Japan Water Riders in Kochi

In 2025, our journey led to Yaizu in Shizuoka, brewing coffee with deep sea water, mountain springs, and local well water. Fast forward to this year: our focus has broadened from a single cup of coffee to the plants and native environment that bring it to life.

Our latest destination is Kochi in Shikoku, where dramatic mountains meet crystal-clear rivers. We follow the flow of water as it travels from the highlands straight into local life. Here begins a travel story woven from native greenery, regional history, and living terroir.

The trip kicks off at “Goshinsui”, a hidden spring tucked away in the forest. Sunbeams pierce through lush foliage onto a steady cascade of pristine water. Filling a travel bottle at the source, a single drink of this pure water awakens every sense.

Heading down the mountain toward Tosayamada makes for an exhilarating ride through the heart of Kochi’s wilderness. Below, the emerald Monobe River drifts gently along; overhead, crisp blue skies and lush green peaks paint a magnificent backdrop.

Kicking off shoes to wade into the clear current offers immediate relief, cooling tired legs after the ride. Arranging coffee gear on the smooth riverbed stones with the sound of rushing water all around captures the true joy of taking things slow.

The ride wraps up in Tosa-Yamada, where a collective of independent spots is busy reimagining the local culture. First up is Dada Nuts Butter, instantly recognizable by its vibrant,foreign-inspired red window frames. Staff member Hiroe Nomura greets us with a warm smile: “We craft these to bring out the personality of each ingredient.” From there, it’s straight to sampling a lineup of thoughtfully roasted nut butters.

Next, we head to Royal Niboshi Coffee Stand, where a classic wooden door gives way to a warm, inviting space. Owner Shimazaki-san kindly prepares a few special concoctions on the spot; a Buntan citrus syrup shakerato, followed by an iced cold brew laced with yuzu and sparkling water. “After a long ride, this ice-cold citrus hit is unbeatable,” we agree, savoring every drop of these uniquely crafted local flavors.

We also dropped by Oyot Hair, owned by model Tae Takahashi. This cool hybrid space combines her hair salon with her husband Yuya’s custom bike shop, capturing a free-spirited lifestyle that bridges nature and town.

Leaving town behind, we lean into the poetic rhythm of the historic Tosaden streetcar toward Monjudori Station. After devouring freshly fried croquettes on a bench outside “Suzuki Meat”, we step onto the pilgrimage trail leading to Chikurin-ji, the 31st temple on the Shikoku 88-temple circuit.

We trek up the mossy cobblestone trail, stopping to bow before a quaint stone deity along the way. Reaching the crest reveals a sweeping panoramic vista of Kochi’s urban center and rustic fields. Cooling off in the wind, we take in the scene; reaching a view like this under your own steam makes every step worthwhile.

Next, our journey shifts to the Kochi Prefectural Makino Botanical Garden, a living tribute to Dr. Tomitaro Makino. Celebrated as the “Father of Japanese Botany,” his legacy rose to national fame through NHK’s hit morning drama Ranman.

High on a hilltop under the shade of a majestic crape myrtle, we lay out a rug and open our lunchboxes. Inside lies traditional *inaka-zushi* from the classic Harimaya-bashi Sushiryu, featuring mountain vegetables and local ingredients set out like jewels; a rustic feast that brings smiles with every single bite.

And now for the climax. With the sacred Goshinsui water retrieved from the headwaters early this morning, we carefully prepare a cold brew using SAANCI beans. “I never knew coffee brewed with source water could taste this remarkably crisp and clean,” comes the smiling verdict.

The exquisite mountain water and the gifts of the earth come together seamlessly, and a bright, fruity aroma greets us before the very first taste. We are fortunate enough to experience Kochi’s terroir through every sense; bringing a gorgeous travel story to its perfect end.