Guide
Godaisan Park is a beautiful destination in the southeastern part of Kochi City, where nature and culture blend seamlessly. At the summit, a newly established observation terrace offers an expansive view of Kochi City and Urado Bay. The area is also home to the Makino Botanical Garden, which celebrates the achievements of the legendary Japanese botanist Dr. Tomitaro Makino, and the historic Chikurin-ji Temple, the 31st temple of the Shikoku Pilgrimage. This makes Godaisan a premier spot for enjoying nature observation, historical exploration, and scenic sightseeing all in one place.
Godaisan has long been a beloved landmark for the people of Kochi. At the foot of the mountain lies Chikrin-ji Temple, said to have been founded by the monk Gyoki under the orders of Emperor Shotoku. The temple's name is inspired by the landscape of Mount Wutai in China, and it houses numerous important cultural properties. In more recent history, the area is deeply connected to the legacy of Dr. Tomitaro Makino, a world-class botanist who significantly contributed to the development of botany in Japan. The Prefectural Makino Botanical Garden was established to honor his greatness and serves as a vital center for preserving botanical history and natural beauty.
Godaisan Park is packed with attractions that captivate every visitor. A must-see is the "Godaisan Park Observation Terrace," which opened in 2022. From here, you can enjoy a panoramic view of Kochi's beautiful cityscape and the blue waters of Urado Bay. Another highlight is the Makino Botanical Garden, featuring approximately 3,000 species of plants, allowing you to experience the diversity of nature up close. Additionally, at the historic Chikurin-ji Temple, you can visit the main hall—a designated Important Cultural Property—and view precious Buddhist statues, providing a sense of spiritual tranquility.
Godaisan Park reveals a different face with every season. In spring (March to May), the mountain is adorned with vibrant colors from cherry blossoms and azaleas. Summer brings lush greenery and refreshing breezes. In autumn (October to November), the landscape is beautifully colored by fall foliage. Furthermore, the observation terrace offers more than just daytime views; at night, you can witness a magical scene where the city lights reflect off the water. Whether you visit during the day or at night, the changing scenery ensures a unique experience every time.
Visitors can enjoy nature walks and historical exploration. At the Makino Botanical Garden, you can stroll through seasonal blooms while learning about plant ecology. Visiting Chikurin-ji Temple for prayer or exploring its historic architecture offers a profound cultural experience. The observation terrace is an ideal spot for photography or simply relaxing while gazing at the cityscape. Whether traveling solo or with family, there are plenty of ways to refresh your spirit in nature.
The Godaisan area is compact and easy to navigate on foot or via public transport. Most visitors explore the park, the botanical garden, and Chikurin-ji together as a single circuit. To get there efficiently from Kochi Station, you can use the "MY遊Bus" (MY Yuyu Bus) sightseeing bus, which conveniently connects various tourist sites in the city.
As the park features natural terrain, we strongly recommend wearing comfortable walking shoes, such as sneakers. This is especially important when visiting the botanical garden or the temple, as there may be unpaved paths or stairs.