All Kochi Prefecture Tours & Excursions in 2026 - page 2

Discover Kochi, the gateway to southern Shikoku, on this fully private 6-hour tour led by a friendly, government-licensed guide with a private vehicle and driver. Famed for its laid-back charm, Pacific coastline, and samurai history, Kochi rewards curious travelers. Climb the original wooden keep of Kochi Castle, one of only twelve to survive in Japan, and stand beneath the bronze statue of local hero Sakamoto Ryoma above Katsurahama Beach. Sample seared bonito and sake at lively Hirome Market, cross the storied red Harimaya Bridge, and visit the serene Chikurin-ji Temple with its sweeping Godaisan views. Because the tour is completely private, the itinerary is flexible and built around you: travel at your own pace, linger wherever you like, and ask your guide anything about local history, culture, and food. With comfortable door-to-door transport and a knowledgeable local by your side, you'll enjoy the very best of Kochi in one relaxed and memorable day.

This 7-hour tour takes you to two of Kochi Prefecture's most beautiful gardens: Monet's Garden Marmottan and the Kochi Prefectural Makino Botanical Garden.In just one day, you can immerse yourself in the fantastical world that faithfully recreates the Giverny gardens where Claude Monet spent half his life and drew inspiration for his masterpieces, all set within Kochi's stunning natural scenery. You’ll also enjoy the vast botanical garden infused with the passion of Dr. Tomitaro Makino. Experience the feeling of stepping inside a painting, with expert guides sharing in-depth stories about plants and art that most visitors never hear. Perfect for adults who love art and nature, photography enthusiasts, families with children, couples seeking relaxation, and seniors looking for a peaceful escape. Step away from everyday life and immerse yourself in Kochi’s rich natural and artistic heritage for a truly special day.

■Experience a Zen journey of panoramic views, sacred practice, and reflection. ・Ideal for cruise passengers seeking authentic cultural experiences ・Practice traditional sutra copying at historic Chikurin-ji Temple ・Begin and end with panoramic views from Godaisan ・Experience Zen through three stages: Prepare, Practice, Reflect ・Enjoy a private experience with flexible pacing ・Learn about Japanese Buddhist culture through immersive practice ・All entrance fees included ・Complimentary citrus juice and biscuits ・Managed by a certified tour coordinator ■For Cruise Ship Guests Kochi Port is about 15 minutes by taxi from the Godaisan Observatory Bus Stop. Taxis are available at the port. If requested in advance, our guide can meet you at Kochi Port and accompany you to the Godaisan Observatory Bus Stop (additional taxi fee may apply). For further details, please feel free to contact us in advance.

2-day immersive professional course to study in depth the traditional techniques of Japanese washi paper making. Hone your skills under the guidance of a 4th generation craftspersons in a washi studio with over 120 years of history. Follow almost all steps of Tosa washi making with a focus on using natural ingredients in an environment-friendly way Connect your own made washi paper with a local cultural activity: a visit to a Shinto shrine to receive its official stamp or a lesson in Japanese origami and enjoy the quiet rural area near one of Japan’s clearest water basins: Niyodo River.

■Experience authentic Kochi food culture with Tosa Maki sushi making and traditional Katsuo no Tataki fire BBQ. ・Perfect for cruise travelers looking for a hands-on Japanese food experience in Kochi ・Watch a traditional Katsuo no Tataki straw-fire BBQ demonstration unique to Kochi ・Make your own Tosa Maki sushi roll using freshly grilled bonito ・Enjoy the atmosphere of SOUTH HORIZON BREWING and optional local craft beer purchases ・Beginner-friendly activity with English guidance and staff support ・Small-group experience for a relaxed and interactive atmosphere ・Conveniently located just a 5-minute walk from Kochi New Port Cruise Terminal

■Create your own Japanese cat lamp with traditional Tosa Washi. ・Perfect for travelers looking for a hands-on cultural experience in Kochi ・Make a unique glowing cat lamp using traditional Tosa Washi, a craft unique to Kochi ・Beginner-friendly workshop with staff support, suitable even for first-time makers ・Take home your handmade lamp as a one-of-a-kind Japanese souvenir ・Small-group experience with up to 8 participants for a relaxed creative atmosphere ・All materials, tools, and workshop instruction included for a smooth experience ・Conveniently located near Hirome Market in central Kochi ■For Cruise Ship Guests Kochi Port is about 20–30 minutes away by shuttle or taxi. Most cruise ships provide shuttle service to the city center, and taxis are available at the port. Pickup from Kochi Port is not available.

Try your hand at the traditional Japanese art of knife-making on this engaging workshop in Shimanto. Under watchful guidance from your instructor, a master blacksmith, heat your steel in the flames and forge your metal the traditional Japanese way. Create cutlery, kitchen knives, scissors, and more—with all necessary safety equipment provided on this hands-on workshop.

・Learn about traditional ways of making Tosa washi paper in a washi studio with over 120 years of history. ・See almost all steps of making washi paper presented in details by a 4th generation craftsperson. ・Try your hands at making new washi paper from recycling Tosa washi. ・Choose between making a colorful Tapestry, a paper lamp shade or a paper bag. ・Enjoy the quiet rural area near one of Japan’s clearest water basins: Niyodo River.

On this tour you can experience Kochi’s food culture and traditional craftsmanship at the Kochi City Central Wholesale Market. We will gather early in the morning to visit the fresh fish section, and then continue on to the produce area. With the guidance of a local vendor you’ll observe the lively fruit auction. After breakfast at a restaurant within the market, you’ll try your hand at making a bamboo basket using Torafudake, a type of bamboo native to Kochi. Your instructor is a bamboo artist who is also involved in bamboo forest preservation. To wrap up the experience, you’ll fill your handmade basket with seasonal fruits, creating your own unique fruit basket. The fruits provided can also be eaten on the spot. The Kochi City central market is a compact market with just over 20 shops in the fresh fish and produce sections. It boasts the second-longest history of any wholesale market in Japan.