Family Adventure on Shikoku Island: A Cultural Journey in Japan

Kochi's Contrasts: From Ancient Fortresses to Beloved Cartoons

Today was a delightful blend of history and pure, unadulterated fun! Shikoku Island continues to surprise and enchant us with its unique offerings. We dove headfirst into Kochi's past at the majestic Kochi Castle and then took a whimsical turn into the colorful world of Anpanman. It's amazing how one day can hold such diverse experiences, creating memories that I know Maya will cherish for years to come.

Our day began with a hearty breakfast at Tataki Kobo [i]. I had heard so much about Kochi's specialty, katsuo no tataki (lightly broiled bonito), and I was eager to start my day with it. Liam and Maya joined me, both curious about this local delicacy. The smoky flavor of the seared bonito, combined with the fresh garlic, ginger, and citrus soy sauce, was an absolute explosion of taste. It was the perfect way to fuel up for a day of exploring.

Stepping Back in Time at Kochi Castle

After breakfast, we made our way to Kochi Castle, a landmark that stands proudly in the heart of the city. As we approached, I was immediately struck by its imposing presence. It's not just a beautiful structure; it's a window into Japan's feudal past.

Kochi Castle is special because it’s one of the few castles in Japan that still has its original main keep. Built in the early 17th century by Yamauchi Kazutoyo, the first lord of the Tosa Domain, it has survived fires, wars, and other catastrophes. Walking through the castle grounds felt like stepping back in time. The intricate details of the architecture, from the statues of the shachi sea creatures on the roof to the sturdy stone walls, were truly impressive.

History is not a burden on the memory but an illumination of the soul.

We climbed to the top of the main keep, where we were rewarded with a breathtaking 360-degree panoramic view of Kochi City. It was easy to imagine feudal lords surveying their domain from this vantage point. Maya was fascinated by the ninja repellants, spikes on the northeast corner of the wall, a unique feature of Kochi Castle. We explored the honmaru-goten, the main palace, which is one of the only two remaining in Japan. It gave us a glimpse into the lives of the feudal lords who once resided and governed from here.


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

After spending a few hours immersed in history, we decided to grab lunch at Hakkenden Nankoku Osone. This restaurant is known for its authentic yakitori and traditional izakaya dining, offering a delightful culinary experience. The savory skewers and cozy atmosphere were a welcome break, and we enjoyed sampling a variety of local dishes.

A Whimsical Journey to Anpanman Museum

With our bellies full and spirits high, we set off for the Kami City Takashi Yanase Memorial Hall & Anpanman Museum. This museum is dedicated to Takashi Yanase, the creator of Anpanman, a beloved superhero figure in Japan. I wasn't sure what to expect, but I knew Maya would be thrilled.

As we approached the museum, the atmosphere shifted from historical to utterly whimsical. The colorful building and playful statues of Anpanman and his friends immediately brought a smile to my face. The museum is located in Kami City, Yanase's hometown, surrounded by the beautiful Monobe River and lush mountains.

Inside, we were transported to the world of Anpanman. The museum features original artwork from Yanase's picture books, large tableaus of Anpanman characters, and dioramas of the town where Anpanman and his friends live. Maya was absolutely mesmerized by the Anpanman World, an underground area where she could explore the streets and meet her favorite characters. I was touched by Yanase's message of kindness and helping others, which is at the heart of the Anpanman series.


Explore the enchanting world of Anpanman at the Kami City Takashi Yanase Memorial Hall & Anpanman Museum, a joyful experience for families and fans alike.

The museum also includes the Poem & Märchen Gallery, which showcases Yanase's other works and the works of other picture book authors. It was fascinating to see the breadth of Yanase's creativity and his contributions to children's literature.

Before heading back to Kochi, we stopped by Island Mishima for a bit of shopping. I was hoping to find some unique souvenirs to remind us of our time in Kochi, but it turned out to be a general shopping center. Still, we enjoyed browsing the local goods and picking up a few treats for the road.

For dinner, we had a reservation at Kohanyu, a restaurant and café known for its unique culinary experience. Located in Kami, it’s a bit of a drive, but I had read wonderful reviews. They focus on local ingredients and traditional cooking techniques. The atmosphere was serene, with views of the Monobe River. The full-course meal featured organic vegetables from their garden and locally grown rice. It was a nourishing and delicious end to a full day.

As I reflect on today, I am struck by the diversity of experiences Shikoku Island offers. From the historical grandeur of Kochi Castle to the whimsical charm of the Anpanman Museum, there is something for everyone. And tomorrow, we're off to explore more of what Kochi has to offer! We plan to visit the Heike Yashiki Museum of Folklore and the Umpenji Temple. I can’t wait to see what other hidden gems we will discover on this incredible journey!

I heard that there is a Koresawa concert in Kochi tonight. I wish I could go, but with Maya and Liam, that won't be possible. Maybe next time!