Text and photos by Wei Ruyu
Because the Japanese TV drama “Ryoma-den” was well-received when aired in Taiwan, the hometown of Sakamoto Ryoma—Kochi Prefecture (formerly known as “Tosa”)—has become popular with Taiwanese travelers in recent years.
From the statue of Ryoma in the Kochi Airport lobby, to the local hair salons that use “Ryoma” as part of their shop names, as well as the ongoing “Sakamoto Ryoma Exhibition” in Kochi City (running until March 31, 2012), including the Kochi Prefectural Government’s special purchase of the filming locations used in “Ryoma-den” from NHK... one can deeply sense the local pride in Ryoma. In this prefecture/city with a population of around 800,000, besides its rich historical culture, the Shimanto River, which originates from the rugged mountains within the prefecture, is known as “Japan’s last clear stream.” The crystal-clear river is said to be home to over 200 species of fish. Not only vital to the livelihood of local fishermen, this 196-kilometer-long river, the longest in Shikoku, has also become a key tourism highlight of Kochi. Along its upstream, midstream, and downstream sections, 33 scenic spots and cycling paths have been developed, where visitors can also enjoy kayaking and ride yakatabune boats that date back to the Edo period.
The “Sakamoto Ryoma Exhibition” held in Kochi City has attracted over 50,000 visitors since its opening. (Photo by travel writer Wei Ruyu)
The large statue in front of the Sakamoto Ryoma Exhibition plaza is particularly eye-catching. (Photo by travel writer Wei Ruyu)
The filming locations of “Ryoma-den” have been fully relocated and displayed in Ryoma’s hometown. (Photo by travel writer Wei Ruyu)
The Shimanto River, known as “Japan’s last clear stream,” features unique sunken bridges designed to facilitate cross-river transportation while coping with seasonal flooding. (Photo by travel writer Wei Ruyu)
For those who love outdoor activities and crave more excitement, venture beyond Kochi Prefecture. Between Imabari City in Ehime Prefecture and Onomichi City in Hiroshima Prefecture, you can witness the spectacular view of seven bridges—including the Kurushima Kaikyo Bridge, the Hakata-Oshima Bridge, and the Tatara Bridge—that connect six islands to the main island of Honshu. In this area known as “Japan’s Aegean Sea,” you can not only cycle across the magnificent bridges but also take boat trips to see the whirlpools at Naruto Strait in the Seto Inland Sea—an exceptionally unique experience. The distinctive geographical features of the Shikoku region offer another captivating side of Japan.
The many bridges in the Seto Inland Sea region form a uniquely stunning landscape, as shown here with the Kurushima Kaikyo Bridge. (Photo by travel writer Wei Ruyu)
- 1
- 2
- 3
- 4