Top Kochi Prefecture Day Trips

This is a multi-activity tour that explores the Shimanto river valley. You will travel first by train, then by bike, and finally by raft, through the natural splendor of this untrammeled region of Kochi. Along the way you will meet an artisan iron-worker practicing his traditional craft. You will see the inner-workings of his workshop and hear how his trade has passed down through the generations. Later you will have lunch overlooking the valley, and finally you will board a raft for a thrilling ride on the river.

Discover the best of Kochi in a compact, full-day tour that weaves together nature, history, and local charm. Start at Chikurinji Temple. Return to the city for lunch at Hirome Market, where the lively, communal atmosphere invites spontaneous encounters and a real taste of local life. Then explore Kochi Castle, one of Japan’s few original castles. Its preserved wooden interiors and hilltop views offer a rare, authentic glimpse into samurai-era Japan. Finish at Katsurahama, a beautiful beach known for its crashing waves and the iconic statue of Sakamoto Ryoma—a striking place where nature and history meet.

The 196 km Shimanto River is one of Japan's last remaining undammed rivers, famous for its clear water, unspoilt surroundings and distinctive chikabashi submersible bridges, built to withstand flooding. Enjoy the region’s incredible natural beauty as you journey from the headwaters of the mighty river all the way along the lowly flowing river to the Pacific Ocean. It is a wonderful way to glimpse the lives of people who have long lived in harmony with nature in an environment largely unchanged for centuries.