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

Kochi's Charms: A Day of Discovery

Today was one of those travel days that just felt…right. The kind where everything clicks, the weather cooperates, and you stumble upon hidden gems you never expected. It was a day filled with vibrant markets, breathtaking views, and delicious food, all experienced with my favorite travel companions.

Our day began early at Joyfull Kochi Otsu Shop. It's a family restaurant, and the name didn't lie, it was joyful. Alessia was particularly excited, she loves Japanese breakfasts. I opted for a traditional Japanese breakfast set. Pieter, ever the adventurous one, tried something new, a hearty plate of hamburg steak. It was a great way to start the day, setting us up for our Kochi adventures.
With our bellies full, we headed to the Kochi Sunday Market, or *Nichiyo-ichi* as the locals call it. I had read about it, but nothing prepared me for the sheer scale and energy of the place. It's been a Kochi tradition for over 300 years, and you can feel the history as you wander through the stalls.

Discover the lively atmosphere of Kochi Sunday Market, where local flavors, crafts, and culture come together in a vibrant street market experience.
The market stretched for over a kilometer, a vibrant tapestry of sights, sounds, and smells. We strolled along Otesuji Street, the palm trees providing a bit of shade from the August sun. The weather in Kochi this time of year is warm, with temperatures hovering around 28°C, and a chance of rain. Luckily, the sun was shining this morning, perfect for exploring.
The world is a book, and those who do not travel read only one page.

Exploring a local market is like reading a new chapter in that book, offering a glimpse into the heart and soul of a place.

The variety of goods on offer was incredible. Farmers sold fresh produce, their stalls overflowing with colorful vegetables and fruits. We sampled *fruit tomatoes*, chilled and incredibly sweet, and I couldn't resist buying a *buntan*, a local citrus fruit the size of my head. Alessia was fascinated by the *imo-ten*, sweet potato tempura, and we waited in line for a taste of the freshly fried treat. Pieter, ever the foodie, was eager to try the *inaka sushi*, a countryside version of sushi made with preserved vegetables. It was flavored with yuzu juice, giving it a unique citrusy flavor.
Beyond the food, there were stalls selling everything from handcrafted knives to antiques. I was tempted by the Tosa kitchen knives, known for their quality. Alessia, of course, was drawn to the colorful toys and trinkets. The atmosphere was lively and festive, with locals and tourists mingling and chatting. It felt like a true slice of Kochi life.
After immersing ourselves in the market's vibrant chaos, we decided to seek a different perspective – a bird's-eye view of Kochi from Mount Bizan. We hopped on the Bizan Ropeway, a cable car that whisked us to the summit.

Discover the breathtaking beauty of Tokushima from above with a ride on the Bizan Ropeway, a must-visit attraction for all travelers.
The base of the ropeway was easy to find, located on the 5th floor of the Awa Odori Kaikan.
As we ascended, the city unfolded beneath us, a panorama of rooftops, green spaces, and the sparkling sea in the distance. The gondolas depart frequently, and the ride to the top only takes a few minutes. At the summit, the views were breathtaking. From the top, we could see Tokushima City, Awaji Island, and the Kii Peninsula. The air was fresh and clean, a welcome contrast to the bustling market below. Alessia was thrilled, pointing out landmarks and chattering excitedly about how small everything looked from up high.
We spent some time exploring the summit, taking photos and simply soaking in the scenery. Mount Bizan has cultural significance, and there's a sense of peace and tranquility about the place. It was a perfect spot for reflection, a moment to appreciate the beauty of Shikoku.
As evening approached, our thoughts turned to dinner. Based on a recommendation, we chose Tosa Rokkon, a restaurant known for its authentic Japanese cuisine.

Experience authentic Japanese cuisine at Tosa Rokkon in Kami, Kochi - where tradition meets flavor in every dish.
It was a bit of a drive to Kami, but well worth it. The restaurant is dedicated to traditional cooking methods and uses high-quality, local ingredients.
The atmosphere was warm and inviting, and the staff were incredibly welcoming. We started with some local specialties, including sushi and sashimi. For the main course, I opted for a seasonal dish featuring fresh vegetables. Pieter, again, chose a regional dish, and Alessia enjoyed a simple, but delicious, fish. The flavors were exquisite, each dish a testament to the chef's skill and the quality of the ingredients.
After dinner, Pieter and I decided to check out Bar Rokudenashi, while Alessia was sleeping.

Experience the vibrant nightlife of Tokushima at Bar Rokudenashi, where local spirits and friendly faces await.
It was a small, cozy place, with a lively atmosphere. The drinks were expertly crafted, and the bartender was friendly and engaging. It was the perfect way to end a perfect day.
Tomorrow, we're off to see the Naruto Whirlpools and Umpenji Temple. I'm excited to experience more of Shikoku's natural beauty and cultural heritage. But for tonight, I'm content to savor the memories of a day well spent in Kochi.
Before I go to bed, I need to remember to charge our portable phone charger and find a first aid kit. I keep forgetting about them!