Encompassing the majority of the south side of Shikoku, Japan's least traveled to main island, the prefecture of Kochi is filled with an abundance of beautiful countryside and a long coastline. If you're looking to explore a side of Japan that's rarely seen by tourists, the highly underrated region of Kochi is well worth a visit.
Shikoku Karst Natural Park
Often referred to as the 'roof of Shikoku', Shikoku Karst is a mountain plateau that lies along the border of Kochi and Ehime. From the viewing points you'll get stunning vistas over the jagged mountains that stretch over both prefectures. The whole plateau stretches for about 25 kilometers and offers various picturesque walks and hikes nearby.
The spot is also famous for star-gazing, the rural area means little light pollution and at a height of over 1,000 meters night views of the sky are beautiful on cloudless nights.
Kochi Castle
One of just twelve castles in Japan to have survived since its original construction, Kochi Castle was once the residence for the Yamauchi lords who governed the region. Built in the early 15th century, the castle may be small compared to others like Himeji, but makes up for it in beauty.
Check Out the Local Dancing of Yosakoi
Energetic and lively, this unique style of Japanese dancing nowadays is performed all over Japan, but it originated in Kochi and has a special place in the hearts of locals here. Since 1954 the Yosakoi Festival has taken place here every year in August, turning the whole center of the city into a huge dance party. If you can't make it for the festival, you can still experience it at the Kochi Yosakoi Information Exchange Center Museum.
Eat at Hirome Ichiba
The place to go for food and drinks in Kochi City, Hirome Ichiba is full of stalls selling delicious bites to eat, local produce and drinks. Make sure to try some of the famous regional dishes such as bonito tataki and nabeyaki ramen, a chicken broth noodle dish cooked in a cast iron pot.
It's also a great place to go if you're looking to meet local people, during the weekend when it gets busy you'll probably end up sharing tables with strangers.
Kashiwa Island
With some of the clearest and beautifully azure waters in Japan, Kashiwa Island is just as stunning as summer hot spots in Okinawa. The island's waters are home to some beautiful coral reefs and the water is so crystal clear sometimes it looks like boats are floating.
Conclusion
Getting to Shikoku and Kochi is not as simple compared to most popular places in Japan. There is no shinkansen (bullet train) that goes to the island, trains here are much slower. Instead it's recommended to fly there from Haneda to Kochi Ryoma Airport. From there you can rent a car to explore the beautiful rural scenery.