Family Adventure on Shikoku Island

A Day of Discovery in Kochi

Today was a day of diving deep into the cultural heart of Kochi, filled with art, history, and the soothing sounds of jazz. It’s amazing how much you can pack into a single day when you’re determined to soak up every experience. Hans, Saoirse and I were all very excited about today's itinerary.

Our day began with a hearty Japanese breakfast at Joyfull Kochi Otsu Shop. I remember when I first moved to Berlin, finding a place that felt familiar and comforting was such a relief, and this restaurant had that same effect. We enjoyed a traditional Japanese breakfast set, complete with grilled fish, miso soup, and rice. Saoirse, surprisingly, loved the miso soup, while Hans and I appreciated the perfectly cooked fish. It was a great start to a day of exploration.


Enjoy a diverse menu at Joyfull Kochi Otsu Shop, where family-friendly dining meets affordable prices in the heart of Kochi.

Next on our list was the Ōtsuka Museum of Art. I had read about its unique collection of full-size ceramic reproductions of Western masterpieces, and I was eager to see it for myself. The museum is vast, boasting the largest permanent exhibition space in Japan, and houses over 1,000 works. It felt like stepping into a time machine, journeying through the history of Western art from ancient times to the modern era.


Discover a world of art at the Otsuka Museum of Art, featuring stunning replicas of masterworks from the Western art tradition in scenic Naruto, Tokushima.

Art is not what you see, but what you make others see.

Walking through the museum, I was struck by the sheer scale of the reproductions. The Sistine Chapel ceiling, the *Mona Lisa*, and Van Gogh’s *Sunflowers* were all there, rendered in incredible detail on ceramic boards. It was a unique way to experience these iconic works, and I found myself appreciating the artistry in a new light. Saoirse, who is usually more interested in outdoor activities, was surprisingly engaged, especially with the Renaissance paintings. Hans, ever the engineer, was fascinated by the technology behind the ceramic reproductions.

After immersing ourselves in the world of art, we headed to the Shikoku Automobile Museum. Now, I’m not usually one for cars, but I have to admit, this museum was fascinating. The collection includes a range of domestic and international models, with a focus on race cars and classic cars. The museum was founded in May 1990, with the aim of regional revitalization. I particularly enjoyed seeing the vintage cars and learning about the history of automotive design. Saoirse loved the race cars, imagining herself as a Formula One driver, while Hans, a self-confessed car enthusiast, was in his element, pointing out the unique features of each model.


Explore the Shikoku Automobile Museum in Konan, Kochi - a captivating journey through Japan's rich automotive history and vintage car collection.

“It may be far out of Tokyo (about a 10-hour drive), but it's only three-and-a-half hours from Kobe City. I'd recommend a visit to the Shikoku Automobile Museum if you have a day to spare in this part of Japan; it's so rare to see a museum that has been so clearly curated with a passion for cars, with each car being so carefully (and tastefully) selected. Go for the cars, stay for the views along the way”.

For lunch, we decided to try Cooking Studio Kura. It wasn't just a meal; it was an experience. While it seems that there may be some confusion as to the location of this restaurant, with some sources indicating it is actually located in Itoshima, near Fukuoka, we were still excited to try and experience what it had to offer. We were able to participate in a hands-on cooking class using local ingredients, and Saori Matsuzaki introduces Japanese home cooking to people from abroad. I found myself thinking back to when I lived in Berlin and tried to recreate some of my favorite Irish dishes for my German friends. It’s always a joy to share your culture through food.


Discover authentic Japanese flavors at 料理工房 蔵や in Kami, Kochi – a culinary journey that celebrates local ingredients and traditions.

As evening approached, we made our way to Bar Salvador. I was in the mood for some live music and relaxation. Nestled in the heart of Kochi, Bar Salvador is a delightful spot that exudes charm and vibrancy, making it an ideal retreat after a day filled with adventures. The bar had a cozy, intimate atmosphere, with soft lighting and comfortable seating. The jazz music was the perfect accompaniment to a quiet drink, and I found myself completely relaxed, reflecting on the day’s adventures. Hans enjoyed a glass of local sake, while I opted for a Japanese whisky. Saoirse, of course, stuck to her usual orange juice, but she seemed to enjoy the music as much as we did.


Discover Bar Salvador in Kochi: A charming bar with a vibrant atmosphere and delightful drinks, perfect for unwinding after a day of exploration.

“Number one bar in Japan. Best master in Japan. Best vintage whisky collection in Japan. Can't say enough about this place”.

Bar Salvador is known for its lively jazz sessions, complemented by delicious sake to elevate your experience. It was the perfect way to unwind after a day of cultural immersion. The combination of good music, good drinks, and good company made for a memorable evening. I even struck up a conversation with a local who recommended a few hidden gems to visit in Kochi, which I promptly added to our list.

As we walked back to our accommodation, I couldn’t help but feel grateful for the experiences we had today. From the grand scale of the Ōtsuka Museum of Art to the sleek lines of the vintage cars at the Shikoku Automobile Museum, every moment was filled with discovery and wonder. And the evening at Bar Salvador, with its smooth jazz and relaxed atmosphere, was the perfect way to end the day.

Tomorrow, we’re planning to visit Yokai Village and the Yoshinobu Rice Terraces [Day 10 Itinerary]. I’m particularly excited about the rice terraces, as I’ve always been drawn to the beauty of natural landscapes. It’s going to be another day of exploring the hidden gems of Shikoku Island, and I can’t wait to see what adventures await us.

Reflecting on our travels, I’m reminded of why I love exploring new places. It’s not just about seeing the sights; it’s about immersing yourself in the local culture, meeting new people, and creating lasting memories. And as an ESL teacher, I always find it fascinating to observe how different cultures express themselves through art, music, and food. It’s a reminder that despite our differences, we all share a common humanity.

And now, as I sit here writing this blog post, I can still hear the faint strains of jazz music in my ears, a soothing reminder of a day well spent. I’m looking forward to sharing more of our adventures with you, so stay tuned for the next installment of our Shikoku Island journey.

Tomorrow we are off to Yokai Village - East End and Yoshinobu Rice Terraces [Day 10 Itinerary]. I've heard Yokai Village is quite quirky, so I'm looking forward to seeing that, and the Rice Terraces should be stunning!