introduction

Kōchi Prefecture is a prefecture of Japan, located on the island of Shikokuon, on the south coast of Shikoku. It is the largest but least populous of Shikoku's four prefectures. Most of the province is mountainous. The capital is the city of Kōchi, which is famous for its rivers.

surfing

Kochi Prefecture is the main division of eastern and southern coastline on the island of Shikoku. A little difficult to reach and a challenging experience for the non Japanese speaking traveller but well worth an extended stay during winter (Dec-Feb) regardless of the swell direction, options abound.

where to stay

In most parts of Japan you’ll find a wide range of accommodation available both of typical Japanese and more westernised styles – as well as more novelty variations such as capsule hotels and temple lodgings.  One note worth taking though is that all prices advertised are per person and not per room.
Accommodation types you’re likely to come across are as follows:-

Ryokan

Ryokan are truly traditional Japan style Inns with authentically decorated rooms and Japanese meals included. These are a good option for a traveller wanting a real taste of traditional Japanese culture.

Minshuku

These are like a Japanese bed and breakfast, usually small places run by families that again offer a good Japanese cultural experience and the price includes a Japanese breakfast.

Western style hotels

You can find all the major hotel chains in Japan – particularly in the larger cities, this option can be expensive however.

Dormitories and Hostels

Backpacker hostels offering dorm style rooms can be found all over Japan for the traveller on a budget for a reasonable price and many offer single sex dorms.

Capsule Hotels

These offer bare the  minimum requirement of a single bed in a capsule – no standing room – these are pretty unique to Japan and not for the claustrophobic! Though it’s worth a night in one for the novelty value, some have a mini TV in there too and all have shared bathrooms, of course.

Temple Lodgings

Some Buddhist temples allow travellers to spend a night there for the cultural experience, worth doing as a one off.

Longer stays

There are many apartment blocks all over the major towns and cities in Japan offering weekly or monthly rates of rent for those wishing to stay longer – these can work out as a cheap option over a long period.

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