Family Adventure on Shikoku Island

Emerald Caves and Coastal Dragons

Today was a day of exploring the natural wonders of Kochi, a prefecture that continues to surprise and delight us at every turn. From mystical caves draped in ferns to dramatic coastal rock formations, and of course, the delicious food that fuels our adventures, Kochi has truly captured our hearts.

We started our day with a hearty breakfast at Hattorikun. While technically an Italian restaurant, the Japanese twist on the menu items was intriguing. I opted for a Naporitan pasta, while Hans went for a pizza. Saoirse, predictably, chose a simple margherita. It was a satisfying start to a day filled with exploration. Funny enough, I remember back in Berlin, Hans and I tried making pizza from scratch, and it was an absolute disaster. The dough was too sticky, the sauce too watery – we ended up ordering takeout that night! It's moments like these that make traveling as a family so special, filled with laughter and shared memories.

Our first stop was Ioki Cave. Getting there was an adventure in itself, a scenic drive along Route 55, with glimpses of the ocean and lush countryside. The entrance to the cave was unassuming, almost hidden, but as soon as we stepped inside, we were transported to another world.


Explore the enchanting Ioki Cave in Kochi, Japan, where nature's beauty and geological wonders come together to create an unforgettable experience.

The cave itself is a 40-meter-long tunnel, carved out by ocean waves millions of years ago. The walls were embedded with fossilized shells, a testament to its underwater origins. A small river ran through the cave, leading us deeper into a canyon. And then, the ferns.

Everywhere we looked, there were ferns – over 40 different species, blanketing the canyon walls in a vibrant tapestry of green. The air was cool and misty, and the only sound was the gentle trickling of water. It felt like stepping into a scene from a Ghibli film. Saoirse was absolutely captivated, running ahead to explore every nook and cranny. Hans, ever the photographer, was in his element, snapping photos of the lush greenery and the play of light and shadow. Ioki Cave has been recognized as a National Natural Monument since 1915 because of its diverse plant life. The temperature inside the cave remains around 20 degrees Celsius throughout the year.

Nature always wears the colors of the spirit.

At the end of the canyon, we discovered three small waterfalls, the largest cascading into an emerald-hued pool. It was a truly magical sight, a hidden oasis of tranquility. The entire walk through the cave and canyon took us about an hour, and we were grateful for the comfortable shoes we had packed. Ioki Cave is located near the coast and Higashiyama Forest Park.

Leaving Ioki Cave, we drove towards Dragon Rock, another of Kochi's natural wonders. Located along the Tatsukushi coast, Dragon Rock is a series of unique stone formations created by wind and wave erosion over thousands of years. The name Tatsukushi means dragon skewers, as the rocks resemble bamboo skewers extending from the dragon-shaped hills along the coast.


Explore Dragon Rock in Tokushima, a breathtaking tourist attraction steeped in folklore and natural beauty, perfect for adventure and relaxation.

We parked near the Tatsukushi Visitor Center and started along the walking trail. The views were simply breathtaking – the vivid blue waters of the Pacific Ocean crashing against the rugged coastline. The rock formations were incredible, sculpted into bizarre and fascinating shapes. We saw formations that resembled helmets, a thousand tatami mats, and even mermaid caves.

Saoirse had fun spotting different shapes in the rocks, while Hans and I marveled at the power of nature to create such art. We learned that the area was designated Japan's first National Marine Park in 1970 and is popular for snorkeling and scuba diving due to its impressive coral reef. A glass-bottom boat tour offers views of the coral reefs and Minokoshi Coast. The Tatsukushi Sightseeing Volunteer Association provides tours with knowledgeable guides.

After our coastal exploration, we were ready for lunch. We drove to Ombelico, an Italian restaurant in Tosa. This wasn't just any Italian restaurant; it was run by a chef who had trained in Italy, and his wife, a pastry chef. The restaurant prides itself on using local ingredients to create authentic Italian dishes.


Discover Ombelico in Tosa: where authentic Italian cuisine meets Japanese hospitality for an unforgettable dining experience.

We started with a selection of homemade breads and cakes, followed by pasta lunches and Tosa Akaushi steaks. Hans opted for a creamy risotto, Saoirse chose a wood-fired pizza, and I decided to try the local specialty, Tosa Akaushi beef. Every dish was a delight, bursting with flavor and made with love. The restaurant had a warm and inviting atmosphere, perfect for families. Ombelico is known for its blend of Italian cuisine and Japanese hospitality.

In the late afternoon, we decided to explore Kochi's culinary scene further with a visit to Beer Wine and Ate Mangetsu. This cozy bar had a chic atmosphere and a wide selection of craft beers from Kochi and Shizuoka breweries. The owner was friendly and knowledgeable, recommending several local brews for us to try.


Experience the vibrant nightlife at Beer Wine and Ate Mangetsu, a cozy bar in Kochi offering a diverse selection of drinks and local flavors.

Hans enjoyed a Kochi craft beer, while I savored a glass of Japanese wine. Saoirse, of course, stuck with her usual orange juice. We relaxed and chatted, reflecting on the day's adventures. The bar also offered a variety of small dishes that paired perfectly with the drinks. It was a delightful way to unwind after a day of exploring Kochi's natural beauty.

For dinner, we decided to indulge in a traditional Japanese meal at Japanese Cuisine Shiba. This restaurant is known for its Kaiseki (multi-course) meals, showcasing the best of Kochi's seasonal ingredients. We opted for the Omakase Course, allowing Chef Seiji Shiba to create a culinary experience based on his expertise.


Experience authentic Japanese flavors at 日本料理 しば, where traditional cuisine meets modern hospitality in Nankoku.

Each dish was a work of art, beautifully arranged and bursting with flavor. We savored the exquisite tastes of fresh seafood, locally grown vegetables, and perfectly cooked meats. The service was impeccable, and the calm, semi-private setting allowed us to fully appreciate the culinary artistry. It was a truly memorable dining experience, a perfect end to a day of exploration. Japanese Cuisine Shiba is a new-style Japanese restaurant that opened in April 2023.

As we head back to our Ryokan, I can't help but feel grateful for the experiences we've had today. Kochi is a prefecture that seamlessly blends natural beauty with culinary excellence, offering something for everyone. Tomorrow, we are planning to explore Ōboke Gorge and Ōkubo Gorge. I've heard that Oboke Gorge offers river rafting. I'm particularly excited about the prospect of seeing the Iya Valley.

I'm also hoping to pick up a raincoat, maybe at Plugs Market Kochi Store, as the weather forecast predicts a chance of rain. We seem to have forgotten to pack them, a small oversight that could prove inconvenient. Also, I'm feeling like my phone is constantly running out of battery, so a portable phone charger might be a good investment too! It's these little things that you only realize you need when you're on the road.

The Yosakoi Festival is held annually in August in Kochi City. The Ashizuri Festival is scheduled for August 2nd. The dragon statue in Kochi was created by Kaiyodo Co. The Hirome Market is a popular spot in Kochi.