OSAKA TO KOCHI;Japan's best kept secret: From Osaka to Kochi, the heart of Shikoku

The Road to Japan's Best Kept Secret

Kochi prefecture has it all. A rich experience full of beautiful nature, delicious food, crystal clear rivers, outdoor activities, and more awaits. Kochi is located in the southern part of Shikoku, which made Lonely Planet’s Best in Travel list in 2022. From lively local markets in Kochi city, to canoeing and kayaking through some of Japan’s most beautiful river valleys, the prefecture offers something for every type of traveler.

Kochi may seem a world away from the hustle and bustle of Osaka, but getting there is easier than you might think. Despite being located in southern Shikoku, it doesn't take long to get there from the main centers in Kansai like Osaka and Kyoto. Rent a car from Kansai International Airport or take in the sights from an express train. However you travel, the big cities are soon behind you and you can breathe a sigh of relief as you step into one of Japan’s hidden treasures. With many routes to choose from, find the way to explore all that Kochi has to offer that best suits you.

Kochi City (Central Kochi)

Visit the cultural heart of Kochi

Kochi City is the vibrant heart of the prefecture. Blessed with many historical and cultural attractions and some of Japan’s best cuisine, Kochi is a favorite city of seasoned travelers to Japan.
Kochi Castle is one of Japan’s 12 remaining originals. Chikurin-ji Temple is an architectural marvel, while the adjacent Makino Botanical Garden is one of the best of its kind. Back in the city, dining at Hirome Market is one of Japan’s most fun experiences. Friendly guides are on hand to ensure you get the most out of these iconic locations and more during your stay in the city.

1-Day Kochi Highlights Tour with local guide

1-day E-bike rental in Kochi city

Full-Day Private Trip with Government-Licensed Guide

Sunday Market Tour includes Kochi Castle

"E-bike" Half-day gourmet tour with a local guide

Port Pick-Up: Kochi Tour with Licensed Guide and Vehicle

Packraft tour around Kagamikawa, the castle town of Kochi

Niyodo River Basin (Central Kochi)

Marvel at the jewel in the crown of central Kochi.

A short drive from Kochi City, you will find a true hidden “gem.” It is hard to believe that the Niyodo River is so close to the city with its breathtakingly beautiful sapphire and emerald-colored waters.
The gateway to the Niyodo River is the small town of Ino, which took advantage of the river’s plentiful supply of pristine water to develop a thriving Washi traditional papermaking industry. As you head upriver, there is something for everyone: chill in cafes with idyllic views, float along the calm river, or explore hidden canyons in search of gorgeous plunge pools, the sight of which bring a tear to the eye.

Nakatsu Canyoning

Experience crystal kayaking in the middle of the Niyodo Blue

Canadian canoe experience

Suspension bridge and zip line on Niyodo Blue

Clear SUP (incl. GoPro or smartphone + drone photography)

Sauna tent packraft and coffee tour

Private Ninja Training in a Cave in Hidaka

Japanese Craft Paper & Ebike AT

Niyodo Blue River Valley Walk

Shimanto River Valley (West Kochi)

Discover Japan’s last free-flowing river

The mighty Shimanto River winds its way for 196 km to the Pacific Ocean. Following the river from its source to the ocean is an unforgettable journey through some of Japan’s most stunning scenery. Take a tour by raft, kayak, or SUP to truly appreciate the grandeur of the Shimanto Valley.
Reconnect with nature in the mountains at Washi Studio Kamikoya. Create artwork fashioned from traditional Japanese washi paper and decorated with plants and flowers picked from the garden that overlooks the mountain hamlet of Yusuhara, renowned for its collection of buildings designed by architect Kuma Kengo.

Traditional Washi Workshop

Tandem Kayak Tour along the Shimanti River Valley

One-Day Knife-Making Workshop

Japanese style leisure boat ride in the Shimanto River Valley

Packrafting tour around Shimanto River Valley

Leisurely rafting tour along the Shimanto River Valley

Half-day rafting and SUP tour

Down the Shimanto River with a packraft!

5-hour Bicycle Rental (two-seater or Electric bicycles available)

Trip through Forests and Villages by e-Bike, Riverside Road Cycling

Shimanto River Source to Sea Adventure Tour (3days)

1-day Shimanto River tour by Local Train and Bicycle

West Kochi

Kochi’s Wild West

As far as you can get from the hustle and bustle of Osaka and Kansai in both distance and atmosphere, getting to the west of Kochi requires some effort, but believe us, you won’t be disappointed. The sheer variety of landscapes and scenery here is simply mindblowing.
From whale watching in Kuroshio Town, to the dramatic cliffs of the Ashizuri Peninsular and mysterious rock formations of Tatsukushi, western Kochi will have you gasping at every turn. At the very edge of the prefecture, view the world under the crystal-clear waters of Kashiwa Island on a diving experience that rivals those of tropical islands.

Kashiwajima Island Diving Tour for Beginners

Ogata Whale Watching tour

Ashizuri Coast Discovery Walk and Boat Cruise

Guided four-wheel buggy tour [Rally course 6 hours]

East Kochi

Nature, spirituality, and culture meet in eastern Kochi

Eastern Kochi is rugged, sometimes unforgiving, but always dramatic. For centuries, the life and culture of Eastern Kochi have evolved in tandem with its environment.
The Muroto Peninsular juts into the Pacific Ocean, which pounds its rocky, black coastline. It is home to three temples on the most testing part of the Shikoku Pilgrimage. In the mountains, rural villages farm yuzu citrus that is shipped worldwide. Noneya, on the pristine None River, offers countryside stays where you can get to know the locals while making local dishes passed down for generations.

Sushi Making Class and Traditional Stay in Kochi

Muroto Sanzan: Shikoku Pilgrimage Trail

Yuzu Country Tour

North Kochi

Adventure in Kochi’s mountainous north

The Reihoku region, located north of Kochi, is the place for those searching for mountain air and fun for all the family in the great outdoors. Thrill seekers of all ages flock to ride the rapids at rafting hot spot, the Yoshino River. More sedate paddling is to be had on the serene Lake Sameura, and you can harness the power of E-bikes to cruise to spectacular viewpoints that overlook some of Japan’s most beautiful rice terraces.
Reihoku is also the best place to enjoy the elusive culinary delight of Tosa Akaushi Beef, limited to less than 500 head of cattle a year. Pair it with some of the region’s premium sake for an incredible gastronomic experience.