Kochi Travel / Kochi Tour

The castle was constructed over a period of 10 years starting in 1601 by Yamauchi Kazutoyo, the first lord of the Tosa clan. In 1727, most of it was destroyed in a major fire in the castle town, but in 1753, the castle was rebuilt almost entirely exactly as it was when it was first built. It is one of the few castles in Japan that still retains its original appearance, and the four-story watchtower-style castle tower, Honmaru Palace, and Corridor Gate are designated as Important Cultural Properties by the national government. There are also many other sights to see, such as the Ote-mon Gate, Tsume-mon Gate, and Yahazama-bei Wall.

Katsurahama Beach stretches out in a bow shape between Cape Ryuzu and Cape Ryuo in Kochi Prefecture. The contrast between the green of the pine trees in the background and the blue of the Pacific Ocean is beautiful, and the beach is also known as a famous spot to view the moon. Cape Ryuzu is home to the largest statue of Sakamoto Ryoma in Japan, standing at over 13 meters, making it a popular photo spot. Nearby is the Sakamoto Ryoma Memorial Museum, which displays materials related to Ryoma, so we recommend visiting both places.

This great river is famous as the last clear stream in Japan. In spring, you can see a yellow carpet of rape blossoms, and on early summer nights, you can see the fantastic sight of fireflies scattering like fireworks. In addition, the natural riverbank is spanned by a "submerged bridge" without a railing, which was built to prevent the river from being washed away during high water, creating a tranquil landscape.

Enjoy a stroll through the Flower Garden, Water Garden, and Bordighera Garden, three gardens which recreate the Mediterranean scenery and gardens of Giverny, France, which Claude Monet loved so much, in the natural surroundings of Kitagawa village.