Kochi Castle, Shrine & Hirome Market: Half-Day Guided Tour
Active
4h
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
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Mobile or paper ticket accepted
About this experience
Discover the best of Kochi on a guided half-day walking tour.
・Explore Kochi Castle and the vibrant Hirome Market with a friendly local guide
・Visit Kochi Hachimangu Shrine to experience Japan’s spiritual culture and learn traditional Shinto customs
・Enjoy a well-paced route featuring history, food, and local culture
・Perfect for cruise passengers & first-time visitors – hotel and port pickup available on request
・All entrance fees included for a smooth, worry-free experience
・Taste local flavors with a complimentary citrus juice and Biscuits
・Stroll through the lively Obiyamachi shopping street and soak up the city’s charm
Available options
Kochi Castle, Shrine & Hirome Market: Half-Day Guided Tour
What's included
English-speaking guide (Japanese, Mandarin Chinese, or Taiwanese available upon request)
Admission fee to Kochi Castle
Local snack & drink (Gokkun citrus juice & Mille Biscuits)
Meeting at JR Kochi Station South Exit (free of charge)
Walking tour in Kochi city center
Detailed itinerary
1
One of Kochi’s oldest and most revered Shinto shrines, known for its serene atmosphere and deep cultural roots. Visitors can learn about the history and traditions of the shrine, experience rituals such as praying and drawing omikuji (fortune slips), and practice proper etiquette like hand purification and bowing. Surrounded by tranquil nature, it offers a peaceful and authentic glimpse into Japan’s spiritual culture.
2
Kochi’s central shopping street filled with local stores, souvenirs, and everyday life. On Sundays, this stop may also include a visit to the famous Sunday Market (Nichiyo-ichi), Japan’s largest open-air market.
3
One of Japan’s few original castles that survived from the Edo period. Visitors can explore the well-preserved keep, learn about Kochi’s history with your guide, and enjoy panoramic views of the city from the top.
4
A lively indoor market where locals and travelers gather. Enjoy a wide range of local foods, including the famous seared bonito (“Katsuo no Tataki”), while experiencing Kochi’s food culture.
What's not included
Lunch (at Hirome Market is at your own expense)
Taxi fares for optional spots and pick-up/drop-off at hotels, Kochi Airport, Kochi Port, or Harimayabashi Bus Terminal (if requested).
Personal expenses and souvenirs
Available languages
Guide guide
CMN
JA
EN
Reviews breakdown
Viator
4.3
3 reviews
5★
2
4★
0
3★
1
2★
0
1★
0
Important information
Service animals allowed
Public transportation options are available nearby
Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap
Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries
Not recommended for pregnant travelers
Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Because Kochi Castle has stairs and steep slopes.
Because this tour involves extended walking.
Meeting point
Meeting Point Information
Meet in front of the Statues of the Three Tosa Samurai (Sakamoto Ryoma, Takechi Hanpeita, and Nakaoka Shintaro) at JR Kochi Station South Exit.
In case of rain, please meet inside JR Kochi Station South Exit.
About Kochi
Kochi, often referred to as 'The Water City,' is a charming coastal city in Japan known for its picturesque landscapes, historic sites, and rich cultural heritage. It offers a unique blend of traditional and modern attractions, making it a captivating destination for travelers.
Top Attractions
Kochi Castle
Kochi Castle is a historic castle that offers a glimpse into the city's feudal past. The castle grounds are beautifully landscaped, and the surrounding area is a popular spot for cherry blossom viewing in the spring.
Historical
1-2 hours
¥400
Sakamoto Ryoma Memorial Museum
This museum is dedicated to Sakamoto Ryoma, a prominent figure in Japan's Meiji Restoration. The museum houses a collection of artifacts and exhibits related to Ryoma's life and his contributions to modern Japan.
Historical
1 hour
¥500
Katsurahama Beach
Katsurahama Beach is one of the most famous beaches in Japan, known for its beautiful white sand and clear blue waters. The beach is also home to the Katsurahama-dera temple, a historic Buddhist temple with a scenic garden.
Nature
2-3 hours
Free (temple entrance fee: ¥400)
Hirome Market
Hirome Market is a bustling market where you can find a variety of fresh seafood, local produce, and traditional snacks. The market is a great place to experience the local culture and sample some of Kochi's culinary specialties.
Cultural
1-2 hours
Free to enter (food and souvenirs vary in price)
Must-Try Local Dishes
Katsuo no Tataki
A delicacy made from seared bonito fish, typically served with soy sauce, ginger, and garlic. The fish is briefly seared on the outside while remaining raw on the inside, resulting in a unique texture and flavor.
Main dish
Contains fish
Katsuo no Tekonezushi
A type of sushi made with bonito, rice, and various toppings. The dish is unique to Kochi and is a must-try for seafood lovers.
Main dish
Contains fish and rice
Kochi Ramen
A local variation of ramen with a rich, pork-based broth and thin noodles. The dish is often topped with sliced pork, green onions, and a soft-boiled egg.
Main dish
Contains pork and wheat
Katsuo no Jushi
A traditional snack made from dried bonito flakes. The flakes are pressed into a cake-like shape and can be eaten as is or used as a topping for other dishes.
Snack
Contains fish
Popular Activities
Hiking in Shikoku Karst
Rock climbing in Shikoku Karst
Snorkeling and diving in Muroto Misaki
Beachcombing at Katsurahama Beach
Picnicking in Kochi Castle Park
Tea ceremony in a traditional tea house
Visiting historic temples and shrines
Exploring traditional architecture in Harimayabashi
Best Time to Visit
April to June, September to November
These months offer pleasant weather with moderate temperatures and lower humidity, making it ideal for sightseeing and outdoor activities. The autumn foliage in November is particularly stunning.
15-25°C
59-77°F
Practical Information
Language
- Official: Japanese
- Widely spoken: English (limited)
- English: Limited
Currency
Japanese Yen (JPY)
Time Zone
JST (GMT+9)
Electricity
100VV, 50/60HzHz
Safety Information
Overall Safety Rating: Very safe
Kochi is a very safe city with a low crime rate. Violent crime is rare, and petty crime, such as pickpocketing and bag snatching, is relatively uncommon. However, it's always important to take precautions and be aware of your surroundings, especially in crowded areas and tourist spots.
Important Precautions:
- • Be cautious of your surroundings, especially in crowded areas and tourist spots.
- • Use licensed taxis and agree on the fare before starting your journey.
- • Keep your valuables secure and be aware of pickpockets and bag snatchers.
Getting there
By air
- Kochi Ryoma Airport • 10 km from city center
By train
Kochi Station
By bus
Kochi Station Bus Terminal
Getting around
Public transport
The bus network is the primary mode of public transport in Kochi, with frequent services covering most areas of the city. Buses are affordable and convenient for getting around.
Taxis
Available • Apps: JapanTaxi, DiDi
Rentals
Car, Bike, Scooter
Neighborhoods
Kochi City Center
Katsurahama
Harimayabashi
Day trips
Shikoku Karst
50 km from Kochi • Full day
Shikoku Karst is a stunning limestone plateau known for its unique rock formations and scenic views. The area is a popular spot for hiking, rock climbing, and photography.
Muroto Misaki
60 km from Kochi • Full day
Muroto Misaki is a scenic cape known for its beautiful coastline, clear waters, and unique rock formations. The area is a popular spot for swimming, snorkeling, and diving.
Otoyo
40 km from Kochi • Half day
Otoyo is a charming town known for its traditional architecture, historic temples, and scenic riverside views. The town is a popular spot for cycling, photography, and cultural exploration.
Festivals
Yosakoi Festival • August
Kochi Eko Festival • May
Kochi Winter Festival • February
Pro tips
- Visit Kochi Castle early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid the heat and crowds.
- Try the famous Katsuo no Tataki at Katsuo no Tataki Ichiba, a popular restaurant specializing in this local delicacy.
- Explore the Hirome Market for a taste of Kochi's culinary specialties and local culture.
- Take a day trip to Shikoku Karst for stunning rock formations and scenic views.
- Visit Katsurahama Beach for a relaxing day by the ocean and a chance to see the famous Katsurahama-dera temple.
From $25
per person
Price varies by option
Secure booking
Free cancellation available
Instant confirmation
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