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There are an array of things to do in Japan, with Nankoku sharing quite a few of those!
Nankoku is a hidden gem in the heart of Japan, where the vibrant city life blends harmoniously with the serene natural landscapes.
From the mesmerizing cherry blossom gardens to the bustling street markets, there’s never a dull moment in this city.
Come and join us as we embark on a journey to discover the tantalizing flavors of Nankoku’s culinary scene, explore the hidden temples that whisper tales of ancient history, and experience the warm hospitality of its people.
Get ready to be swept away by the irresistible charm of Nankoku!
Without further ado listed below are some of the most fun things to do in Nankoku:
1. Katsurahama Beach
Katsurahama Beach is a beautiful sandy beach located in Nankoku, Japan. It is surrounded by majestic cliffs and offers stunning panoramic views of the Pacific Ocean.
What to see or do: Visitors can enjoy swimming, sunbathing, and beach sports on the golden sand. The beach also features a natural hot spring footbath where travelers can soak their feet and relax.
The nearby aquarium and the Ryoma Sakamoto Memorial Museum are also worth a visit.
Don’t miss: Don’t miss the breathtaking sunrise and sunset views from the beach. The beach also hosts an impressive fireworks festival in summer which is a must-see attraction.
Insider travel tips: Travelers should make sure to bring plenty of sunscreen, as the beach can get very sunny and hot. It’s also recommended to visit in the early morning or late afternoon to avoid the crowds.
Visitors can also take a scenic cable car ride to the top of the nearby mountain to experience stunning views of the beach and ocean.
2. Ryoma Sakamoto Bronze Statue
The Ryoma Sakamoto Bronze Statue is a famous statue that commemorates the life of Ryoma Sakamoto, a prominent figure in Japanese history.
What to see or do: Visitors can admire the intricate details of the bronze statue, including Sakamoto’s samurai attire and the horse he is riding. The statue is located in a small park in Nankoku City and is surrounded by beautiful cherry blossom trees.
Don’t miss: Don’t miss the opportunity to take a photo with the statue, as it is one of the most iconic landmarks in the city.
The statue is also illuminated at night, providing a stunning view for evening visitors.
Insider travel tips: – The best time to visit the statue is during the cherry blossom season in late March to early April.
3. Kochi Castle
Kochi Castle is a historic Japanese castle located in Nankoku, Kochi Prefecture. It was built in 1603 and is one of the few surviving castles in Japan today.
What to see or do: Visitors can explore the castle’s many levels, including the turrets, main keep, and central courtyard. There are also various exhibits throughout the castle that showcase the history and cultural significance of the structure.
Don’t miss: The view from the top of the main keep is a must-see. From there, visitors can take in panoramic views of the surrounding city and countryside.
Insider travel tips:
4. The Sakamoto Ryoma Memorial Museum
The Sakamoto Ryoma Memorial Museum is a museum dedicated to the life and legacy of Sakamoto Ryoma, a prominent figure in Japan’s history who played a key role in the Meiji Restoration.
What to see or do: Visitors can learn about Sakamoto Ryoma’s life and achievements through various exhibits, including personal belongings, letters, and historical documents.
The museum also features a replica of the room where Ryoma was assassinated, as well as a replica of the ship he used to travel to Kyoto to negotiate a peace treaty between two warring factions.
Don’t miss: One of the highlights of the museum is the 3D hologram of Sakamoto Ryoma that provides a dynamic and interactive experience for visitors.
Insider travel tips: – The museum is located in Nankoku City, which is about an hour’s train ride from Kochi City.
5. Harimayabashi
Harimayabashi is a historic bridge located in Nankoku City, Kochi Prefecture, Japan.
What to see or do: Visitors can walk across the bridge to enjoy scenic views of the Niyodo River below and the surrounding mountains. The bridge is especially beautiful during fall when the leaves change colors.
Don’t miss: Be sure to take plenty of pictures of the exquisite scenery, and keep an eye out for birds such as kingfishers and herons that can be spotted in the river.
Insider travel tips: For the best experience, visit Harimayabashi early in the morning to avoid crowds and enjoy the peaceful atmosphere. It’s also a good idea to wear comfortable shoes as the bridge is quite long.
6. Makino Botanical Garden
Makino Botanical Garden is a picturesque garden located in Nankoku, Japan. It’s named after the famous Japanese botanist, Tomitaro Makino, and features a vast collection of over 3000 plant species.
What to see or do: The garden boasts an array of beautiful flowers, trees, shrubs and other botanical specimens. Take a pleasant stroll on its various walking trails and discover the stunning scenery.
Check out the seasonal blooms like azaleas, lilies, and beautifully arranged hydrangeas.
Don’t miss: A highlight of the garden is the stunning Sakura or cherry blossom trees which provide a fantastic sight in the springtime.
Visitors can also take a tour of the botanical garden’s greenhouse, where they can find an extensive collection of tropical plants and exotic species.
Insider travel tips: Best time to visit is in spring when the Sakura trees are blooming, and in the fall when the maple trees change color.
7. Kagami Shrine
Kagami Shrine is a Shinto shrine located in Nankoku, Japan. It was established in the 4th century and is believed to provide luck in relationships.
What to see or do: Visitors can explore the beautiful grounds of the shrine, including the traditional gate, the main hall, and the sacred tree. There are also various seasonal events and festivals held throughout the year.
Don’t miss: Be sure to check out the shrine’s reflection pond, which perfectly mirrors the surrounding trees and sky. It’s a peaceful spot to take in the beauty of the shrine.
Insider travel tips: Make sure to wear comfortable shoes, as the shrine grounds can involve a fair amount of walking. Additionally, consider visiting during one of the shrine’s festivals to experience traditional music, dance, and delicious food.
8. The Yosakoi Museum
The Yosakoi Museum is a museum dedicated to the Yosakoi Festival, a traditional dance festival that originated in Kochi prefecture.
What to see or do: Inside the museum, visitors can view displays of Yosakoi costumes, instruments, and video presentations of past performances. There are also interactive exhibits where visitors can try on the costumes and learn some of the dance moves.
Don’t miss: The highlight of the museum is the Yosakoi Dance Hall, where visitors can watch live Yosakoi performances by local dance teams.
Insider travel tips: – Plan your visit during the Yosakoi Festival in August for a chance to see the dance in action.
9. Tosa Yamauchi Family Treasury and Archives
The Tosa Yamauchi Family Treasury and Archives is a historical museum and research institute located in Nankoku, Japan.
What to see or do: Visitors can view a range of historical artifacts and documents related to the Yamauchi clan, who were the rulers of the Tosa Domain during the Edo period.
Some notable items include samurai armor, swords, and scrolls.
Don’t miss: Be sure to check out the collection of letters written by Yamauchi Toyonobu, the 13th head of the Yamauchi clan, which provide valuable insights into the inner workings of the Tosa Domain.
Insider travel tips: If you’re interested in history or Japanese culture, this museum is definitely worth a visit. However, note that the exhibits are mostly in Japanese and there may not be English translations available.
It’s also recommended to go early in the day to avoid crowds.
10. Kochi Sunday Market
The Kochi Sunday Market is a vibrant weekly market that takes place in Nankoku, a city in Kochi prefecture in Japan.
What to see or do: Visitors can browse through a wide variety of stalls selling fresh produce, handmade crafts, clothing, and other souvenirs.
There are also plenty of food vendors dishing up local specialties like katsuo no tataki (lightly seared skipjack tuna), yaki-soba (Japanese stir-fried noodles), and onigiri (rice balls).
Don’t miss: Be sure to check out the market’s live music performances and street entertainment, which add to the lively atmosphere. There’s also a section dedicated to antiques and second-hand goods where you might find a unique treasure to take home.
Insider travel tips: – Arrive early in the morning to beat the crowds and get the best selection of fresh produce.
11. Nunakawa Shrine
Nunakawa Shrine is a serene and beautiful Shinto shrine located in Nankoku, Japan.
What to see or do: The shrine is adorned with colorful decorations and intricate wood carvings that showcase the traditional architecture of Japan. Visitors can stroll through the well-manicured grounds and admire the tranquil atmosphere of the shrine.
Don’t miss: Don’t miss the opportunity to witness the annual festival held at the shrine in the month of August. The festival features traditional music, dance performances, and a lively procession of floats decorated with paper lanterns.
Insider travel tips: Make sure to wear comfortable shoes, as the grounds of the shrine can be uneven and hilly. Also, don’t forget to bring a camera to capture the stunning beauty of the shrine and its surrounding nature.
12. Hirome Market
A bustling indoor market located in the city of Nankoku, Japan.
What to see or do: Stroll through the market and sample a variety of fresh seafood, fruits, vegetables, and traditional Japanese snacks. Watch local vendors prepare food, and enjoy the lively atmosphere of the market.
Don’t miss: Trying the famous katsuo no tataki, which is seared bonito fish that is quickly seared over an open flame and sliced into thin pieces.
Insider travel tips: Arrive early to avoid the crowds and grab a bite to eat before the lunch rush. Bring cash, as not all vendors accept credit cards.
And don’t be afraid to haggle with vendors, as bargaining is a common practice in Japanese markets.
13. The Museum of Art Kochi
The Museum of Art Kochi is a contemporary art museum in the city of Nankoku, Japan. The museum features a collection of contemporary paintings, sculptures, and installations.
What to see or do: Visitors can explore the museum’s ever-changing exhibitions and admire the works of both Japanese and international artists. The museum also offers educational opportunities through workshops and lectures.
Don’t miss: Make sure to see the permanent collection featuring works by renowned Japanese artists such as Yayoi Kusama, Kazuo Shiraga, and Shozo Shimamoto.
Insider travel tips: The museum is closed on Mondays and over the New Year holidays.
14. Sekkei-ji Temple
Sekkei-ji is a serene Buddhist temple located in the city of Nankoku, Japan.
What to see or do: Visitors can explore the grounds of the temple and take in the peaceful surroundings. The main hall of the temple is a beautiful wooden structure that houses several Buddha statues.
Don’t miss: One of the highlights of Sekkei-ji is its stunning Japanese garden, which features a pond and a variety of plants and trees.
It’s a great spot to relax and take in the scenery.
Insider travel tips: – Visit during the autumn months to see the vibrant colors of the foliage in the garden.
15. Chikurin-ji Temple
Chikurin-ji Temple is a serene and peaceful Buddhist temple located in Nankoku City, Japan.
What to see or do: Explore the temple grounds, admire the beautiful architecture of the various buildings, and take in the tranquil and calming atmosphere. Visitors can also participate in meditation sessions or attend a special Buddhist ceremony at the temple.
Don’t miss: The temple’s main hall, which houses a magnificent statue of Yakushi Nyorai, the Buddhist god of healing. Another highlight is the picturesque pagoda, which offers stunning views of the surrounding landscape.
Insider travel tips: – The temple can be accessed by car or bus from Kochi City in about 40-50 minutes.