Adventure Down the Shimanto River Valley, Japan’s Best-Kept Secret

From hiking to canoeing, this itinerary is filled with excitement.

The Shimanto River valley flows some 196 kilometers from the mountains of western Kochi Prefecture before emptying into the Pacific Ocean. Unlike most rivers in Japan, there are no dams along its entire length, making it one of Japan’s last free-flowing rivers. The river valley’s unspoiled nature, well-preserved culture and traditional cuisine has led it to be called Japan’s ‘best-kept secret.’ 

On this exciting, 4-day, 3-night tour, you’ll experience all that the valley has to offer as you make your way from the river’s source to its mouth. This includes hiking through the Shikoku Karst, making traditional Japanese paper, exploring the river’s headwaters, caving, and touring the Yusuhara Town Library, which was designed by the world-famous architect Kuma Kengo. Next, take a pilgrimage to local temples, relax at a café in a traditional house, and travel on a single-car train.

The highlight of the tour is saved for last, as you canoe (or kayak) on the Shimanto River’s crystal-clear waters. You’ll gain a new perspective from water-level of the majestic river and its mountainous surroundings.

Access: From Tokyo Haneda Airport to Kochi Ryoma Airport it is about 1 hour and 30 minutes by plane. From Kochi Ryoma Airport to Kochi Station, it is about 30 minutes by shuttle bus. From Kochi Station to Susaki Station, it is about 40 minutes by express train. From Susaki Station to Nitta bus stop, it is about 1 hour by bus.

All Over The Shimanto Adventure Tour　(Kochi Escapes)