Experience Kochi: A Tapestry of Timeless Traditions and Contemporary Life

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Tucked away on the southern edge of Shikoku Island, Kochi Prefecture is where untouched nature, vibrant local culture, and authentic Japanese experiences converge. Still flying under the radar for many international travelers, Kochi is a true hidden gem-a place where you don't just observe Japan; you live it.
Access to Kochi Prefecture

Despite its off-the-beaten-path reputation, Kochi is easier to reach than you expect. Kochi Ryoma Airport connects with Tokyo, Osaka, Fukuoka, and Nagoya via frequent domestic flights. Budget-conscious travelers can take advantage of low-cost carrier Jetstar Japan, flying from Tokyo Narita Airport -ideal for international visitors planning multi-city itineraries.

If you prefer a more scenic route, please consider taking the Shinkansen to Okayama, followed by a limited express train to Kochi, offering a front-row view of the mountains, rivers, and coastlines that make the journey part of the adventure.

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Kengo Kuma's Architectural Legacy in Yusuhara

World-renowned architect Kengo Kuma, known for his work that harmonizes natural materials like wood and earth, has left a remarkable footprint in the small mountain town of Yusuhara. This area, nicknamed "the town above the clouds", features five Kuma-designed buildings, all seamlessly integrated with the local environment and culture:

Yusuhara Town Office

Kumo-no-Ue-no Library(Yusuhara Town Library)

Kumo-no-Ue-no Gallery (Wooden Bridge-Shaped Art Gallery)

YURURI Yusuhara (Yusuhara Town Integrated Welfare Facility)

Machi-no-Eki Yusuhara (Community Market and Hotel)

Visitors can join a guided architecture tour led by local experts, offering in-depth insights into each building and its connection to the community.

Yusuhara is more than a town-it's a living museum of contemporary Japanese architecture, blending tradition and innovation in every corner.

Yosakoi Culture - A Festival of Dance and Community

Held annually from August 9 to 12 in Kochi City, the Yosakoi Festival is one of Japan's most dynamic and colorful summer events. Since its start in 1954, the festival has grown into a vibrant celebration of community and creativity, inspiring similar events across Japan and abroad.

During the festival, the entire city transforms into a stage, with thousands of dancers parading through the streets wearing vibrant costumes. The dancers performe choreographed routines to the music based on a folk song called yosakoi-bushi, while rhythmically clicking small wooden clappers unique to Yosakoi.

For those visiting outside the festival dates, the Kochi Yosakoi Museum in central Kochi offers a year-round glimpse into this cultural tradition. Visitors can explore costumes, naruko clappers, and even try on outfits and learn dance moves-making it easy to experience the spirit of Yosakoi any time of year.

Ekin Museum

Located in Akaoka Town, Ekin Museum is a cultural facility dedicated to the works of Ekin, a 19th-century painter known for his vivid, dramatic folding screen paintings inspired by kabuki theater.

Once a court painter in Kochi's samurai society, Ekin was exiled after a rumored scandal and went on to develop a uniquely expressive style, often portraying intense scenes of blood, betrayal, and passion.

At Ekin Museum, these artworks are displayed in a darkened gallery lit only by candlelight, enhancing their theatrical atmosphere. Most of the works you can see up close are reproductions, but you can also view the original works through peepholes for preservation purposes.

Recognized as an important tangible cultural property by Kochi Prefecture, Ekin Museum, preserves a powerful chapter of local art history and offers an immersive journey into Japan's Edo-period imagination.

Tosa Sake

Blessed with pure rivers and quality local rice, Tosa sake (sake from Kochi Prefecture) is renowned for its dry, crisp flavor and excellent compatibility with local cuisine.

Kochi is home to 19 sake breweries, each crafting distinct varieties that reflect the character of their region. Many breweries offer guided tours, tastings, and educational experiences for visitors to enjoy.

One unique tradition is the use of "bekuhai"-playful, often unbalanced or with a hole sake cups designed to prevent drinkers from setting them down. These cups are part of Kochi's legendary "Okyaku culture", which is communal drinking parties where laughter, toasts and storytelling flow as freely as the sake itself.

Through brewery visits and tasting experiences, travelers can do more than drink-they can engage, learn, and savor the deep cultural narrative behind each bottle.

Why Kochi?

Kochi is about discovering stories, meeting makers, and experiencing everyday life that still beats to a traditional rhythm. Whether you're exploring mountain towns shaped by architecture, dancing in the streets, or sipping sake with locals, Kochi offers something rare: authenticity without the crowd.

Why don't you come to Kochi as your next destination in Japan?

For more informationVISIT KOCHI JAPAN [https://visitkochijapan.com/en/]
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