What to know
Katsurahama (桂浜) is a scenic beach located about 30 minutes south of central Kochi by bus. Due to strong currents, swimming is not allowed here. Instead, visitors can enjoy the many other attractions in the area.
A famous statue of Kochi's beloved son, Sakamoto Ryoma, stands near the beach. Ryoma was one of the architects of modern Japan, instrumental in negotiating an alliance between the Choshu and Satsuma clans that helped end Japan's feudal era in 1868. The Sakamoto Ryoma Memorial Museum sits on the hill above the beach.
Other minor points of interest include a small aquarium at the beach and a small shrine on the point of Katsurahama, connected to the museum on the hill by pleasant walking paths. Kochi's specialty dish, katsuo no tataki, is served at local restaurants.
The one-way trip by Kochiken Kotsu bus from JR Kochi Station to Katsurahama takes about 35 minutes and costs 800 yen.
Katsurahama Beach can also be reached by the My Yu Bus, a tourist bus that runs from Kochi Station via Mount Godaisan to Katsurahama. The one-way trip from Kochi Station takes about one hour, and a 1-day pass costs 1300 yen.
Visitor information
Practical details to check before planning this stop.
- Hours
- 9:00 to 17:00 (entry until 16:30)
- Closed
- No closing days
- Admission
- 900 yen (~$5.76) (during special exhibitions)
- English name
- Sakamoto Ryoma Memorial Museum
- Original name
- Katsurahama Beach
Verify details before visiting. Currency conversion is indicative and may vary over time.