Autumn Leaves and Family Laughter in Kochi: A Perfect Shore Excursion
Autumn Leaves and Family Laughter in Kochi: A Perfect Shore Excursion
A happy autumn day in east Kochi with a lovely family from Brunei. From their message, I designed a custom route: Monet’s Garden in Kitagawa, an old-style local fish shop in Aki, and a peaceful walk at Chikurinji Temple with its five-story pagoda and autumn leaves.
Terao Sengyo-ten: An Old-Style Fish Shop in Aki
We began our journey in Aki city, visiting Terao Sengyo-ten, a traditional fish shop that has served the local community for generations. This authentic spot offers a glimpse into how Japanese coastal towns maintain their fishing traditions.
The shop displays fresh catches from local waters, including fish that are essential ingredients for Kochi’s famous inaka-zushi (countryside sushi).
Kochi’s Inaka-Zushi: Countryside Sushi Tradition
Unlike Tokyo-style raw fish sushi, Kochi’s inaka-zushi features vegetables and cooked ingredients. This unique style developed in mountain villages where fresh seafood was scarce, using preserved fish, bamboo shoots, and seasonal mountain vegetables.
The colorful presentation and distinctive flavors reflect Kochi’s resourceful culinary heritage, turning locally available ingredients into beautiful, delicious creations.
Meeting warm local characters who shared stories about their traditions gave our guests an authentic glimpse into Kochi’s food culture and community life.
Monet’s Garden Marmottan: A Piece of France in Kochi
From Aki, we traveled to Kitagawa village to visit Monet’s Garden Marmottan, the only garden outside France officially recognized as reproducing Claude Monet’s gardens in Giverny.
The garden features three distinct areas: the Water Garden with its iconic pond and Japanese bridge, the Flower Garden bursting with seasonal blooms, and the Bordigera Garden showcasing Mediterranean plants.
During autumn, the garden transforms with golden and bronze foliage reflecting in the tranquil ponds, creating scenes reminiscent of Monet’s famous impressionist paintings.
Accessible Gardens for All Visitors
One wonderful aspect of Monet’s Garden is its accessibility. The well-maintained pathways allowed our family members with different mobility needs to comfortably explore together, making it an ideal destination for multi-generational travel.
We discovered yuzu citrus trees heavy with bright yellow fruit, a signature ingredient throughout Kochi prefecture.
Chikurinji Temple: Autumn Colors and Ancient Spirituality
Our final destination was Chikurinji Temple, perched on Mount Godai with stunning views of Kochi city. This ancient temple, founded in the 8th century, is Temple #31 on Shikoku’s famous 88-temple pilgrimage route.
The temple gardens burst with brilliant red, orange, and yellow maple leaves during autumn, creating one of Kochi’s most photographed seasonal scenes.
The iconic five-story pagoda, framed by brilliant autumn foliage, provided the perfect backdrop for family photos and peaceful contemplation.
Walking through the temple grounds feels like stepping into a classical Japanese painting, with carefully composed views at every turn.
The main temple hall, adorned with vibrant prayer banners, welcomes visitors and pilgrims who have traveled the ancient Shikoku route for over 1,200 years.
Family Joy and Lasting Memories
What I remember most is the energy of the mother. She was joking, smiling, and enjoying every moment with her daughter and son-in-law. Watching the three of them laugh together, I thought, “I want to grow older like her someday” – surrounded by family, making gentle jokes, and still curious about the world. It felt very special to share this small autumn story in Kochi with them.
Perfect for Cruise Ship Passengers
Arriving in Kochi by cruise ship? This autumn tour is designed with cruise passengers in mind. We’ll pick you up directly from the Kochi cruise terminal and ensure you’re back to your ship with plenty of time to spare.
Flexible timing options:
- ⏰ 4-hour express tour (perfect for short port calls)
- ⏰ 6-hour highlights tour (our most popular option)
- ⏰ 8-hour comprehensive experience
All tours include comfortable private transportation, wheelchair accessibility when needed, and a guarantee to return you to the port on time.
Experience Eastern Kochi on Our Seasonal Tour
This custom shore excursion combines Kochi’s eastern region highlights with authentic cultural experiences. From traditional fish shops and countryside sushi to impressionist gardens and historic temples, discover the hidden gems of Kochi prefecture.
- Visit authentic local fish shops in Aki city
- Taste traditional Kochi inaka-zushi (countryside sushi)
- Explore Monet’s Garden Marmottan in Kitagawa
- Experience spectacular autumn colors at Chikurinji Temple
- Accessible options for all mobility levels
- Private transportation with English-speaking guide