Hirome Market, not far from Kochi Castle, is one of the lively must-visit spots when traveling in Kochi. The market isn’t very large, and it gets packed during mealtimes. Seating feels a bit tight, and it can be pretty noisy.
That said, it has a great local atmosphere. You can try Kochi specialties and experience the warm, easygoing dining culture of the locals. Even though the setting is quite bustling, it’s still worth visiting once to get a feel for Kochi’s unique charm.
Hirome Market | Review by 王小鈞
Other Reviews by 王小鈞
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Myojinmaru Main Branch
Myojinmaru Main Branch is an izakaya operated by Myojin Suisan, a company with the highest bonito catch in Japan. It is within walking distance of JR Kochi Station and Tosaden Horitsume Station. The restaurant serves Kochi local cuisine and bonito dishes.
When visiting Kochi, you have to try the local specialty: straw-seared bonito tataki with salt. After being seared over high heat with straw, it has a distinctive aroma. The outside is lightly cooked while the inside stays half-raw, giving it a really unique texture.
It tasted a bit different from what I had imagined, but with the salt, it had its own nice flavor. Overall, it was acceptable. When you’re in the area, the local specialties are definitely worth trying for yourself and make for a memorable food experience during the trip. -
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Katsurahama
Welcome to the sprawling coast of Kochi City’s Urado Penninsula between Cape Ryuzu and Cape Ryuo, lush with a beautiful pine forest, sandy beach and sea. This spot in Kochi Prefecture is especially popular for its bronze statue of Ryoma Sakamoto, a prominent historical figure during the end of Japan’s Edo period.
Katsurahama Park is located south of Kochi City and is a fantastic spot for enjoying beautiful views of the Pacific Ocean. Strolling along the shore while listening to the waves crash against the rocks is incredibly relaxing, with the wide-open ocean stretching out before you.
Not only is the scenery beautiful, but you can also feel Kochi’s unique natural charm. It’s one of the must-visit spots when traveling to Kochi. Watching the sunset by the sea is especially unforgettable. -
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Botchan Karakuri Clock
To commemorate the 100th anniversary of the construction of Dogo Onsen Honkan (main building), this mechanical clock was built in 1994 at the Hojoen Garden, located in front of the Dogo Onsen tram station. From 8 am to 10 pm, every hour (and every 30 minutes on weekends, holidays, during the months of March, April, August, and November, during Golden Week, and over New Year's), the clock performs to its music, giving a vibrant welcome to those visiting Dogo Onsen.
The Botchan Karakuri Clock is one of the classic must-see spots when visiting Dogo Onsen. Its exterior has a charming retro Japanese feel, making it perfect for photos.
At the top of each hour, the clock plays music to mark the time, along with a delicate puppet performance that draws plenty of visitors to stop and watch. It has a different charm during the day and at night, and it’s a delightful little surprise you won’t want to miss while soaking in the atmosphere of the hot spring town. -
