Exploring the Cultural and Natural Wonders of Shikoku Island

Echoes of the Samurai in Kochi

Today, Hans and I immersed ourselves in the history and culture of Kochi, a city that beautifully blends its past with the present. From exploring a majestic castle to savoring the region's culinary delights, Kochi offered a day full of enriching experiences.

Our day began with a delightful breakfast at Ombelico [i]. I opted for a traditional Japanese breakfast set, while Hans enjoyed a Western-style omelet. Fueled up, we set off to explore the heart of Kochi's history.

Kochi Castle: A Glimpse into Feudal Japan

Kochi Castle was our first stop, and it was truly magnificent. Perched atop Otakayama hill, the castle is one of the few original castles remaining in Japan, having survived the Edo period. As we walked through the Otemon Gate, which remarkably survived a fire that destroyed much of the castle in 1727, I couldn't help but feel a sense of awe. The meticulous reconstruction efforts between 1729 and 1753 have preserved its historical authenticity.


Explore the stunning Kochi Castle, a historical gem in Japan, showcasing beautiful architecture and rich samurai heritage amidst picturesque gardens.
The castle was originally constructed between 1601 and 1611 by Yamauchi Kazutoyo, the feudal lord of Tosa, and it served as the center of the Tosa Domain until 1871. Climbing to the top of the main keep, we were rewarded with panoramic views of Kochi City. From this vantage point, it was easy to imagine the feudal lords surveying their domain centuries ago. The intricate details of the castle's architecture, including the statues of Shachi sea creatures gazing down from the roof, were fascinating.

Exploring the main palace, or honmaru-goten, gave us a sense of how the feudal lords lived and conducted their administrative duties. It’s amazing to think that Kochi Castle is one of only two castles in Japan with a remaining main palace, and the only one where both the main keep and palace still exist. The surrounding Kochi Castle Museum of History is also worth a visit, housing an impressive collection of 67,000 historical materials and artworks.

Visiting Kochi Castle is like stepping back in time, offering a tangible connection to Japan's feudal past and the lives of the samurai who once walked its halls.

Honoring the Samurai at Kochi Station

Next, we headed to see the Statues of the Three Tosa Samurai, located near Kochi Station. These statues commemorate Hanpeita Takechi, Ryoma Sakamoto, and Nakaoka Shintaro, three influential figures who played significant roles in Japan's modernization. These statues stand in Kochi Tabi Hiroba, a tourist square in front of the station. It was inspiring to stand before these bronze figures and reflect on their contributions to Japanese history.


Discover the legacy of the Three Tosa Samurai in Kochi, where history, culture, and artistry converge in stunning statues.
Ryoma Sakamoto, in particular, is a celebrated figure in Kochi, with his image appearing throughout the city. He and his colleagues organized the Tosa Loyalist Party, advocating for reverence of the Emperor and expulsion of foreigners. The nearby information plaques provided valuable historical context, enhancing our understanding of their impact on Japanese society.

A Culinary Journey Through Kochi

For lunch, we ventured to Yoronotaki Gomenten, where we sampled local dishes. I tried the Katsuo Tataki (seared skipjack tuna), a regional specialty, while Hans opted for a hearty bowl of ramen. The restaurant had a cozy atmosphere, and the staff were incredibly welcoming.


Discover the charm of traditional Japanese izakaya dining at Yoronotaki Gomenten in Nankoku, Kochi - where flavor meets culture.
In the afternoon, we explored Takamatsu Central Shopping Street. Although technically in Takamatsu, it was easy to get confused since we are nearing the end of our trip and soon heading back to Takamatsu. This bustling arcade offered a mix of traditional shops and modern boutiques. It was a perfect spot for people-watching and soaking in the local atmosphere. The street is known as the longest shopping arcade in Japan, stretching about 2.7 kilometers. It was fascinating to see the blend of old and new, with traditional shops alongside contemporary brands.


Explore the lively Takamatsu Central Shopping Street for a rich blend of shopping, dining, and local culture in the heart of Kagawa.
For dinner, we indulged in another culinary adventure at Tataki Kobo. This restaurant is known for its focus on local ingredients and authentic cooking methods. We savored fresh sashimi, grilled fish, and seasonal vegetable tempura, all prepared with meticulous attention to detail. The commitment to sustainability and local sourcing was evident in every dish.


Discover authentic flavors at Tataki Kobo in Kochi—a must-visit Japanese regional restaurant showcasing local culinary delights.

Reflections on the Day

As the day drew to a close, we reflected on the rich experiences we had in Kochi. The city’s blend of history, culture, and culinary delights made it a memorable stop on our Shikoku Island adventure. It's fascinating to see how Kochi has preserved its heritage while embracing modernity.

Tomorrow, we will be saying our final goodbyes to Shikoku Island. We plan to visit the Shikoku Automobile Museum and the Yokai House before heading to the airport [i]. I am particularly excited about the Yokai House, as I have always been intrigued by Japanese folklore. After that, we plan to grab dinner at Tosa Rokkon and maybe check out Beer Wine and Ate Mangetsu [i].

As I prepare for our final day on Shikoku Island, I am filled with gratitude for the experiences we have shared. This journey has deepened my appreciation for Japanese culture, and I look forward to sharing more stories from our travels soon. Until then, sayōnara!