Nishijima Horticultural Park | Review by 黃國棟

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Nishijima Horticultural Park

Beautiful fruit and flowers await you in warm Kochi.

11 Nov 2026 See More

While visiting Kochi in Shikoku, I made a special trip to walk around Nishijima Horticultural Park, and it was even more beautiful than I imagined! As soon as I entered the park, I was drawn in by all the flowers and greenery. The various plants are very well cared for, and the surroundings feel very pleasant, making it hard not to look around and take photos everywhere.

What I was looking forward to most this time was the strawberry-picking experience! Seeing all the bright red, plump, beautiful strawberries hanging from the vines was so soothing! I couldn’t wait to pick them and have a taste. The freshly picked strawberries were very fragrant, sweet, and delicious. Picking the fruit myself felt especially fun and added a little extra enjoyment to the trip.

Besides the lovely strawberries, the flowers and plants throughout the park are also worth taking the time to appreciate. The whole place is filled with floral scents and greenery, making it very relaxing to stroll around.

Other Reviews by 黃國棟

The Sakamoto Ryoma Memorial Museum

Sakamoto Ryoma is a local patriot who had a large hand in reinstating imperial rule via the Meiji government, as well as mediating the Satsuma-Choshu alliance during the Bakumatsu period, the end of the feudal shogunate era. At this memorial hall the rich history and life works of Sakamoto Ryoma towards the end of the Bakumatsu era can be experience through all the thrills of sound and animation.
- Kochi
- Museums
11 Nov 2026 See More

When visiting Kochi, of course you have to learn about Kochi's most iconic historical figure—Sakamoto Ryoma! The museum is located on a hill near Katsurahama Park, and I heard this area is also the site of the former Urado Castle. The location alone is full of history.

Inside, you can see many valuable historical materials, documents, and exhibits introducing Sakamoto Ryoma's life and the important things he accomplished during the final years of the Tokugawa shogunate. I originally thought a history museum might be a little dull, but it was actually quite interesting! The different exhibits let you gradually learn about Sakamoto Ryoma and also gave me a better understanding of that period in Japanese history.

I actually didn't know much about Sakamoto Ryoma before coming here, but after visiting, I could better appreciate how important he is to the people of Kochi. If you're planning an independent trip to Kochi, this place is well worth stopping by. I recommend visiting Katsurahama Park, Katsurahama Aquarium, and The Sakamoto Ryoma Memorial Museum on the same day. The attractions aren't far apart, so it's a convenient itinerary that lets you experience Kochi's history, ocean views, and relaxed atmosphere all at once.
Kachu Furusato-kan

A dining spot inside “Kachu Furusato-kan” in eastern Kochi Prefecture. Loved as a place where local residents and tourists can connect. It has also ranked highly in popular restaurant rankings in Kochi Prefecture, giving it strong local recognition.
- Kochi
- Japanese Cuisine
11 Nov 2026 See More

During this trip to Kochi, when I went to see the Nora Clock, I specifically asked a local Japanese person if there were any nearby restaurants they would recommend. To my surprise, they recommended Kachu Furusato-kan.

Since it was recommended by a local, of course I had to try it! This restaurant is known for using local Kochi ingredients, especially dishes made with dried sardines. I ordered their signature freshly fried dried sardine rice bowl. When it arrived, the rice was covered with lots of tiny dried fish and topped with grated daikon and shiso leaves. It looked simple and refreshing.

This was my first time trying this combination. The dried fish had a natural savory flavor, and together with the grated daikon and shiso leaves, it tasted light and wasn't greasy. It was even more delicious than I expected!

The set also came with side dishes, pickles, tea, and soup. Everything went together very well, and the meal was quite satisfying. I had originally only planned to visit the Nora Clock, but thanks to an enthusiastic recommendation from a local, I unexpectedly got to enjoy such good local food.
OMO7 Kochi by Hoshino Resorts

OMO7 Kochi by Hoshino Resorts is a new kind of “city-center” hotel located in the heart of Kochi City, Kochi Prefecture. It is conveniently located Approx. 5 minutes by car from JR Kochi Station. A streetcar stop is also Approx. a 4-minute walk from the hotel, making it easy to get around.
- Kochi
- Hotels
11 Nov 2026 See More

A unique hotel where you can enjoy a Yosakoi Festival stage performance 365 days a year! On this trip to Kochi, I specifically arranged to stay at OMO7 Kochi by Hoshino Resorts, and after checking in, I really felt that I had made the right choice!

As soon as I walked into the hotel, I noticed a light, pleasant fragrance. The entire space felt very relaxing and made me want to fully enjoy my stay here.

What impressed me most was the hotel staff. Everyone was extremely friendly and welcoming, always smiling and making me feel at ease without any sense of distance.

The hotel also has a very refined design, and the guest rooms are stylish and elegant. You can enjoy views of downtown Kochi from the room, and the view is quite nice. Looking out at the city during the day is another small pleasure while traveling.

Another thing that makes this place special is that you can experience a stage performance of Kochi's traditional Yosakoi Festival 365 days a year. Even if you aren't visiting during the festival, you still have a chance to experience Kochi's lively and energetic festival culture. It's truly unique! The hotel is about a 20-minute walk from Kochi Station, and it's also fairly convenient for getting to downtown and nearby attractions.

Overall, from the fragrance when I first walked in and the friendly service to the comfortable accommodations, every detail made the stay even better. It's really nice to find a hotel where you can feel comfortable and happy while traveling! I really enjoyed my stay in Kochi this time.