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

Kochi's Charms: A Blend of History and Local Life

Today was all about diving into the heart of Kochi, blending historical exploration with the vibrant energy of local life. With Olivia and Ethan in tow, we set out to discover what makes this city tick. It's days like these that remind me why we love traveling as a family – the shared experiences, the unexpected discoveries, and the way each of us brings a unique perspective to our adventures.

Our day began with a hearty breakfast at Joyfull Kochi Otsu Shop. It wasn't anything fancy, but it fueled us up for the day ahead. I always appreciate a good, simple breakfast before a day of exploring. Reminds me of the no-fuss breakfasts back in Truro. It's funny how certain things can transport you back to your childhood in an instant.

Kochi Castle: A Glimpse into the Past

First on the agenda was Kochi Castle, a landmark that dominates the city's skyline. As one of only twelve castles in Japan to have survived the post-feudal era, it was impossible to miss. The castle dates back to the early 17th century, with most of its main buildings reconstructed in 1748 after a fire. It served as the seat of the Yamauchi lords, who ruled over the Tosa region during the Edo Period. The castle is a testament to Japanese craftsmanship, and its well-preserved state offers a tangible link to the past. It's quite something to stand in a place that has witnessed so much history.


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

The climb up to the castle keep was a bit of a workout, especially in the summer heat, but the panoramic views from the top were well worth the effort. You could see the entire city sprawling below, with the mountains providing a stunning backdrop. Ethan, of course, was more interested in taking photos for his Instagram, while Olivia was captivated by the intricate details of the castle's architecture. I found myself imagining what life must have been like for the lords and their families who once resided here. Must have been quite something.

The castle itself is an impressive structure, but it was the surrounding grounds that really captured my imagination. The lush greenery, the ancient trees, and the meticulously maintained gardens created a sense of tranquility that was a welcome contrast to the bustling city outside. We spent a good hour wandering around, soaking up the atmosphere and taking in the sights. And for those interested in history, the castle buildings are designated as important cultural properties, housing local treasures and historical objects, providing an even deeper dive into the region's past.

To truly appreciate a place, you must immerse yourself in its history and culture.

The Hustle and Bustle of Kochi Sunday Market

After our historical immersion, we headed to the Kochi Sunday Market, a vibrant street market that stretches for over a kilometer along Otesuji Street, right next to Kochi Castle. This market has been a local institution for over 300 years, reflecting the Tosa history since 1690. It's held every Sunday and attracts around 17,000 visitors each market day. The market offered a sensory overload of sights, sounds, and smells. Stalls lined the street, selling everything from fresh produce and local delicacies to handmade crafts and antiques. It was a feast for the senses, and we were eager to dive in.


Discover the lively atmosphere of Kochi Sunday Market, where local flavors, crafts, and culture come together in a vibrant street market experience.

Olivia was in her element, haggling with vendors over the price of some local fruits and vegetables. She has a knack for finding the best deals, a skill she honed during our travels through Southeast Asia. Ethan, on the other hand, was more interested in sampling the street food. He tried everything from *imoten* (sweet potato tempura) to *inaka-sushi* (country-style sushi), declaring each dish to be Instagrammable. I was just happy to soak up the atmosphere, watching the locals interact and observing the rhythms of daily life. It's moments like these that make me feel connected to a place, that give me a sense of belonging.

The market was a great place to try some of Kochi's local specialties. We sampled *katsuo no tataki*, seared bonito fish, which is a must-try in Kochi. The recommendation is to add salt and sliced garlic before tasting, which I did, and it was absolutely delicious. We also tried some local yuzu citrus fruit drinks and sweets, which were refreshing in the summer heat. The variety of food was amazing, and it was clear that the locals take great pride in their culinary traditions.

I was particularly impressed by the variety of local produce on display. From the *buntan*, a citrus fruit the size of a grapefruit, to the *ginger root*, which Kochi is known for producing, there was no shortage of interesting ingredients to discover. I even picked up a few spices to bring back home, hoping to recreate some of the flavors of Kochi in my own kitchen. Maybe I can even incorporate them into my homebrewing experiments.

A Relaxing Evening in Kochi

After a full day of exploring, we were ready for a relaxing evening. We had lunch at Osusowake Shokudo Mado, a local spot that came highly recommended. The food was simple but delicious, and the atmosphere was warm and inviting. It was the perfect place to unwind and recharge before our next adventure.


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

For dinner, we decided to try Kohanyu, another local restaurant known for its traditional cuisine. The food was excellent, and the service was impeccable. It was a great way to end our day in Kochi, savoring the flavors of the region and reflecting on our experiences. I always appreciate a good meal after a long day of exploring, and Kohanyu did not disappoint.


Discover Kohanyu in Kochi: A charming restaurant offering traditional Japanese cuisine and a cozy café atmosphere perfect for tourists.

To cap off the evening, I managed to sneak away for a quick pint at BAR OOKUNI, a local watering hole that seemed to be popular with the locals. It was nothing fancy, but it had a certain charm that I found appealing. I enjoyed chatting with the bartender and sampling some of the local beers. It's always interesting to see what the local breweries are up to, and I was impressed by the quality of the brews on offer. It gave me some ideas for my own homebrewing back in Kelowna.


Experience the lively nightlife at Bar Ookuni, Kochi's favorite bar for local drinks and vibrant social atmosphere.

The bar was cozy, and it was easy to strike up conversations with the locals. I learned a bit about Kochi's reputation as a city of drinkers. Apparently, there's even a saying that alcohol is a religion here, a play on words since both are pronounced *shukyo* in Japanese. It seems like people in Kochi work hard and play hard, and they enjoy unwinding with a drink after a long day. I can certainly relate to that.

As I sipped my beer, I thought about the day's adventures. From the historical grandeur of Kochi Castle to the bustling energy of the Sunday Market, we had experienced a wide range of sights and sounds. It was a day that had deepened my appreciation for Kochi and its unique culture. It's these kinds of experiences that make traveling so rewarding.

Looking Ahead

Tomorrow, we're heading into the mountains to explore Shikoku Karst and Lake Sameura. I'm excited to see a different side of Shikoku, to escape the city and immerse ourselves in nature. Olivia is looking forward to taking some landscape photos, and Ethan is eager to try out his new hiking boots. As for me, I'm just happy to be spending time with my family, exploring new places and creating lasting memories. We'll be grabbing breakfast at Yuzuan Restaurant before we head out, and I'm already looking forward to trying some of their local specialties.

Before heading back to the guesthouse, I picked up a small bottle of local sake from a vendor at the market. I plan to enjoy it tonight, while I reflect on our adventures and plan for tomorrow's excursion. It's these little moments of peace and reflection that make traveling so special. Until tomorrow, *kampai*!

I can't wait to see what tomorrow brings. Shikoku Karst and Lake Sameura, here we come!

And perhaps a stop at Shikoku Shop 88, per Ethan's request, for some local souvenirs. Always a good idea to let him pick out a few mementos of our trip.