Family Adventure on Shikoku Island

Chasing Views and History in Kochi

Today was a whirlwind of breathtaking views, historical explorations, and delicious food, all wrapped up in the vibrant atmosphere of Kochi. From the serene Kurushima Strait Observatory, every moment was a feast for the senses. I'm so excited to share the details of our day with you!

Our day began early as we set off to explore the Kurushima Strait Observatory. The journey itself was scenic, winding through lush landscapes dotted with quaint villages. As we approached the observatory, the air grew crisper, carrying the scent of the sea. The view from the top was simply stunning. The Kurushima Kaikyo Bridge stretched out before us, a marvel of engineering against the backdrop of the Seto Inland Sea. Thandiwe was fascinated by the ships passing beneath the bridge, each one leaving a trail of white foam in its wake. I could have stayed there for hours, just soaking in the panoramic vista.


Experience the stunning views at Kurushima Strait Observatory, an essential stop for nature lovers and photography enthusiasts in Imabari, Japan.

The best view comes after the hardest climb.

After taking in the breathtaking scenery at the Kurushima Strait Observatory, we headed to Kochi, eager to explore its famed castle. Before heading to Kochi Castle, we stopped for breakfast at 十万十 (Jumanji). This charming spot was recommended by a local, and it did not disappoint. The breakfast set was a delightful mix of traditional Japanese fare, including grilled fish, miso soup, and perfectly cooked rice. It was the perfect way to fuel up for a day of sightseeing. David particularly enjoyed the tamagoyaki, a sweet and savory rolled omelet, while Thandiwe devoured her rice with gusto. It's moments like these, sharing a meal and experiencing new flavors together, that make our family trips so special.


Immerse yourself in authentic Japanese culture at 十万十, where traditional izakaya meets modern culinary excellence.

Kochi Castle was truly a sight to behold. Perched atop a hill, it offered commanding views of the city. As we walked through the castle grounds, I couldn't help but feel transported back in time. The castle has a rich history, surviving fires and wars to stand as a symbol of resilience. Thandiwe was particularly intrigued by the *shinobigaeshi*, the iron spikes designed to deter enemies from climbing the walls. We explored the castle tower, marveling at the intricate architecture and the panoramic views from the top. It's amazing to think that feudal lords once resided here, overseeing their domain. The castle is also known as a popular photo spot, and I can attest to that. It is the only castle in Japan where you can capture both its Otemon and its tower in a single shot.


Explore the stunning Kochi Castle, a historical gem in Japan, showcasing beautiful architecture and rich samurai heritage amidst picturesque gardens.

Lunch at 野村食堂 (Nomura Shokudo) was another culinary adventure. This local eatery is known for its authentic Kochi cuisine. We tried the katsuo tataki, seared skipjack tuna, a regional specialty. The smoky flavor and tender texture were simply divine. Thandiwe, surprisingly, loved it too! David opted for a hearty bowl of ramen, declaring it the best he'd had on this trip so far. It's these simple, unassuming restaurants that often offer the most memorable dining experiences.


Experience authentic Japanese cuisine at 野村食堂 in Kochi - where tradition meets flavor in every dish.

After lunch, we decided to explore the Suehiro Shopping Center. It was a great place to soak in the local atmosphere and pick up a few souvenirs. We found a variety of shops selling everything from local crafts to regional delicacies. I was particularly drawn to a small shop selling handmade paper products, each one a unique work of art. Thandiwe, of course, was more interested in the candy store, where she carefully selected a colorful assortment of Japanese sweets. We also found a shop selling Tosa Akaushi beef, a rare and prized type of Wagyu beef.


Discover the vibrant shopping scene at Suehiro Shopping Center, where local charm meets a diverse range of shops and amenities in Tosa.

As the day drew to a close, we treated ourselves to dinner at Osusowake Shokudo Mado. This restaurant had a cozy, welcoming atmosphere, and the menu featured a range of creative dishes using local ingredients. I opted for a seafood stew, packed with fresh fish and vegetables, while David chose a grilled chicken dish with a tangy yuzu sauce. Thandiwe, ever the adventurous eater, surprised us by ordering a plate of gyoza, which she devoured with gusto. It was the perfect way to end a perfect day.


Discover authentic Japanese cuisine at Osusowake Shokudo Mado in Kami, Kochi - where tradition meets flavor in every dish.

Tomorrow, we plan to delve deeper into the local folklore with visits to the Yokai House and the Heike Yashiki Museum of Folklore. I'm particularly excited about the Yokai House – Thandiwe loves spooky stories, and I'm sure she'll be thrilled to learn about the *yokai* (Japanese spirits and demons) that inhabit this region. We're also planning to grab breakfast at マムズキッチン mom's kitchen, a local spot known for its hearty breakfasts, and dinner at 十万十 again, since it was so good. Before that, we will have lunch at ビスタリ食堂. And if we have time, we might even sneak in a visit to Bar Salvador for a nightcap. I can't wait to see what adventures tomorrow brings!

This trip has been more than just sightseeing; it's been about connecting with each other and experiencing a new culture together. Every day brings new discoveries and unforgettable memories. I feel so grateful for these moments with my family, exploring the beauty and wonder of Shikoku Island.

I am looking forward to sharing more of our adventures with you soon! Until then, *chisarai*! (goodbye in Shona)