9 Awesome Cultural Experiences in Kochi Cruise Port
- Maria DiCicco
- Oct 16
- 4 min read
Updated: Nov 14
Discover the lush mountain valleys, the caves, the cuisine and the history of Japan's Kochi prefecture on a fun-filled day in Kochi Cruise port.
Below, find 9 cool things to do in Kochi Cruise port for the whole family to enjoy.
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Things to Do Near Kochi Cruise Port
While the Kochi Cruise Terminal offers little within walking distance (there is a brewpub called South Horizon Brewing and that's about it), an easy shuttle bus ride to town can start your adventure!
Many people may opt to take an organized tour like this one to satisfy both transportation and a local guide, and frankly it's not a bad idea!
If you like to go it alone, here's some suggestions for cool cultural experiences and things to do in Kochi Japan's cruise port!
Visit Ryugado Caves
A charming way to start a visit to Kochi, start early and get to the caves to work up a good heart rate in a natural cave setting. Enjoy the shops lining the way into the cave, and a leisurely little escalator to take you up to the cave entrance.
Inside, see the typical cave formations with some interesting photo ops, and expect to burn some calories going up and down the steep stairwells.
If you enjoy visiting caves, this is a great one to visit in Kochi.
See Kochi Castle
Must less crowded than Osaka Castle and others you may run into on your journey around Japan, Kochi Castle is full of history and beautiful structures. Being castled out, I ventured down the hill to Hirome Market instead, but most tours of Kochi will make a stop here.
Shop 'Til You Drop at Hirome Market
The mecca for shopping fiends - plan a few hours here, including lunch.
Indulge in Katsuo Tataki - A Local Specialty
Cooked over straw, the quick-seared bonito (tuna) dish is a local must-try. You can find it at many of the vendors at the Hirome Market food hall.
You'll want to get one plate per person, because I was like a rabid hyena when my mother tried to stick a chopstick in my dish. It's TOO good to share!
If raw-ish fish is not for you, there are a ton of other dining options in the same food court area.
Be sure to scout out a table (I recommend going early) because it's first-come, first-sat and it's all locals that know what's up.
Don't miss this experience!
Enjoy Kochi's Best Cruise Port Activities in One TourThis tour will take you to the Kochi Castle, the Hirome Market to shop and sample their delicious bonito, and more. |
Buy Knives from Kochi (Tosa Knives)
Japanese knives from Kochi are a popular souvenir. The knives are forged with a black, rugged finish called kurouchi, which makes for a really cool looking knife. Tosa knives can be pretty affordable, and you'll find them in shops at the Ryugado caves for sure. We saw many blacksmiths selling their knives right where they make them - a very cool experience easily paired with a cave visit.
Pro tip: pick out your knife before going into the cave and they can personalize it for you by the time you come out of the cave!
Or, make your own knife with a master blacksmith with this full day workshop. Just be sure it lines up with the cruise ship schedule!
Take a Photo at the Harimaya Bridge
A fabled bridge with a story of ill fated love between a monk and a young woman, this is one of those kitschy spots that you just have to visit if you are in the Harimayabashi area.
Browse the Obiyamachi Shotengai Mall
This simple shopping mall is not a must-see, but it's in the downtown area and easy to navigate to if you need some more shopping to fill your day! It's a great place to mingle with the locals and avoid seeing a lot of shipmates from your cruise.
Make Japanese Washi Paper
This Tosa Washi Paper class is about 30 minutes from the Cruise port, but worth the drive through the rice fields and green valley landscapes away from the sea. Learn washi paper making techniques in a hands-on and very unique class!
Check Out Katsura Beach
Visitors will enjoy the peace and tranquility of the beach, which offers walking paths and scenic overlooks.
Overall Impression of One Day in Kochi Cruise Port
I thought Kochi was a great, quiet place to visit in Japan - away from crowds, full of nature and fresh air, and teeming with local life. For people who enjoy shopping, history, and a touch of local culture - this is a perfect cruise port for you!
For More Information
If you are cruising to Kochi, there's a good bet you'll be cruising some of these other ports too, check out my port guides here:
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