Recommended Souvenirs Found at Kochi Ryoma Airport – Popular for Its Delicious Seared Bonito!

Kochi Ryoma Airport, located in Nankoku City, Kochi Prefecture, is the only airport in Japan to be nicknamed after a person. Flowing through Kochi is the Shimanto River, known as the last clear stream of Japan, and the region enjoys a warm climate with a variety of local specialties.
This time, let’s take a look at some recommended souvenirs you can find at Kochi Ryoma Airport – the gateway to the skies of Kochi Prefecture.

1. Kanzashi

When it comes to Kochi’s famous confections, many would say this is it! Kanzashi is one of the most popular souvenirs from Kochi. Sold by Kaho Hamako, a confectionery with 60 years of history, this sweet is inspired by the love story of Junshin and Ouma from the Yosakoi folk song.
The gentle flavor of the yuzu-blended bean paste inside the madeleine-like dough has been loved for generations. It’s a delightful treat enjoyed by both children and adults. When you open the package, an adorably shaped kanzashi (hairpin) appears—this is a souvenir you can confidently recommend.

2. Jersey Milk Ice Brûlée

Currently said to be the most popular item at Kochi Ryoma Airport is the Jersey Milk Ice Brûlée from Yukigamine Farm. The Jersey cows at Yukigamine Farm in Tosayamada, Kochi Prefecture, are raised completely free-range, day and night. The crème brûlée made from this milk is famously delicious when paired with the burnt caramel.
Though it's called “Ice Brûlée,” it’s also recommended to thaw it completely and enjoy it as a crème brûlée. This makes a perfect souvenir for those with a sweet tooth—sure to bring a smile.

3. Tosa no Aka Katsuo (Spicy Red Bonito)

When you think of Kochi, bonito immediately comes to mind. Kochi Ryoma Airport has a wide variety of processed bonito products—but if you're unsure which to choose, Tosa no Aka Katsuo is highly recommended.
Bonito simmered in a secret sauce is turned into an oil-flaked product with a slightly spicy and addictive flavor. It’s perfect with rice and hard to stop eating. What’s more, it’s entirely handmade and additive-free. It comes in three varieties: garlic, green seaweed, and yuzu, making it versatile for pizza, pasta, or even snacks. A staple on Kochi tables—definitely take home some Tosa no Aka Katsuo!

4. Straw-Seared Bonito (Warayaki Tataki)

Many visitors to Kochi enjoy the local specialty—seared bonito (tataki). So why not take that flavor home as a souvenir?
Kochi’s seared bonito is especially known for its straw-searing method. The straw gives the skin a rich aroma and brings out the full flavor of the bonito. The tataki from Myojin Suisan Co., Ltd. is made using traditional single-line fishing. The freshly caught bonito is frozen immediately, then seared with straw at high heat. You can take this deliciousness home sealed in freshness—one of the best souvenirs Kochi has to offer.

5. Salt Kenpi (Sweet Potato Sticks)

Sweet potato sticks (imo kenpi) are another must-have souvenir from Kochi. For a unique twist, how about trying Salt Kenpi? Mizuguruma-ya, a long-established maker of imo kenpi, developed Salt Kenpi as a new product. Made with deep ocean water salt from Muroto and less sugar, it took five years to develop. The effort paid off, as Salt Kenpi became a hit souvenir.
Using sweet potatoes from Miyazaki Prefecture, they’re even transported with the soil still on to prevent deterioration. Thanks to the salt, sugar penetrates the potatoes better—giving the surface a crisp texture, while the inside is more moist than regular imo kenpi. This exquisite taste and texture make it perfect as a snack for kids or with tea. One bite, and you’ll understand why it’s so popular.

◎ Summary

Kochi Prefecture, known for its connection to Sakamoto Ryoma, has many more specialties to offer. From bonito-based products to items themed after Ryoma himself, it’s hard to choose just one. This time, we introduced only the most classic and reliable options. If you’re short on time or can’t decide, use this list of recommended souvenirs as your guide!

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Recommended Souvenirs Found at Kochi Ryoma Airport – Popular for Its Delicious Seared Bonito!