Kochi Prefecture is renowned for its stunning natural beauty facing the Pacific Ocean and the historical relics of famous figures. The area is dotted with numerous unique tourist attractions, brimming with charm.
For those eager to capture picturesque scenery, Niko Falls and Monet's Garden are perfect choices! To admire the majestic landscapes of Kochi Prefecture, Muroto Cape and Nakatsu Valley are highly recommended.
Niko Falls
Niko Falls, located in the dreamy waterfall basin upstream of the Niyodo River, is one of Kochi Prefecture’s famous attractions. Legend has it that a giant serpent, an incarnation of the water god, resides here, making it a sacred site for locals. The allure of this spot lies in its ability to display a variety of colors depending on the angle and intensity of the light. Its mysterious blue hue has gained widespread attention and earned it the nickname “Niyodo Blue.”
On clear days, the sun shines vertically at noon, allowing you to witness the most stunning blue. The path to Niko Falls is also filled with natural beauty, making you feel as if you’re embarking on an adventure.
- Niko Falls (にこ淵)
- Address: 1278 Shimizu Kamibun, Ino-cho, Agawa-gun, Kochi Prefecture
- Access: From JR Dosan Line Ino Station, take the Kenchokita Bus to the Hoden Entrance stop, then walk for about 20 minutes.
Nakatsu Valley
Nakatsu Valley is a vibrant destination where you can experience the beauty of the valley through all four seasons. The autumn foliage season is particularly stunning, offering breathtaking views of fiery red leaves. The area is home to numerous viewpoints, including Maple Falls, Rain Dragon Falls, and Dragon Palace Falls.
A 1.6-kilometer promenade allows you to leisurely stroll while enjoying diverse scenery. The harmony between natural formations and the vivid colors of the trees is awe-inspiring!
In mid-November, the Autumn Leaf Festival is held to coincide with the peak viewing period.
- Nakatsu Valley (中津渓谷)
- Address: Nanogawa, Niyodogawa-cho, Agawa-gun, Kochi Prefecture
- Access: From JR Dosan Line Sakawa Station, take the Kuroiwa Kanko Bus to Nanakawa Station, then walk for about 10 minutes.
Shimanto River
Shimanto River is Japan’s last pristine river and a symbol of Kochi Prefecture. Stretching 196 kilometers with a basin area of 2,186 square kilometers, it is the longest river in Shikoku. Its gentle flow and sparkling emerald-green waters are its defining features.
In summer, enjoy blue skies and white clouds, while autumn brings vibrant foliage, making it an ideal spot to experience nature with all your senses! The area also offers plenty of family-friendly activities.
Don’t miss the seasonal summer tradition of “fire fishing” and the “sunken bridges,” which symbolize the coexistence of nature and humanity!
- Shimanto River (四万十川)
- Address: Nakamura, Shimanto City, Kochi Prefecture
- Access: Approximately 45 minutes by car from JR Dosan Line Susaki Station
Yoshinotsume Terraced Fields
In central Kochi Prefecture lies a hidden gem of terraced fields with a 600-year history, preserving rustic pastoral scenery amidst surrounding mountains. From the observation deck, the layered terraces unfold in a breathtaking panorama, resembling a village suspended in the clouds.
Four giant terraced canvases transform annually with patterns like zodiac themes, with July’s lush green rice fields being the best time to visit, brimming with vitality.
As day turns to dusk, Yoshinotsume Terraced Fields reveal entirely different vistas—especially at dawn when morning mist cloaks the terraces in a dreamy veil, a golden moment beloved by photographers.
- Yoshinotsume Terraced Fields (吉延の棚田)
- Address: Yoshinotsume, Motoyama-cho, Nagaoka-gun, Kochi Prefecture
- Access: 20 minutes from Kochi Expressway Otoyo IC
Ashizuri Cape
Located within Ashizuri-Uwakai National Park, Ashizuri Cape offers a spectacular cliffside coastal landscape. At the tip of the cape stands an 18-meter-high white lighthouse, contrasting strikingly with the deep blue Pacific Ocean, creating a stunning coastal scene.
Strolling along the walking paths around the cape, you can enjoy panoramic views of the vast Pacific. From the observation deck, the rugged cliffs shaped by the Kuroshio Current’s waves are within arm’s reach, exuding grandeur.
Not only is this an ideal spot for sunrise viewing, but taking a sightseeing boat tour is also a highly recommended experience.
- Ashizuri Cape (足摺岬)
- Address: Ashizurimisaki, Tosashimizu City, Kochi Prefecture
- Access: From Tosa Kuroshio Railway Nakamura Station or Sukumo Line Nakamura Station, take the Kochi Seinan Bus to Ashizuri Cape Bus Stop, then walk to the destination.
Kashiwajima Island
Kashiwajima Island, with a circumference of about 4 kilometers, is connected to the mainland by two bridges and is famous for its crystal-clear waters, creating an enchanting illusion of boats floating above the surface.
The island offers a variety of water activities, such as snorkeling and glass-bottom boat tours, making it ideal for families and group trips. With over 1,000 species of fish inhabiting the waters, diving in reveals a tropical paradise.
Driving along Prefectural Route 43 offers panoramic views of the emerald sea, providing a refreshing and scenic journey.
- Kashiwajima Island (柏島)
- Address: Kashiwajima, Otsuki-cho, Hata-gun, Kochi Prefecture
- Access: Approximately 40 minutes from Tosa Kuroshio Railway Sukumo Station
Muroto Cape
Extending into the Pacific Ocean, Muroto Cape is one of Kochi Prefecture’s most iconic scenic spots. Featuring unique rock formations and subtropical forests, it was designated a national park in June 1964 and added to the UNESCO Global Geoparks list in September 2011.
A popular proposal spot among couples, the romantic scenery of the white lighthouse against the vast Pacific is mesmerizing, especially at dusk when the sunset glows like fine wine.
The Muroto Skyline road leading to the lighthouse is an excellent scenic route, offering panoramic views of the cape along the way.
- Muroto Cape (室戸岬)
- Address: Murotomisaki-cho, Muroto City, Kochi Prefecture
- Access: From Tosa Kuroshio Railway Nahari Station, take the Kochi Tobu Kotsu Bus to Muroto Geopark Center or Koura Station. From Muroto Cape Bus Stop, walk to the destination.
Monet’s Garden
Monet’s Garden is a perfect replica of the garden at the home of French Impressionist painter Claude Monet. Spanning 30,000 square meters, the park is home to approximately 100,000 flowering plants, showcasing vibrant seasonal displays throughout the year.
The water lily season from late June to late October is the most popular among visitors. The park’s three themed gardens highlight Monet’s favorite flowers and his travel experiences.
Beyond flower viewing, the park offers gardening workshops, photography contests, and other engaging activities, allowing visitors to experience the charm of horticulture through the changing seasons.
- Monet’s Garden (モネの庭)
- Address: 1100 Notomo-ko, Kitagawa-mura, Aki-gun, Kochi Prefecture
- Hours: 9:00–17:00 (last entry 16:30)
- Access: From Tosa Kuroshio Railway Nahari Station, take the Kitagawa Village Municipal Bus toward Kuki/Takayashiki, and get off at “Monet’s Garden” Bus Stop, then walk to the destination.
Strange Rock Park
The Tatsukushi Coast is home to a group of peculiar rock formations formed about 17 million years ago, sculpted into unique shapes by prolonged wave erosion.
The most iconic rock layers are named, such as “Otake and Kotake,” resembling a straight bamboo grove, and “Love Rock,” shaped like an embracing couple. Visitors can stroll along the coastal path to admire these diverse rock landscapes, with Japan’s largest coral colony, designated a natural monument, being a must-see.
While Tatsukushi Beach can be explored on foot, a glass-bottom boat tour with professional narration is recommended for visiting the nearby Mino Beach.
- Strange Rock Park (奇岩パーク)
- Address: Misaki, Tosashimizu City, Kochi Prefecture
- Access: From Tosa Kuroshio Railway Nakamura Station, take the Kochi Seinan Kotsu Bus to Tatsukushi Bus Stop, then walk for about 10 minutes.
Daruma Sunset
The “Daruma Sunset,” a unique winter phenomenon in the Sukumo area, is a special optical effect caused by temperature differences over the sea.
From mid-November to February, on clear evenings, a circular double sunset appears over the sea for about three minutes, resembling a Daruma doll, hence its name.
This rare spectacle is included in the “Top 100 Sunsets of Japan.” The vibrant red sunset against the vast sea creates a magnificent scene. Local legend says witnessing it brings good luck, adding to the mystique of this natural wonder.
- Daruma Sunset (だるま夕日)
- Address: Oshima, Sukumo City, Kochi Prefecture (Kanyo Island Park)
- Hours: Sunset hours from mid-November to mid-February
- Access: Approximately 10 minutes by car from Tosa Kuroshio Railway Sukumo Station
