September - October Shore Excursions in Japan Filling Fast
Upcoming Small-Group Shore Excursions You Can Join
| Date | Group Size (Pax) | Price/Person | Payment Option |
| May 18 2026 (09:30 - 15:30) | 16 | $152 USD | Send Inquiry |
| Jun 11 2026 (09:30 - 15:30) | 16 | $152 USD | Send Inquiry |
| Jun 23 2026 (09:30 - 15:30) | 16 | $152 USD | Send Inquiry |
| Jul 18 2026 (09:30 - 15:30) | 16 | $152 USD | Send Inquiry |
| Jul 29 2026 (09:30 - 15:30) | 16 | $152 USD | Send Inquiry |
| Aug 10 2026 (09:30 - 15:30) | 16 | $152 USD | Send Inquiry |
| Date | Group Size (Pax) | Price/Person | Payment Option |
| May 26 2026 (10:00 - 15:30) | 20 - 25 | $180 USD | Send Inquiry |
| May 30 2026 (10:00 - 16:00) | Flexible | $183 USD | Deposit 70% via Onepay |
| June 20 2026 (10:00 - 15:30) | Flexible | $175 USD | Send Inquiry |
| July 14 2026 (08:00 - 14:00) | 20 - 25 | $180 USD | Send Inquiry |
| July 23 2026 (10:00 - 16:00) | 20 - 25 | $170 USD | Send Inquiry |
| Aug 29 2026 (08:00 - 14:00) | 20 - 25 | $175 USD | Send Inquiry |
| Sep 20 2026 (08:00 - 14:00) | 14 | $171 USD | Send Inquiry |
| Oct 04 2026 (08:00 - 14:00) | Flexible | $204 USD | Deposit 70% via Onepay |
| Date | Group Size (Pax) | Price/Person | Payment Option |
| Sep 30 2026 (09:00 - 15:00) | 6 - 8 | $275 USD | Deposit $100/pax via Onepay |
| Sep 30 2026 (09:00 - 15:00) | 16 - 22 | $185 USD | Deposit $100/pax via Onepay |
| Oct 14 2026 (09:00 - 15:00) | 15 - 22 | $185 USD | Deposit $100/pax via Onepay |
| Date | Group Size (Pax) | Price/Person | Payment Option |
| Sep 27 2026 (10:00 - 16:00) | Small Group | $217 USD | Send Inquiry |
| Date | Group Size (Pax) | Price/Person | Payment Option |
| Nov 16 2026 (08:00 - 14:00) | 14 | $192 USD | Send Inquiry |
| Nov 26 2026 (09:00 - 15:00) | 14 - 16 | $195 USD | Send Inquiry |
| Dec 03 2026 (08:00 - 14:00) | 14 - 16 | $195 USD | Send Inquiry |
Please Note:
- If you’re looking for other dates, simply complete the Inquiry Form below. We’ll promptly send you clear and helpful information via email based on your request.
- The remaining balance for tours with a deposit is due closer to the departure date.
TOUR OVERVIEW
Step into the cultural soul of Kochi on this well-rounded shore excursion that weaves together sacred tradition, feudal history, vibrant local life, and natural beauty. Begin your journey at Chikurin-ji Temple, one of the revered 88 temples of the Shikoku pilgrimage. Enjoy a scenic city drive past the symbolic Harimaya-bashi Bridge before exploring Kochi Castle, one of Japan’s few surviving original castles. Savor local flavors and friendly energy at Hirome Ichiba Market, then end the day at Katsura Hama beach, with panoramic coastal views from Ryuzu-misaki Lookout.
Who This Tour Is For:
- Cruise guests seeking a balanced, full-day cultural experience.
- Travelers interested in temples, castles, and authentic local markets.
- Mature visitors who prefer a steady pace with diverse sightseeing.
- Anyone wishing to explore both the spiritual and scenic sides of Shikoku.
Special Highlights:
- Opportunity to admire Cherry Blossom in Bloom (especially from the end of March to the beginning of April)
FULL INITERARY
Port Departure - Meet Your Guide
Meet your English-speaking guide at Kochi Port. Step aboard a private, air-conditioned coach for a relaxing journey through Kochi’s most meaningful landmarks.
Visit Gotaisan Chikurin-ji Temple
Begin your Kochi shore excursions with a peaceful visit to Chikurin-ji, Temple #31 of the Shikoku 88 Temple Pilgrimage. Set on Mount Godai, the temple is surrounded by tall cedar trees and quiet forest paths. Here, you can admire the elegant five-story pagoda, moss-covered stone lanterns, and tranquil atmosphere. This sacred site offers a gentle introduction to Shikoku’s spiritual heritage and a moment of stillness amidst nature.
Drive-Through Harimaya-bashi Bridge
As you return to the city, pass by the iconic Harimaya-bashi, a small red bridge steeped in local legend. Your guide will share the story of a forbidden love affair between a monk and a merchant's daughter - a tale deeply embedded in Kochi’s folklore.
Explore Kochi Castle
*Cherry Blossom viewing
Next, visit Kochi Castle, one of only twelve original Japanese castles to survive wars, earthquakes, and modernization. Climb the wooden interior (with assistance if needed) to the top floor of the main keep and enjoy sweeping views of the city. Cruisers will have time to learn about the life of feudal lords, explore historical rooms, and appreciate the careful craftsmanship preserved over centuries.
Hirome Ichiba Market – Lunch & Local Discovery
Lively, casual, and full of flavor, Hirome Ichiba is Kochi’s beating heart. You’ll have free time to enjoy lunch from over 60 stalls offering local specialties such as Katsuo no Tataki (seared bonito), gyoza, local beer, and regional sweets.Your guide will recommend favorite dishes if you’d like a little guidance.
Katsura Hama & Ryuzu-misaki Lookout
*This attraction will not be included in the tour for Diamond Princess guests on June 20.
End your tour with a scenic visit to Katsura Hama, a picturesque beach famed for its pine-fringed coast and association with the beloved samurai Sakamoto Ryoma. Stroll along the shore or visit his statue overlooking the Pacific. Then, enjoy a peaceful stop at the Ryuzu-misaki Lookout, where you’ll take in the endless blue horizon - a perfect moment of reflection before returning to port.
Return to Port
Relax on your drive back, with time to reflect on a day that seamlessly combined Kochi’s sacred spaces, living culture, and natural charm.
Note:The order of visits may vary depending on traffic and opening hours to ensure the smoothest experience possible.
Inquire about this tour now with Japan Shore Excursions – Your local experts in unforgettable journeys!
Why should you take this Kochi Castle Tour during cherry blossom season?
Spring Tradition
Cherry blossoms are a cherished symbol in Japanese culture, celebrating the beauty of each passing season.
A Once-a-Year Moment
For just one to two weeks of full blossom each year, travelers are invited to witness the delicate beauty of Japan’s cherry blossoms.
Spring Moments
Enjoy peaceful walks beneath the blossoms and create beautiful memories in Japan’s most graceful season.
Real Guest Moments from Our Kochi Shore Excursions
Captured during our curated shore tours from Kochi port - Comfort, Culture and Connection.
Richard Hayes –
Our tour guide was excellent, gentle, funny, and very organized. The coach was spotless and well air-conditioned, which we appreciated. The pacing of the day was perfect. I especially liked the way history and nature were woven together. Kochi surprised me in the best way.
Karen Whitmore –
The moment we stepped into Chikurin-ji Temple, I felt an instant calm. It was such a serene start to our day. The trees, the pagoda, the silence, it all felt sacred. Later, the energy at Hirome Market was a delightful contrast! This tour gave us both peace and vibrance in one seamless flow.
Vincent Tan –
A special thank-you to Lara, who helped us adjust our booking when our ship changed arrival time. Everything was reorganized smoothly. The tour itself felt like walking through different layers of Kochi’s soul from temples to castles to coastal legends. A true gem.”
Petra Schreiber –
Katsura Hama was postcard-perfect. I stood at the lookout and just listened to the waves while the wind moved through the pines. The itinerary was diverse but gentle, great for travelers who want to experience Japan deeply without feeling rushed. Our guide was calm, respectful, and full of knowledge.
Grace Adams –
Hirome Market was such fun! We tried the seared bonito and some local beer, both excellent. It felt great to mix with locals in such a casual, authentic space. The whole day was light but meaningful, and our guide knew when to talk and when to let us explore on our own. Perfect for our pace
Antonio Delgado –
I had never heard of Kochi before this cruise, but now it’s one of my favorite ports. Kochi Castle was beautifully preserved, and the climb to the top was well worth the views. Our guide made the samurai stories come alive. Also, big thanks to the consultant, Sammy, who helped us find a tour that fit our slower pace perfectly.
Susan Leung –
I appreciated how this tour balanced spiritual heritage, food, history, and seaside beauty. The red Harimaya-bashi bridge was small but charming with a story I won’t forget. The beach at Katsura Hama, with the statue of Sakamoto Ryoma watching over the waves, felt like the perfect closing scene to the day