Kochi is a charming coastal city on the island of Shikoku, offering a perfect blend of historical depth and laid-back local flavor. Just a short ride from the cruise port, you’ll arrive at Kochi Castle, one of the few original Japanese castles with its wooden interior still intact. From the top, enjoy panoramic views and explore the surrounding grounds rich in Edo-period atmosphere.

Nearby is Hirome Market, a vibrant indoor food hall filled with local specialties like katsuo no tataki (lightly seared bonito), yuzu-flavored dishes, and Kochi’s famously friendly locals. It’s the perfect place to grab lunch or try a sake tasting.

If you’re visiting on a Sunday, you’re in luck—Kochi’s Sunday Market is one of the oldest and largest in Japan, stretching over a kilometer with 300+ stalls selling everything from produce to crafts. For a slower-paced stop, Harimayabashi Bridge is a small but symbolic site tied to a local love story, and the Botanical Garden nearby offers peaceful views and tropical flora.

Kochi is ideal for travelers seeking authenticity, history, and incredible food—all within easy reach from the port.