The proud Kochi Castle and the sumptuous Katsuo no Tataki (seared bonito fillet) lure tourists to Kochi City. While it played vital roles during some of Japan's revolutionary periods, the city today only bears a few remnants of its heydays as Tosa Province's seat of power back in the feudal age.
The biggest attraction in Kochi is its namesake castle, which epitomizes the town's former glory. Kochi Castle may not be as grandiose as the bastion in Himeji, but it takes pride on being one of the few that have withstood the test of time and war. Another major attraction is the Godaisan, a neighboring mountain with sweeping panoramas of the city below.
After a tedious urban trek, weary travelers can reward themselves with a plate of the local specialty, the Katsuo no Tataki. Various restaurants and food places all over Japan serve this seafood dish, though proud locals claim that Kochi's is the best. Those with strong stomachs may want to ask for a serving of chichiko (bonito fish hearts) as appetizer.