[2025 Kochi Attraction] Travel Guide for Katsurahama Beach (Updated Mar)

Katsurahama, one of Kochi Prefecture's scenic spots, is also home to Cape Ryuo, the statue of Ryoma Sakamoto, Katsurahama Aquarium, a wide sandy beach, and a walking path. The contrast between the pine trees, the beach, and the sea is beautiful, and the scenery is amazing. There is also a restaurant nearby, and I tried the yuzu sorbet and Kochi Prefecture matcha ice cream. Both were delicious! It took about 40 minutes by bus from Kochi Station to Katsurahama. #Tourist Spot #Katsurahama #Statue of Ryoma Sakamoto #Cape Ryuo Observatory

It takes about 3.5 hours to get from Ehime Matsuyama to Kochi City in Kochi Prefecture without taking the highway. It is very beautiful if you walk during the day. This mountain road is really a treasure. You can stop and take a look if you have time. Day 1⃣️ Matsuyama-Kochi ⛩️ New Year's Eve at Hachimangu Shrine It was already evening when we arrived in Kochi, and there was about an hour left until New Year's Eve. We found that the Hachimangu Shrine in the ancient Kochi Castle was near the hotel. The front desk just mentioned that every shrine had the same grand New Year's welcoming ceremony, so we went. We arrived at the shrine at around 11:30 pm and saw that the stalls had already been set up: sacred sake (pay as you like), amulet stalls (mostly for traffic safety, others for safe delivery, victory, fortune, etc.), goshuin (New Year special edition 1500 yen), decorations (mostly 1500, for use at home). There is a draw. The shrine also has divine horses, divine doves, and paper snakes. Go wash your hands first, it’s a ferocious dragon. Then everyone lined up to make a wish at 12 o'clock. When 12 o'clock arrived, the New Year arrived and the 108 bells 🔔 gradually rang. Everyone put in coins, made a wish, rang the bell, clapped and bowed, drank the sacred wine, bought amulets, and drew fortune sticks (I drew two fortune sticks!!! I will definitely have good luck next year!). After walking around for a while, we left at around 12:40. Day 2⃣️ Kochi 🏯 Kochi Castle Kochi Castle, one of Japan's national treasures, is easier to climb than Matsuyama Castle. Among Japanese castles, Kochi Castle is one of the 12 castle towers that still exist before the Edo period. Kochi Castle is the only castle where the Honmaru Palace and the castle tower are connected, and is a precious relic. The view from the castle tower and the tropical Tosa breeze make this a charming castle that makes you feel the historical romance from the Edo period to the present. ⛩️ Shioe Tenmangu Shrine The main deity is Sugawara no Michizane, a famous minister of the Heian dynasty, who excelled in politics, culture, and academics and possessed infinite holiness. There are also four other deities. Ask for a talisman in the new year and pray for everything to go smoothly. Go to the snack street to eat some authentic snacks. 🌄 Katsurahama Ryuo Cape Located in Katsurahama Park, it seems to be connected to the beach at first glance, but in fact it is almost an independent stone mountain, so you have to cross the Ryugu Bridge to climb up. There are two shrines here, and it is also a popular spot in Katsurahama. Day 3⃣️ Kochi-Muroto In the morning, we drove along the coastline from Kochi City to Muroto to see the beautiful sea. ⛩ No. 24 of 88 temples: Sai Misakiji Temple Of course, we need to pray on the first day of the new year. There is a bell stone in the temple. If you hit it with a small stone, it will make a sound like a bell, which is magical. ⚓️ Lovers' spot - Muroto Lighthouse If you walk left from the temple, you will reach Muroto Lighthouse, one of the three major lovers' spots in Muroto. The pure white tower body symbolizes pure love, and the glass sphere on the tower sparkles in the sun. From here you can also overlook the entire peaceful Tosa Bay. 🌌 Lovers' spot - Muroto Observation Deck From the observation deck, you can have a 360-degree view of the beautiful Tosa Bay, watch the breeze blow, and watch the waves hit the shore. 🐳 Abandoned School Aquarium The local government, in conjunction with the local Sea Turtle Protection Association, transformed the abandoned school into an aquarium to make full use of its educational significance. Suitable for adults too! Lots of rare deep sea fish. ⛩️ Nippo Shrine Return to Komatsushima City and watch the sunset from a high point in the city.

📍Katsurahama Beach Facing the majestic Pacific Ocean, Katsurahama Beach is famous as a place to see the moon, and is a scenic spot that is also sung about in Yosakoi songs. The arch-shaped coastline is a scenic spot where the green of the pine trees and the deep blue sea are in harmony, and there is a bronze statue of Kochi's hero, Ryoma Sakamoto, which is very famous for staring at the rough waves of the Pacific Ocean. If you want to know more about Ryoma, you can also enjoy the nearby Ryoma Sakamoto Ryoma Memorial Museum. The entire beach is Katsurahama Park, and there is a shop within the park. In addition, there are facilities such as Tosainu Park and Katsurahama Aquarium, so it is recommended to visit these facilities. In addition, the souvenir area "Sea Terrace" will be reopened in October 2022. It will have its grand opening in March 2023, and has become one of Kochi's most famous tourist spots. #FreeHotelStay

| An in-depth guide to a hidden gem. Dear friends👫, today I want to share with you a charming hidden gem in Japan - Kochi. There are so many surprises here, so hurry up and save this guide👇 Must-see attractions 1. Kochi Castle🌟 As the only castle in Japan with a complete main keep, it was built in the early 17th century and is an important castle of the Edo period. The castle tower perfectly showcases the traditional Japanese castle architecture style. Climb to the top floor and enjoy the stunning view of Kochi City. The museum inside the castle displays historical artifacts, bringing the construction process and war history of Kochi Castle to life. 2. Katsurahama Park🌊 A landmark attraction in Kochi, facing the Pacific Ocean, it is incredibly romantic. The famous Ryuzu Cape and Sakamoto Ryoma statue are located here. The Goshiki Terrace and Katsurahama Aquarium are also great for taking photos. The park has excellent commercial facilities and rest areas, so you won't have to worry about food and drink when you're tired. 3. Godaisan🌳 A perfect blend of nature and history. Chikurinji Temple is tranquil and serene, while the botanical garden is full of life. Strolling through, you can enjoy the beauty of nature and the rich cultural heritage. 4. Hirome Market🍱 A lively market where you can buy many local specialties and delicacies. Be sure to try the katsuo no tataki and seafood rice bowl, as the delicious flavors will explode on your taste buds. 5. Kagamigawa Promenade and Godaisan Park🌿 A beautiful natural park with few people, perfect for walking and taking photos. Here, you can quietly enjoy the tranquility of nature, as if time has slowed down. Convenient transportation Kochi City has very convenient transportation🚇. From the JR station, you can take a bus or tram directly to various attractions. For example, there is a direct bus to Katsurahama Park every hour. If you want to save some money, you can get off at the Hashikawa 5-chome Station and transfer to the tram, which is also very convenient. Quality accommodation I highly recommend staying at the OMO7 Kochi Hotel🏨 in the city center. It is located at Harimayabashi, making it convenient to take a bus or the Tosa Electric Railway. The hotel has a simple and cozy design, with spacious rooms and great city views. The most surprising thing is the hot spring. After soaking in the hot spring at night, you can join the Yosakoi Festival, which is incredibly relaxing. Kochi is truly a place worth visiting, so hurry up and plan your trip💕

Kochi City: A hidden gem for niche travel Located on the southern tip of Shikoku Island, Japan, Kochi City is like a pearl in the wilderness, exuding a unique charm and offering a unique travel experience for those who crave to explore niche destinations. Stepping into Kochi Castle is like traveling back in time to Japan's feudal era. Built in 1603, this castle is one of the twelve remaining wooden castles in Japan. The stone walls and wooden buildings complement each other, exuding a rustic and elegant atmosphere. Walking along the cobblestone path and touching the mottled walls, you can almost see the swords and shadows of the past. Climbing to the top of the castle, you can see the entire city of Kochi, with its modern buildings and lush parks interwoven, showing a unique beauty of history and modernity. The coastal scenery of Katsurahama is like a dream. When the sea breeze gently caresses your cheeks, the salty and wet air brings greetings from the sea. The endless Pacific Ocean glistens, and the waves rhythmically beat against the beach, leaving a string of white foam. On the shore, the statue of Ryoma Sakamoto shines in the sunlight. As an important figure in the Meiji Restoration period, Ryoma's story adds a touch of legend to this beach. Here, you can stroll along the coastline, feel the vastness and inclusiveness of the sea, or sit quietly on the beach, listen to the sound of the waves, and let your mind find a moment of peace. Kochi's food culture is rich and colorful, and Hirome Market is the perfect place to taste local delicacies. The market is bustling with stalls full of fresh ingredients and specialty snacks. Bonito is Kochi's signature dish, and freshly caught bonito is quickly sent to the grill, where the flames lick the fish, and soon the skin becomes golden and crispy, while the inside is tender and juicy. Paired with local soy sauce and wasabi, the fresh and fragrant taste instantly spreads in your mouth. In addition to bonito, Kochi ramen is also a must-try. The rich pork bone broth is paired with chewy noodles, tender char siu, and crispy vegetables, making every bite unforgettable. In addition to these famous attractions and delicacies, Kochi City also has many hidden treasure shops in the alleys. Traditional handicraft shops display exquisite pottery, lacquerware, and woven products, each of which embodies the hard work and wisdom of craftsmen. In the small taverns on the street, people sit together, tasting local sake and sharing bits and pieces of life. Here, you can feel the strong human touch and slow-paced lifestyle. Kochi City, a niche and charming city, offers every visitor an unforgettable travel memory with its unique history, culture, natural scenery, and food. If you are tired of the crowds and noise of popular tourist destinations, why not come to Kochi City, explore this forgotten corner of the world, and discover your own surprises?

Kochi City: A Hidden Gem in Japan Located on the southern tip of Shikoku Island, Kochi City is like an unpolished gem, exuding a simple yet charming aura. This city is rich in history, boasts stunning natural landscapes, and is home to mouthwatering unique cuisine. Stepping into Kochi Castle is like traveling back in time to the Edo period. Built in 1603, this castle is one of the few remaining wooden castles in Japan. As you stroll through the castle grounds, the weathered stone walls and ancient buildings quietly tell the story of over 400 years of history. From the top of the castle tower, you can enjoy a panoramic view of Kochi City, where rows of houses and lush parks intertwine in a peaceful and harmonious scene. The scenery at Katsurahama Beach is mesmerizing. Along the long coastline, the waves of the Pacific Ocean continuously crash onto the shore. The sea breeze, carrying a salty scent, rushes towards you, and in the distance, the sea and sky meet in a vast expanse of blue. The statue of Sakamoto Ryoma, a key figure in Japan's Meiji Restoration, stands resolute under the sunlight, adding a rich cultural depth to the seaside. To experience the authentic taste of Kochi, you must visit Hirome Market. This bustling market is a food lover's paradise. Freshly caught bonito is expertly grilled by vendors, with a slightly charred exterior and tender interior, paired with a unique local sauce, each bite is a gift from the sea. The market also offers a variety of local snacks, such as Kochi soba noodles, which are smooth and flavorful, served with a rich broth that leaves you wanting more. In Kochi City, history, nature, and cuisine blend perfectly. Whether you're strolling through the ancient city to feel the weight of history, enjoying a leisurely time by the sea, or savoring local delicacies, you're sure to create unique travel memories.

Kochi City: Encounter a Different Side of Japan Located on the southern tip of Shikoku Island, Kochi City is like an unpolished gem, quietly exuding its unique charm, inviting you to embark on a niche and exciting journey. Stepping into Kochi Castle, it feels as if time has turned back to the Edo period. Built in 1603, this castle is a precious wooden structure in Japan. The ancient gates and thick walls silently tell stories of past glory and vicissitudes. As you stroll through, the touch of the stone paths and the texture of the wooden buildings convey the warmth of history. Climbing to the top of the castle, a gentle breeze caresses your face, and the entire city unfolds before your eyes. The scattered houses and lush greenery weave a tranquil and harmonious picture, evoking images of samurai from the past. The coastal scenery of Katsurahama is a breathtaking masterpiece of nature. The endless coastline stretches as far as the eye can see, with the vast Pacific Ocean shimmering in the sunlight. Waves crash against the shore, creating a melodious symphony. The sea breeze, carrying the scent of the ocean, gently brushes your face, bringing a sense of relaxation. The statue of Sakamoto Ryoma stands on the shore, gazing into the distance. This hero, who played a significant role in Japan's modernization, adds a rich cultural layer to the beach. Visitors stroll along the sand or pause in front of the statue, immersed in the unique atmosphere where nature and history intertwine. Kochi's cuisine is a feast for the senses that should not be missed. The bustling Hirome Market is a paradise for food lovers. Freshly caught bonito is the star ingredient here. Vendors grill it on the spot, and the flames lick the fish, turning the skin golden and crispy while keeping the inside tender and juicy. The unique "assault eating method" allows diners to taste the freshest flavor of bonito immediately, paired with a special sauce that bursts with umami on the palate. Besides bonito, the market offers a variety of local snacks. Kochi ramen, with thin noodles in rich pork bone broth, garnished with tender char siu and crispy vegetables, is a bowl full of local flavor. In Kochi, you can escape the hustle and bustle of the city, feel the passage of time in historical sites, relax by the sea, enjoy the soothing touch of nature, and wander through the streets in search of the satisfaction brought by authentic local cuisine. With its unique charm, Kochi City creates unforgettable travel memories for every visitor, becoming a shining niche treasure in Japan's travel map, waiting for more people to uncover its mysterious and captivating veil.

Kochi: A Hidden Gem in Shikoku, Japan Located in the south of Shikoku Island, Japan, Kochi City exudes a unique and charming allure. Surrounded by mountains and the sea, this small city boasts stunning natural scenery. As a landmark of Kochi, Kochi Castle has a rich history. Despite the passage of time, the main building, Tenshukaku, still stands tall. From the castle tower, you can overlook the entire city. At Katsurahama Beach in Kochi, the sea breeze gently caresses your face, and the vast Pacific Ocean stretches before you. The statue of Sakamoto Ryoma on the shore reminds you of this legendary figure who played a significant role in Japan's modernization. Kochi's cuisine is not to be missed. Hirome Market is bustling with activity, and the aroma of freshly grilled bonito fills the air. The unique "assault eating method" adds a touch of fun. The izakayas in the streets and alleys are filled with local sake, which has a refreshing taste. Paired with local snacks, it is a feast for the taste buds. Kochi City is a hidden gem in Japan, offering a blend of history, nature, and culinary delights.

👍️Recommended Reasons: Katsurahama Beach is one of the most popular attractions in Kochi City, known for its crescent-shaped beach, majestic Pacific waves, and rich history. It is not only a great place to enjoy the Pacific Ocean view, but also a sacred place to admire the statue of Sakamoto Ryoma, a hero of the Bakumatsu and Meiji Restoration. The pine forest, rocky beach, and blue sea create a magnificent picture of tranquility and power, making it a must-see landmark in Kochi. 📅Travel Tips: •Main Attractions: 1. Sakamoto Ryoma Statue: •The 13-meter-high statue is a symbol of Katsurahama, facing the sea, symbolizing his vision of creating a new era. There are also small exhibition boards introducing Ryoma's life, which are perfect for history lovers. 2. Ryoma History Museum: •Located near the beach, it displays artifacts, letters, and historical materials related to Sakamoto Ryoma, providing a deeper understanding of the Bakumatsu and Meiji Restoration. Admission is about JPY 500. 3. Charming Sea View: •Although swimming is not allowed due to strong waves, enjoying the waves crashing on the shore, picking up colorful shells, or taking a quiet walk is still a lot of fun. 4. Sunrise and Sunset: •The sunrise in the morning is magnificent, while the sunset in the evening adds a touch of romance to the beach. 🚗Transportation Tips: •Public Transportation: •Take the "MY Yu Bus" from Kochi Station to Katsurahama Station, about 35 minutes one way. The bus runs all day, and the fare is about JPY 600. •Self-driving: •About 30 minutes by car from downtown Kochi, there is a paid parking lot nearby (about JPY 300 per time). •Walking Tips: •There is a short pine forest trail between the bus stop and the beach, which is suitable for a slow walk to enjoy the sea breeze and pine fragrance. 💗Other Tips: •Best Season to Visit: •Spring and autumn are cool and suitable for walking along the coast; summer is the best time to take pictures of the blue sea and sky. •Food Recommendations: •There are several small shops near the beach offering local specialties, such as bonito tataki and yuzu drinks, which are refreshing and delicious. •Notes: •Swimming is not allowed at Katsurahama Beach, and visitors should follow safety instructions and avoid dangerous areas near the water. •Special Experience: •The "Katsurahama Ryoma Festival" is held every August, featuring light shows and dance performances, which are very lively and suitable for family outings. The scenery of Katsurahama Beach is picturesque, perfectly blending the beauty of nature with the history of the Bakumatsu period. Whether you come to feel the vastness of the Pacific Ocean or follow in the footsteps of Sakamoto Ryoma, this beach will give you an unforgettable journey! 🌅⛱️

This time, I boarded a Jetstar flight from Narita Airport to Kochi Prefecture✈️ The goal was to enjoy some delicious Katsuo no Tataki! I suddenly craved some fresh seafood, so I decided to take a trip (lol). I rented a car at Kochi Airport and headed to Katsurahama for sightseeing🚗 While strolling around Katsurahama, I visited the Sakamoto Ryoma statue and the Kochi Lighthouse. Since it was around sunset, I was able to capture a beautiful sunset sinking into the horizon🙌 After leaving Katsurahama, I drove along the coast towards Tosashi! The main purpose of this trip was to eat Katsuo no Tataki at 'Kaizoku Ryori Shinryomaru'🕺 The menu had a wide variety of seafood dishes, and it was hard to choose, but I went with the Katsuo no Tataki set meal🤤 The roasted aroma, along with the green onions, garlic, and special sauce, made the rice taste even better🐟️🍚 Driving along the coast and enjoying delicious food made this trip feel like a little luxury✨

I visited Kochi, Japan, and it was an unforgettable experience! 🌸 I enjoyed wandering around local markets like Hirome Market, where I could taste delicacies such as katsu and soba. 🍜 Natural attractions like Kochi Castle and Katsurahama Beach were stunning with their captivating landscapes and beautiful sea views. 🌊 Additionally, visiting the birthplace of Ryoma Sakamoto was an opportunity to learn about the local history. 🌟 The locals were very friendly and made my visit even more enjoyable. I will definitely return to further explore the magic of this beautiful city. 🌺

Kochi Castle Katsurahama

Kochi Prefecture's famous landmark, Katsurahama Park. The statue of Sakamoto Ryoma was much larger than I imagined, and I found myself looking up at it quite a bit. Many tourists were gathered around the statue of Sakamoto Ryoma, and I thought to myself that he truly is a popular figure. Beyond that is Katsurahama Beach, where the sea is very beautiful. On a sunny day, just walking along the seaside made me feel very happy. There weren't many stalls, but it's a very soothing spot.