Kochi (�‚’m, Kōchi) is the capital of Kochi Prefecture on the southern coast of Shikoku. The city is small and friendly, with a casual atmosphere and a dose of southern flair.

Kochi boasts several attractions of interest to travelers. A well preserved, original hilltop castle from the feudal period marks Kochi's downtown. Nearby on another mountain, Godaisan, pilgrims visit Chikurinji Temple, one of the 88 temples along the Shikoku Pilgrimage. The city is also the proud home of Sakamoto Ryoma, who played a role in realizing the Meiji Restoration. The Sakamoto Ryoma Memorial Museum is located at the beautiful Katsurahama Beach, just south of the city center.