Kochi Highlights Tour with Licensed Local Guide & Premium Minivan (Toyota Alphard)

Kochi Highlights Tour
📍 Kochi 🗣 English ⏱ 6 hours 👥 Up to 6 people

Explore Kochi’s top highlights in one day with a local licensed guide! Visit Kochi Castle, Chikurinji Temple, and Okawasuji Samurai Residence or Makino Botanical Garden, and enjoy local food at Hirome Market. The tour is flexible—we can visit other spots based on your interests.

All photos were taken by me, and I’m happy to take photos of you during the tour and share them afterward as a free souvenir. Perfect for first-time visitors who want a personalized and memorable experience in Kochi.

Itinerary (Approximate times provided as an example)

This itinerary can be customized to meet your needs and preferences. Send me a message with your requests!

08:00 AM
Meeting Point

Kochi New Port, Airport, Kochi Station, or Any Hotel in Kochi City

I offer a convenient door-to-door meet-up service using a luxury Toyota Alphard. I can meet you at any of the following locations: Kochi New Port (Cruise Ship Terminal), Kochi Ryoma Airport (KCZ), JR Kochi Train Station, or any hotel or accommodation within Kochi City. Please inform me of your preferred meet-up location and time in advance. I will be there to welcome you and start our Kochi adventure in comfort.

08:30 AM
Okawasuji Samurai Residence or Makino Botanical Garden

You can choose either of these two spots. During seasons such as summer or winter, when there are fewer flowers, the Okawasuji Samurai Residence is highly recommended. However, please note that the Samurai Residence is closed on Wednesdays—in that case, we will visit the Botanical Garden instead.

The Okawasuji Samurai Residence is a beautifully preserved samurai house from the Edo period, offering a glimpse into the life and architecture of the samurai class. Inside, visitors can see tatami rooms, elegant wooden interiors, and historical artifacts that reflect the lifestyle and aesthetics of Japan’s feudal era.

Located on Mt. Godaisan, the Makino Botanical Garden honors Dr. Tomitaro Makino, known as the father of Japanese botany. This spacious garden features over 3,000 plant species, scenic walking paths, and seasonal flower displays. Visitors can enjoy both nature and science while learning about Dr. Makino’s life and Japan’s rich botanical heritage.

09:30 AM
Kochi Castle

Kochi Castle is one of the few original castles in Japan with its main keep, palace, and gates still intact. Built in the early 17th century, it served as the seat of the Yamauchi lords and offers panoramic views of the city. Walking through its wooden interiors and climbing the stone steps is like stepping back into the time of the samurai.

11:00 AM
Hirome Market

Hirome Market is a lively food court and local hangout where you can sample a wide variety of Kochi’s regional dishes all in one place. From freshly seared katsuo no tataki to local sake and street food, it’s a perfect spot to experience Kochi’s unique food culture. Grab a seat, order from different stalls, and enjoy the festive, communal atmosphere.

12:00 PM
Obiyamachi Shopping Arcade

Obiyamachi is Kochi’s main shopping street—a covered arcade lined with local shops, cafes, and souvenir stores. It’s a great place to find regional products, try Japanese snacks, and enjoy the atmosphere of a traditional downtown shopping district. Perfect for a casual stroll between sightseeing spots.

12:30 PM
Chikurinji Temple

Chikurinji is a peaceful Shingon Buddhist temple located on Mt. Godaisan. It is one of the 88 pilgrimage temples of Shikoku and is known for its beautiful five-story pagoda, tranquil moss garden, and deep spiritual atmosphere. Founded in the 8th century, it offers a glimpse into Japan’s ancient religious traditions and a serene break from the city.

02:00 PM
Ending Point

Kochi New Port, Airport, Kochi Station, or Any Hotel in Kochi City

Inclusions & Exclusions

What’s included
  • ✅ Local English-speaking licensed guide service (Regional license holder)
  • ✅ Door-to-door escort by Toyota Alphard (Luxury Minivan) (Comfortable seating for up to 6 guests)
  • ✅ Hotel meet-up and drop-off (Within Kochi city area)
  • ✅ All vehicle-related expenses (Includes gasoline, expressway tolls, and parking fees)
  • ✅ Complimentary photos taken by your guide (I will capture your memories during the tour and share the data with you)
What’s not included
  • ❌ Admission fees for sightseeing attractions (e.g., Kochi Castle, Makino Botanical Garden, etc.)
  • ❌ Meals and beverages (Lunch, snacks, and drinks during the tour)
  • ❌ Personal expenses (Shopping, souvenirs, and incidental costs)
  • ❌ Personal travel insurance (Please ensure you have your own coverage before the tour)

Tour Important Information

Physical Requirements: This tour involves a moderate amount of walking and stairs. Comfortable walking shoes are highly recommended.

Accessibility: Please be advised that Kochi Castle (interior) and the Okawasuji Samurai Residence (interior) are not wheelchair accessible.

Dietary Needs: Please inform me in advance of any food allergies or dietary restrictions.

Expenses: Meals and entrance fees are not included in the tour price.

Entrance Fees: Please prepare approximately $10 (approx. 1,500 JPY) per person for entrance fees.

Important Note regarding Transportation

My primary service is providing high-quality guiding as a licensed guide. For your comfort and to ensure an efficient itinerary, I provide my private vehicle as a courtesy support.

Please understand the following:

  • This is not a taxi or commercial transportation service.
  • The price difference from the “Walking Tour” option is dedicated solely to covering actual vehicle expenses, including fuel, highway tolls, parking fees, and specialized insurance.
  • For guests who prefer to use only public transportation or taxis, I recommend booking my “Walking Tour” option.
⚠️ Important message from the supplier

I currently offer several tour options, but I can also create a fully customized itinerary based on your interests. In the photo gallery, you’ll find examples of places and experiences I’ve introduced to past guests.

If there’s a specific place you’d like to visit, feel free to reach out.

For cruise ship travelers, most tours are around 6 hours, so I recommend choosing 3 to 4 spots. To make planning easier, I’ve grouped locations into Central, Eastern, and Western Kochi in the gallery—please use that as a reference.

Cancellation Policy

  • Free cancellation: 8 days prior to meeting time
  • ⚠️ 50% Refund: 3 to 7 days prior to meeting time
  • No Refund: Within 2 day(s) prior to meeting time
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