Discover Kochi on a our trip from Matsuyama! Savor local food and sake at Hirome Market, visit Katsurahama Aquarium and Ryoma Statue, and end with Kochi’s famous ice cream.
- From Matsuyama to Kochi by Bus!
- Kochi’s Must-Visit Spot: Hirome Market 🍻
- A Hidden Gem Next Door: Otepia Kochi Library’s Science Museum 🔭
- Dive Into Kochi’s Flavors at a Local Izakaya 🍶
- Katsurahama Aquarium – Wholesome and Heartwarming 🐟
- The Iconic Sakamoto Ryoma Statue and Katsurahama🌊
- Ending on a Sweet Note with Kochi’s Ice Cream 🍦
- Kochi – Perfect for Girls’ Trips, Solo Travel, or Family Adventures
From Matsuyama to Kochi by Bus!
From Matsuyama Station, we hopped on a highway bus for just under four hours. As the scenery of Shikoku’s mountains and rivers unfolded outside the window, our chatter didn’t stop—“It feels closer than I thought!” The excitement of a girls’ trip made the ride fly by before we even arrived!
The bus itself was surprisingly comfortable, with spacious seats and curtains between rows for privacy. Since we had left early in the morning, we quickly dozed off and before we knew it, we had arrived in Kochi.
Kochi’s Must-Visit Spot: Hirome Market 🍻
The first stop in Kochi City was, of course, Hirome Market. The vibrant atmosphere felt like a food stall village, and our table quickly filled with Kochi’s famous local dishes.
We started with the legendary katsuo no tataki (seared bonito). Trying both the salt and soy-sauce versions, each had its own charm, enhanced by the smoky flavor from straw fire grilling.
Next came steaming hot nabe-yaki ramen served in a clay pot. The bubbling broth and thin noodles had us saying, “This is addictive!”—especially with the refreshing kick of yuzu as a topping.
We toasted with local sake and citrusy yuzu sours while nibbling on crispy seaweed tempura. The conversation kept flowing, just like the drinks.
Bite-sized Kochi gyoza disappeared as fast as they arrived,
and we finished with a satisfying roll of Tosa maki, filled generously with katsuo.
What makes Hirome Market even more fun is the free-seating style. Locals and travelers naturally share tables, sparking spontaneous conversations. With over 60 vendors, even choosing what to eat becomes part of the adventure.
A Hidden Gem Next Door: Otepia Kochi Library’s Science Museum 🔭
After feasting at Hirome Market, we walked just next door to Otepia Kochi Library. On the upper floors, the science museum surprised us with a modern planetarium and hands-on exhibits that brought out our inner kids.
The starry sky theater was stunning—its visuals were so immersive that it felt like a moment of true relaxation in the middle of sightseeing. With its calm atmosphere, it turned out to be the perfect place to refresh after a big meal.
Dive Into Kochi’s Flavors at a Local Izakaya 🍶
By evening, we headed into town for a night at a local izakaya. This was where Kochi revealed its deeper culinary secrets.
We began with a sake tasting set, ranging from dry and crisp to fruity and smooth—each brand carried its own unique character. Then came dorome, a small, slippery white fish you rarely find outside Kochi. Its chewy texture made it a perfect sake companion.
Next up were Kochi’s signature delicacies: shutō (fermented bonito guts with a rich umami punch) and chanbara-gai (tiny sea snails bursting with briny flavor). For meat lovers, the beef tataki—grilled to perfection—was unforgettable, with a juicy savor distinct from katsuo.
The izakaya buzzed with locals, who were quick to chat with us, making us feel instantly welcomed. It wasn’t just about eating; it felt like stepping into Kochi’s everyday life.
Katsurahama Aquarium – Wholesome and Heartwarming 🐟
The next day, we visited Katsurahama Aquarium, located right along the scenic seafront of Katsurahama Beach. The aquarium carries a charming retro vibe and a warm, welcoming atmosphere that instantly feels nostalgic. From the moment you step inside, you sense the cozy spirit that explains why this spot has been cherished by locals for generations.
Inside, the first thing that caught our eyes was a large tank filled with goldfish, their elegant swimming mesmerizing both kids and adults alike.
But the highlight? The sea lion feeding experience! Watching them nap lazily was adorable, but when they suddenly waddled up and opened their giant mouths for food, it was absolutely thrilling! We laughed, took photos, and got completely absorbed in the moment.
Penguins, otters, and other popular animals were also so close you could almost touch them—a rare intimacy compared to larger aquariums. The cozy size of the facility made it easy to appreciate every exhibit at leisure.
The entire place had a warm, welcoming atmosphere that made us want to stay for hours. Combined with the nearby ocean views, it became a perfect stop to round out our Kochi trip.
📌 Katsurahama Aquarium Info (Please check the official website for the latest information)
| Item | Details |
|---|---|
| Name | Katsurahama Aquarium |
| Location | 778 Urado, Kochi City, inside Katsurahama Park |
| Access | Approx. 30 min by bus from Kochi Stn. to Katsurahama Bus Stop. |
| Business Hours | 9:00-17:00 |
| Regular closing day | January 1st |
| Admission fee | Adults ¥1,200 / Students ¥600 / Children (3+) ¥400 |
| Official Website | https://katurahama-aq.jp |
The Iconic Sakamoto Ryoma Statue and Katsurahama🌊
No trip to Katsurahama is complete without visiting the Sakamoto Ryoma statue.
Standing tall against the Pacific Ocean, the 5.3m figure (13.5m including the pedestal) was far more impressive in person than expected. As we looked up at his determined gaze, it felt almost as if we were sharing the same view Ryoma once had. The backdrop of the endless blue ocean added an extra layer of awe.
📌 Ryoma Sakamoto Statue Basic Information
| Item | Details |
|---|---|
| Name | Statue of Ryoma Sakamoto |
| Location | Katsurahama Park, Urato, Kochi City, Kochi Prefecture, 781-0262 |
| Access | Approx. 30 min. by bus from Kochi Stn. to Katsurahama Bus Stop. |
| Visiting Hours | Free all day (Outdoor) |
| Admission fee | Free |
| Note | Located on a hill in Katsurahama Park, overlooking the Pacific Ocean |
Ending on a Sweet Note with Kochi’s Ice Cream 🍦
To wrap up the trip, we enjoyed Kochi’s famous ice cream treat, “ice crin“—a sherbet-like dessert with a light, crunchy texture and gentle sweetness. Perfect for the warm weather!
Sold all over the city, it’s an easy, refreshing snack to grab between sightseeing stops.
Kochi – Perfect for Girls’ Trips, Solo Travel, or Family Adventures
Our short getaway from Matsuyama to Kochi was packed with everything—food, culture, and nature.
From feasting at Hirome Market, to savoring rare izakaya dishes, to enjoying close encounters with sea animals, and gazing up at Ryoma’s statue by the Pacific Ocean—it was a journey that had it all.
And finally, with the simple delight of Kochi’s ice cream, the trip ended on the sweetest note.
Even in just two days, Kochi proved itself as a city that leaves you completely satisfied—and eager to come back again.
