Cape Muroto & Mikurodo Cave
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Port
Kochi, Japan
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Activity Level
Moderate
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Excursion Type
All
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Wheelchair Accessible
No
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Starting At
$229
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Minimum Age
Information Not Currently Available
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Duration
Approximately 8½ Hours
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Meals Included
Meals included
Explore Murotomisaki (Cape Muroto) and Kochi’s unspoiled environs with a panoramic drive 53 miles outside of Kochi. In the eastern part of Kochi Prefecture, the cape juts into the Pacific Ocean, separating the Kii Channel from Tosa Bay. Its name means “blessed with great nature,” and it is one of eight “Fine Views” in Japan. Even in winter, lush subtropical plants, trees and hibiscus flowers blanket the ground here, and some of the unusual species of trees are considered Natural Monuments of Japan.
At the tip of the cape, you’ll find a pretty white lighthouse that can be seen from 35 miles offshore. In operation for more than 100 years, it is the largest headlight in Japan and has guided countless ships safely through these waters. From here, enjoy a walk along the one-mile stretch of the Ransho Promenade, where unusual cliffs and reefs were created by the relentlessly pounding Pacific Ocean. You might be lucky enough to glimpse local dolphins or migrating sperm whales.
Not far from the cape is the Mikurodo Cave, thought to have been where the 8th-century Buddhist monk Kobo-Daishi attained spiritual enlightenment.
A local restaurant serves up a traditional Japanese lunch.
Climb the sloping trail to the Hotsumisakiji Temple. Founded by Daishi in AD 807, Hotsumisakiji is the 24th temple of the 88 temples of Shikoku Pilgrimage. Its marble statues of Nyoirin Kannon, Gakkō, and Yakushi are National Treasures.
Return to the pier by motorcoach.
Notes:
Wear sturdy non-skid walking shoes. Not advisable for guests with mobility limitations. Tour operates subject to meeting a minimum number of participants.