospitality and hot springs at Umaji Onsen, or camp out at the riverside Yanase Forest Park Auto Camping Ground.