- 2023.12.19
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Where Japan’s last free-flowing river begins
Indeed, the 196-kilometer Shimanto River is known as Japan’s last free-flowing river because it has no large-scale dams built on it. Instead, you will find these uniquely-structured bridges called chinkabashi that are designed to withstand heavy rain, floods or snow (hence, it has no side rails)! This particular Takahi Chinkabashi is the closest one to the source of the Shimanto River, located only about 18 kilometers away
Speaking of the Shimanto River’s source, it is an almost spiritual experience standing beside the stream that emerges from the slopes of Mt. Irazu (about 1.5 hours from Kochi City by car). Although you feel incredibly far away from civilization, the source can be accessed relatively easily via a short trail (about a 25-minute hike)
After all this exploration, you will no doubt be in the mood for delicious local food, and I know just the spot! Head over to Michi-no-Eki Fusegasaka and order their specialty ramen. Instead of the usual char siu (Cantonese roast meat), you will find a delectable Japanese-style kakuni (braised pork belly) topped on a soy sauce-based broth, cooked-to-perfection noodles and plenty of garlicky goodness that adds extra umami
Pro tip! If you’re looking for good company, you can sign up for the group hike that typically happens in November every year. After meeting in Tsuno Town, you will make your way with locals and fellow visitors along a beautiful 16-kilometer route, featuring a visit to the source of the Shimanto River (the price is 2,000 yen with lunch included). Keep an eye out for information on the Okushimantokochi Tourism Association website (link below) if you’re planning on visiting next year!
Source of the Shimanto River
https://maps.app.goo.gl/CawnuE9g6Q5npvmE7
Michi-no-Eki Fusegasaka
https://maps.app.goo.gl/BYrgTbVXX51YhKPb7
Group hike information from this year (Japanese): https://okushimanto.jp/archives/35269
Okushimantokochi Tourism Association website: https://okushimanto.jp/en
Check out these five day hikes in Kochi suitable for beginners: https://visitkochijapan.com/en/highlights/hiking
Speaking of the Shimanto River’s source, it is an almost spiritual experience standing beside the stream that emerges from the slopes of Mt. Irazu (about 1.5 hours from Kochi City by car). Although you feel incredibly far away from civilization, the source can be accessed relatively easily via a short trail (about a 25-minute hike)
After all this exploration, you will no doubt be in the mood for delicious local food, and I know just the spot! Head over to Michi-no-Eki Fusegasaka and order their specialty ramen. Instead of the usual char siu (Cantonese roast meat), you will find a delectable Japanese-style kakuni (braised pork belly) topped on a soy sauce-based broth, cooked-to-perfection noodles and plenty of garlicky goodness that adds extra umami
Pro tip! If you’re looking for good company, you can sign up for the group hike that typically happens in November every year. After meeting in Tsuno Town, you will make your way with locals and fellow visitors along a beautiful 16-kilometer route, featuring a visit to the source of the Shimanto River (the price is 2,000 yen with lunch included). Keep an eye out for information on the Okushimantokochi Tourism Association website (link below) if you’re planning on visiting next year!
Source of the Shimanto River
https://maps.app.goo.gl/CawnuE9g6Q5npvmE7
Michi-no-Eki Fusegasaka
https://maps.app.goo.gl/BYrgTbVXX51YhKPb7
Group hike information from this year (Japanese): https://okushimanto.jp/archives/35269
Okushimantokochi Tourism Association website: https://okushimanto.jp/en
Check out these five day hikes in Kochi suitable for beginners: https://visitkochijapan.com/en/highlights/hiking
