Explore Kochi: private tour by Car with licensed guide

Ryugado Cave, located in Kochi Prefecture, is one of Japan’s three great limestone caves and a designated natural monument. Formed over 175 million years, it offers breathtaking stalactites, stalagmites, and dramatic stone formations. A highlight is the rare “God’s Pot,” an ancient earthenware vessel naturally encased in limestone over centuries. Visitors can enjoy the safe walking route or try the adventurous exploration course with helmets and lamps. At the exit, a museum displays archaeological finds and explains the cave’s geology, making Ryugado a unique blend of natural wonder, history, and adventure.

Chikurin-ji Temple, located on Mount Godai in Kochi, is one of the 88 temples on the famous Shikoku Pilgrimage. Founded in the 8th century by the Buddhist monk Gyoki, it is known for its beautiful five-story pagoda, tranquil garden, and impressive collection of Buddhist statues. The temple grounds offer scenic views of Kochi City and a peaceful atmosphere surrounded by nature. Visitors can stroll through its moss-covered paths, admire seasonal flowers, and experience the deep spirituality that has attracted pilgrims for over a thousand years, making it a cultural and historical gem of Kochi.

Hirome Market offers a lively and unforgettable glimpse into Kochi’s vibrant local culture, setting it apart from more traditional or tourist-oriented markets in Japan. Unlike orderly food courts or department store basements, this bustling hall brings together over 60 stalls where locals and travelers share communal tables, creating a relaxed, festive atmosphere. Visitors can sample Kochi’s famous dishes like seared bonito (katsuo no tataki) prepared on the spot, accompanied by local sake. The open, unpretentious setting encourages conversation and spontaneous encounters, making the experience as much about people as it is about food—a warm memory that lingers well beyond the meal.

Kochi Castle stands out among Japan’s castles as one of the few original structures to have survived since the Edo period, with its main keep, watchtowers, and connecting corridors all intact. Unlike many reconstructed castles, visitors here can walk through authentic wooden interiors and climb steep stairs once used by feudal lords. The castle's hilltop location offers sweeping views of the city, making the journey to the top both historically immersive and visually rewarding. Its compact yet complete layout makes it easy to grasp the daily life and defense strategy of a real samurai domain, leaving a vivid impression that lingers long after your visit.

Katsurahama is one of Kochi’s most iconic scenic destinations, offering a striking contrast between the crashing waves of the Pacific Ocean and the calm beauty of pine-lined walking paths. What sets it apart from other coastal spots in Japan is its deep connection to history—most notably the towering statue of Sakamoto Ryoma, a local hero who helped shape modern Japan. Visitors can enjoy panoramic ocean views, explore the Sakamoto Ryoma Memorial Museum, and take in the unique atmosphere that blends natural grandeur with a strong sense of place and identity, leaving a lasting impression long after the visit ends.