This is a private guided tour report by Japan Guide Agency (JGA Inc.), a network of 1,000+ government-licensed, English-speaking local guides across all 47 prefectures of Japan. Not affiliated with the Japan Guide Association.

Tour Itinerary

  • 10:20-11:20 Kochi Castle Museum
  • 11:00-11:30 Stroll around Kochi Castle Otemon area
  • 11:40-12:10 Shopping at Kochi Daimaru
  • 12:15-13:15 Lunch at "Tosa no Kuni Nijuyonmangoku"
  • 13:40-14:40 Stroll around Chikurinji Temple
  • 15:00 Return to port

What Is a Private Guided Tour of Kochi Like? A Licensed Guide's Report

On this tour under the blazing sun, some of the guests found it physically difficult to walk for long periods or to go up and down stairs, but thanks to the vehicle, we were able to get around without placing too much of a burden on them. Museums can be hit or miss in terms of interest, but the guests were very engaged and listened closely to my explanations. The interior was cool and not crowded, so we spent our time leisurely, and from the third floor they also enjoyed the views of the castle keep and the Otemon gate. Afterward, I took the guests to take commemorative photos at the statue of Yamauchi Kazutoyo and the Otemon gate. At the guests' request, we went to the basement of a department store to help with shopping. We had lunch at a reserved restaurant nearby, and they were very pleased with the meal. Our final stop was Chikurinji Temple, where they viewed the garden, rang the bell, worshipped at the main hall, and enjoyed the five-story pagoda. Although I had confirmed food allergies by email in advance, I felt I should have asked in more detail about food preferences. Also, since I was not fully aware of the guests' physical condition or walking ability until the day itself, I felt I could have found a more courteous way to ask about this in advance by email. I am very curious about how Kochi appeared to guests who work in the travel industry and are highly experienced travelers.

Hi! I’m Miyako Ogami. Please call me Miya. I was born and raised in Kochi, but I spent most of my life time in Kyoto. I’ve been teaching English to children at home for over 20 years. At the same time, I’ve met many homestay students from abroad as a host family. I enjoyed sharing time with new people and going sightseeing spots in Kyoto. Now I returned to Kochi and started learning a lot about great attractions about my hometown. In my free time, I enjoy running, cooking local food, singing in the chorus and dancing Japanese folk song dance.
In Kochi,I love the warm and mild weather under the sunshine and feel peaceful atmosphere surrounded by beautiful mountains, clear rivers, and the dazzling sea. Kochi’s abundant nature gives us fresh vegetables, fruits, and seafood!
And the people in Kochi is friendly, laid back, funny and energetic which makes you so happy and brisk! I’ll do my best to show you around this amazing land as much as possible!

Jul 18, 2025
L
Lisa M
Wonderful Way to Spend a Day in Kochi!
Tripadvisor review: Kochi Full-Day Private Trip with Government-Licensed Guide
Miyako Ogami…