Kochi Prefecture occupies the southern face of Shikoku island, where the Pacific Ocean meets rugged mountain wilderness. The capital city of Kochi preserves one of Japan's twelve original feudal castles while serving as the birthplace of Sakamoto Ryoma, the revolutionary who helped end the samurai era. Kochi's remote geography has kept its culture fiercely independent and its natural landscapes largely unspoiled, from the crystal-clear Shimanto River to the dramatic sea cliffs of Cape Ashizuri.
Best souvenirs
Authentic items worth bringing home.
Katsuobushi (dried bonito flakes) — Kochi produces Japan's finest; vacuum-packed for travel at Obiyamachi shops
Tosa washi paper products (Ino Town) — notebooks, postcards, handmade lamp shades
Tosa sake (nihonshu) — miniature bottles at 300ml–720ml; Tosa Sake Selection shop has all 20 local breweries
Yuzu and sudachi citrus products — jams, ponzu, dried peel, citrus chocolates
Sakamoto Ryoma memorabilia — figurines, books, phone cases
Tosa coral jewelry — Kochi is Japan's largest producer of red coral from the Pacific
Tosa shamo fighting cock merchandise (pottery figurines)
Traditional markets
Where locals shop and travellers find treasures.
Sunday Kochi Yoichi Market
Where: Otesuji Street
Hours: Every Sunday 8:00–15:00
Hirome Market
Where: Obiyamachi
Hours: Daily 8:00–23:00