Family Adventure on Shikoku Island: Exploring Japan's Hidden Gem

A Cultural Sunday in Kochi

Today was a delightful blend of art, history, and a touch of Irish fun here in Kochi. It’s amazing how much you can pack into a single day when you’re determined to soak up every bit of a new place. I always find these kinds of days especially rewarding, as they provide a richer understanding of the local culture and its influences.

Our day began with a hearty breakfast at たつ味. It was a great start, fueling us up for a day of exploration. Hans was particularly excited about the traditional Japanese options, while Sofia, ever the adventurous one, tried some local delicacies. I enjoyed a bit of both, savoring the unique flavors and textures that Japanese cuisine offers.

After breakfast, we set off to the Otsuka Museum of Art in Naruto. I had heard so much about this place, and it truly lived up to the hype. The museum boasts over 1,000 life-size ceramic reproductions of Western masterpieces. From the Sistine Chapel to Monet's Water Lilies, it was an overwhelming yet incredible experience to see so many iconic works in one place. Sofia was particularly fascinated by the Mona Lisa, and we spent a good amount of time discussing the painting's enigmatic smile. Hans, with his engineering mind, was impressed by the technology used to create the ceramic reproductions, ensuring their preservation for thousands of years. The museum is vast, and we walked about four kilometers to see everything.


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.

After immersing ourselves in the world of art, we drove to Kochi Castle. This castle is one of the few original castles remaining in Japan, having survived fires and wars. The history of the castle dates back to the early 1600s, and it served as both a residence and a fortress for the Yamauchi lords of Tosa Province. As we walked through the castle grounds, I couldn’t help but marvel at the architecture and the rich history that permeated every corner. The main keep, which was reconstructed in 1749 after a fire, offered stunning panoramic views of Kochi City. Sofia enjoyed exploring the castle grounds and running around the open spaces, while Hans and I appreciated the historical significance of the site.


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

Inside the castle, we visited the Kochi Castle Museum of History. The museum displayed a variety of historical objects related to the Tokugawa shogunate and the Yamauchi lords, including armor, swords, and everyday items used by the castle's residents. It was fascinating to learn about the lives of the people who once lived and ruled from this castle. The museum also provided insights into the castle's wooden interior and how it was constructed without modern technology.

For lunch, we stopped at Munagin, a local restaurant known for its authentic Kochi cuisine. We tried some of the regional specialties, including katsuo tataki (seared skipjack tuna) and local seafood dishes. The flavors were unique and delicious, giving us a true taste of Kochi. Sofia, surprisingly, enjoyed the katsuo tataki, declaring it her new favorite dish. Hans appreciated the freshness of the seafood, commenting on the quality of the ingredients.


Experience the authentic taste of Japan at Munagin - a premier destination for unagi lovers in Nankoku.

In the evening, after a day filled with art and history, we decided to unwind at the Irish Pub Amontillado. It might seem odd to visit an Irish pub in Japan, but it was a fun and relaxing way to end the day. The pub had a great selection of drinks, including several international beers on tap. I enjoyed a glass of Guinness, while Hans tried a local craft beer. Sofia, of course, stuck to juice. The atmosphere was lively and welcoming, and we even struck up a conversation with some locals who shared their recommendations for other places to visit in Shikoku.


Discover the charm of Irish Pub Amontillado in Kochi, where traditional izakaya meets the warmth of Irish hospitality, offering a unique dining experience.

The juxtaposition of experiencing traditional Japanese culture and then stepping into an Irish pub was quite amusing and highlighted the diverse influences that can be found even in smaller cities like Kochi. It reminded me of how interconnected the world is, and how different cultures can coexist and enrich one another.

Before heading back to our ryokan, we had dinner at Hakkenden Nankoku Osone, a yakitori restaurant known for its charcoal-grilled skewers. The atmosphere was cozy and inviting, with a retro Showa-era vibe that added to the charm. We ordered a variety of skewers, including chicken, pork, and vegetables, all cooked to perfection over the charcoal grill. It was a delicious and satisfying end to a long day.


Discover authentic yakitori and traditional izakaya dining at Hakkenden Nankoku Osone – a must-visit culinary gem in Kochi.

As we drove back, I reflected on the day’s adventures. From the artistic wonders of the Otsuka Museum to the historical depths of Kochi Castle and the unexpected Irish cheer at Amontillado, it was a day that truly captured the essence of Kochi. I am so glad we decided to include this city in our Shikoku itinerary.

Tomorrow, we’re planning to visit the Heike Yashiki Museum of Folklore and the Kurushima Strait Observatory. I’m particularly excited about the observatory, as I’ve heard the views of the Kurushima Strait are breathtaking. We’ll also be trying out some new restaurants, including Korean Restaurant and Kimchi Shop Kyongbok Palace for breakfast and Yoronotaki Gomenten for dinner. And of course, we’ll be making a stop at Plugs Market Kochi Store for some local shopping. I’m looking forward to another day of exploration and discovery here in Shikoku! I am especially excited to see the Kurushima Strait Observatory, and will make sure to bring my camera.

“The world is a book, and those who do not travel read only one page.” – St. Augustine. For me, each day is a new page in that book, filled with unique stories and experiences.

Good night from Kochi!