Only have a few hours in Kochi City? No problem!

Especially for those arriving in Kochi on a cruise, you may only have several hours to explore the area, and that’s definitely doable! You may not be able to see as much as you would ideally like to, but you’ll certainly gain a good glimpse of what this magical place has to offer. Check out these must-visit spots


Kochi Castle

This over 400-year-old castle located at the heart of Kochi City (approximately 30 minutes by car from Kochi Port) is one of the last twelve remaining original castles in Japan.

Hirome Market

Just a short walk away from Kochi Castle is Hirome Market, where you can try a range of Kochi’s local cuisine. Whatever you do, don’t miss the katsuo no tataki (seared bonito) that is prepared in a blazing rice straw fire!

Kuroshio Kobo

Speaking of blazing rice straw fires…if you have a couple more hours to spare, I recommend heading over to Kuroshio Kobo (about 1.5 hours from Kochi Station by train) where you can experience this traditional technique of searing bonito for yourself! The retro fishing town of Kure is also a great place to take a stroll and immerse yourself in the beauty of the Japanese countryside and local life.

Niyodo River

Another spot worth visiting if you have the time is the crystal-clear Niyodo River, which is often ranked as one of Japan’s most beautiful rivers. Hidaka Village and Ino Town are one of the closest spots to Kochi City with easy access to the Niyodo River.

Kochi Castle
https://maps.app.goo.gl/8TNE4wYpUYu4mw7LA
https://visitkochijapan.com/en/see-and-do/10009

Hirome Market
https://maps.app.goo.gl/sdFKn3wiFo1k8RL6A
https://visitkochijapan.com/en/see-and-do/10024

Kuroshio Kobo
https://maps.app.goo.gl/8XrTj7tHc9f7CKAC8
https://visitkochijapan.com/en/activities/10434

Niyodo River
https://maps.app.goo.gl/7R9tW4BB6sdvFmFg7
https://visitkochijapan.com/en/highlights/niyodoriver
https://visitkochijapan.com/en/see-and-do/10508