Explore Shimanto in 2 Days: Nature, Local Food & Cycling Adventure
Discover a 2-day trip along Kochi’s Shimanto River and Hata region. Enjoy freshly grilled bonito, photograph iconic sunken bridges, play in the river, and cycle along the scenic riverside.
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The Hata region of Kochi Prefecture is located at the southwestern tip of Shikoku, and is a peninsula that juts out into the Pacific Ocean, facing Tosa Bay to the east and Bungo Channel to the west. It is made up of three cities, two towns, and one village: Hara Village. It is a natural powerhouse rich in blessings, including the nationally famous Shimanto River and Cape Ashizuri, the blessings of the Kuroshio Current that flows along the coast, and the blessings of mountains that boast the largest area of forests in the country.
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Table of Contents
- Shimanto: Shikoku’s Hidden Gem of Clear Streams and Nature
- Day 1: Shimanto Nature, Fresh Bonito & Iconic Sunken Bridges
- End Day 1 with a Unique Local Stay
- Day 2: Cycle Through Scenic Views and Attractions
- Discover More About Shimanto River
Shimanto: Shikoku’s Hidden Gem of Clear Streams and Nature
Shimanto, in western Kochi Prefecture, Shikoku, is known for its rich nature. The Shimanto River—called ‘Japan’s last pure river’—features crystal-clear water, tranquil riverbanks, rural landscapes, mountains, and small fishing villages, offering a peaceful escape from city life.
This article presents a recommended 2-day, 1-night itinerary to enjoy Shimanto’s gourmet food and natural scenery.
Day 1: Shimanto Nature, Fresh Bonito & Iconic Sunken Bridges
Savor freshly grilled bonito at Roadside Station Tosa Saga.
Roadside Station Nabura Tosa Saga is located in Kuroshio Town , which boasts the highest bonito catch in Japan.
The biggest attraction here is the fresh bonito.
The most popular dish is the Salted Seared Set Meal, featuring freshly grilled bonito sprinkled with salt for an aromatic, flavorful experience. Watching the chef grill it live behind the glass adds a unique sensory touch that can’t be replicated online.
Seared bonito hamburger, bonito cutlet hamburger
Our exquisite bonito can be enjoyed not only in rice bowls, but also in other dishes such as seared bonito hamburgers and bonito cutlet hamburgers. Please enjoy the deliciousness of bonito in a variety of ways to suit your tastes.
Snap Photos at Shimanto River’s Iconic Chinkabashi Bridge
A unique sight of Shimanto is the sunken bridge.
Surrounded by clear streams and mountains, the bridge without railings gently stretches out over the river, making it a symbol of the Shimanto River can cross it on foot or by car, and its appeal lies in the opportunity to get up close and personal with the water, the nature along the Kawabe, and the tranquil scenery.
If you go during times when there are fewer people around, you can relax and enjoy the scenery while taking great photos.
Canoeing and River Activities on the Shimanto River
On the Shimanto River, you can experience the charm of nature with your whole body through canoeing and playing in the river. Once you try playing in the river and outdoor experiences, you'll become addicted to the fun.
Canoeing down a crystal clear stream is an experience where you can enjoy the beautiful scenery that allows you to see all the way to the riverbed, as well as the feeling of the wind and water.
![[Shimanto City, Kochi Prefecture] Introducing all the sightseeing boats you can't miss when you come to the Shimanto River!](https://resources.matcha-jp.com/resize/200x2000/2023/11/29-154343.webp)
End Day 1 with a Unique Local Stay
1. A slow-life farmhouse
One of the recommended places is a farmhouse inn.
The attraction is the "real farm experience" where you can stay in a farmhouse and experience the lifestyle and culture unique to the countryside.
Here you can enjoy hospitality that is a little different from that of hotels and inns, such as rice cooked in a kamado (traditional Japanese cooking stove) and dishes made with locally sourced ingredients.
Recommended for those who want to experience rural life and local Japanese culture.
The kamado rice served at breakfast is characterized by its plump grains and fragrant crust, allowing you to enjoy the rich aroma and flavor of the old days.
2. A luxury accommodation in Shimanto
One of the pleasures of staying at a hotel in Shimanto is, without a doubt, the bounty of the Shimanto River. You can enjoy luxurious and fresh ingredients that can only be tasted here, such as rare wild eel, sweetfish, and river shrimp.
A morning bath is also one of the best parts of traveling. A relaxing morning soak in a hot spring with a view of the Shimanto River will wake up your mind and body. Be sure to experience Japan's unique bath culture.
Day 2: Cycle Through Scenic Views and Attractions
Take a refreshing ride along the Shimanto River on a rental bike
When exploring the Shimanto River, renting a bike lets you fully experience nature. Enjoy the sound of the river, the greenery of the mountains, and the fresh air, stopping anytime to take photos of the scenery.
You can choose from electric assist bicycles, mountain bikes, city bikes, and more to suit your preferences, and you can also use the navigation system, so you can enjoy cycling in comfort.
Discover More About Shimanto River
In addition to the bonito, submerged bridges, and river activities introduced here, the Shimanto River has many more attractions in terms of nature, culture, and cuisine.You can also enjoy seasonal scenery and local experiences, so be sure to visit the area.
Further information and activity reservations can also be found on Hata Tabi.
The Hata region of Kochi Prefecture is located at the southwestern tip of Shikoku, and is a peninsula that juts out into the Pacific Ocean, facing Tosa Bay to the east and Bungo Channel to the west. It is made up of three cities, two towns, and one village: Hara Village. It is a natural powerhouse rich in blessings, including the nationally famous Shimanto River and Cape Ashizuri, the blessings of the Kuroshio Current that flows along the coast, and the blessings of mountains that boast the largest area of forests in the country.
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