Where to Eat, Stay and Play in Kochi, Japan
Expect delicious seafood, historic sites and a friendly vibe in the port city of Kochi, Japan.
Eat
As you meander through the streets of downtown Kochi on the island of Shikoku, the distinctive aroma of seared bonito (katsuo no tataki) beckons you to feast on the city’s specialty. Thick fillets of the fresh fish, caught in nearby waters, are held over burning rice straw as the fierce fire sears the outside. Sliced like sashimi, the fillet’s rare centre melts in your mouth, enveloped in a smoky flavour. Learn to master the flames and cook your own at Tosa Tataki Dojo near the harbour then enjoy the fish with the clean and crisp local Tosa sake.
Chill
Situated in a quiet neighbourhood just south of Kochi Castle, Jyoseikan is a luxury ryokan inn with a 150-year history. Stay in a traditional tatami room or a Western-style room overlooking the Kagami River or the castle. You don’t have to be a guest to enjoy the indoor and outdoor baths and saunas; spend an hour or two relaxing and finish with a refreshing cup of yuzu tea at the spa café. From Jyoseikan, it’s a 15-minute ride on the retro Tosaden streetcar to the city centre, where you’ll find Mephistopheles, a popular and wonderfully eccentric café that serves local and European fare.
Play
The Shikoku Pilgrimage is a circuit of 88 Buddhist sacred sites that covers some 1200 kilometres around the island. Experience a small part of the trail by visiting Chikurin-ji Temple at the summit of Mount Godai on the eastern side of Kochi. Ascend a long flight of stone steps and be rewarded with the sight of a five-storey pagoda and serene strolling gardens. Clear your mind with a meditation and sutra-copying session or simply sit among the moss-covered stone lanterns and statues in the tranquil setting.
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SEE ALSO: 16 of the Most Beautiful Places in Japan
Image credit: Visit Kochi Japan / Ido Hirotake (Chikurin-ji Temple)