Note: Just my personal take!
① Nature & Weather
Kochi is tucked between the Shikoku Mountains up north and the Pacific Ocean to the south. When you fly in, the view of the sky, mountains, and coastline is absolutely stunning.
Around 84% of the land is covered in forest, making it the most forested prefecture in Japan! With an average annual temperature of 14.9°C (about 58°F) and lots of sunshine (seriously, it’s sunny most days), it’s great for farming and fishing. You’ll find tons of eggplants, ginger, garlic chives, yuzu, and buntan—and don’t forget the famous one-line bonito fishing!
That said, Kochi also gets a lot of rain—about 2,643mm (104 inches) a year—some days feel like tropical storms. But locals totally unfazed.
If you’re into the outdoors or want to live close to nature, this place is a dream. Mountains, rivers, and the sea all within reach.
② Food Culture
Kochi has some seriously unique local eats—like bonito and eel tataki, dorome (baby sardines), noresore (young eel), itadori (wild greens), and country-style sushi. And yes, they go perfectly with a nice glass of local sake.
We’re also famous for citrus fruits like yuzu and bushukan.
Because people here grow up eating fresh rice, veggies, and fish, the locals have amazing taste buds. They really know good food.
③ The People
In the local dialect, there are two famous words:
- “Igossou” for guys = kind of a tough, headstrong man
- “Hachikin” for women = bold, energetic, no-nonsense ladies
Honestly, I haven’t met many truly “stubborn” men, but once you share a drink, most people open up fast and are super friendly. I’ve met a lot of folks who really love Kochi.
As for the ladies, “Hachikin” fits! They’re confident, cheerful, and proactive. Kochi actually has one of the highest rates of female business owners in Japan. I was surprised at how common it is for both parents to work—even in older generations.
In general, people here are warm, down-to-earth, and really proud of their hometown. Oh, and many of them love a good drink—just saying.
If you ever get the chance, come visit and feel the spirit of Kochi for yourself!
