Kochi Castle & Katsurahama Beach
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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
$179.95
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Minimum Age
Information Not Currently Available
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Duration
Approximately 4 Hours
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Meals Included
Meals not included
A comfortable motorcoach is your time machine today -- a portal to an ancient world right in the city's heart.
Kochi Castle, the city's most famed landmark, dominates the view from any vantage point. Built in AD 1600, parts of the massive castle have burned down a few times, and it has undergone several restorations over the years, but it retains its original palace and the integrity of its architectural style. Don't miss the splendid Otemon Gate, remaining as originally constructed. Inside, many of the ancient rooms are closed to visitors, but you will find a small museum filled with cultural artifacts. The main tower provides jaw-dropping views of the whole city, making it well worth the climb to the top.
The beautifully-restored Tsumemon Gate connects the second citadel of the castle to its inner sanctum. Check out the honmaru -- the virtually impregnable ring of defense -- preserved in its original entirety. All of the structures in the honmaru are designated as Japan's Important Cultural Properties and house both local and historical treasures. Back outside, stroll on the castle grounds. This popular public park is dotted with magnificent statues of the Yamanouchi family -- each one material for a photo stop.
The Kochi Castle Museum of History contains the historical documents of the Tosa feudal clan, with 67,000 items, including National Treasures and important cultural items. Displays, pictures and multi-media exhibits tell the story of Kochi.
A 30-minute scenic panoramic drive takes in some of Kochi's popular sights, including the Harimaya Bridge and the Harimayabashi Shopping District, which sports a wooden arcade and a large mechanical clock.
At the shoreline, discover beautiful Katsurahama Beach. Famous for moon-viewing parties, the beach is home to a monument commemorating Sakamoto Ryoma, the founding father of modern Japan. He led a bloodless revolution to transform feudal Japan into a modernized, unified nation. Explore the picturesque beach area (not suitable for swimming) via the pretty walking paths.
At the completion of your day, enjoy a pleasant ride back to Kochi Port and the ship.
Notes:
There are approximately150 stairs at Kochi Castle. You must remove your shoes at Kochi Castle. Harimaya Bridge is currently under construction and may be under cover at the time of your visit. Tour order may vary.