Excursion Muroto unesco global park tour at Kochi

Celebrate Kochi’s unspoiled environs with a day-long adventure to Cape Muroto’s UNESCO Global Geopark, whose rugged beauty is a result of dynamic earthquakes. Then, attain spiritual enlightenment as you peer into the mythical Mikurodo Cave. Next, feel the history at Hotsumisakiji Temple, founded by the revered monk and scholar Kobo Daishi. Top up your full-day experience with a local lunch.

Muroto UNESCO Global Geopark

Located on the top of the Muroto Peninsula, the park not only showcases Kochi's natural beauty, but also its fascinating geological heritage. Muroto is a subduction zone: a place where one section of the earth's crust goes below another. It’s here, where Shikoku collides with the Pacific Ocean in a spectacular coastline, that new land is formed. Long ago, as the plate beneath the Pacific Ocean sank, the land was gradually lifted up by large earthquakes and the rock formations left behind are a beautiful record of how the planet is always changing. A walk on the path offers views of rock formations that were lifted up from the sea floor, subtropical vegetation and underwater caves.

Murotomisaki Light House

At the tip of the cape, you'll find a wonderful white lighthouse, in operation for more than 100 years and the largest headlight in Japan. This beacon can be seen from 35 miles offshore and has safely guided countless ships through these waters. From here, enjoy a short walk along one-mile stretch known as the Ransho Promenade. Breathtakingly beautiful, the unusual cliffs and reefs were created by the relentlessly pounding Pacific Ocean.

Hotsumisakiji Temple

Climb the sloping trail to Hotsumisakiji Temple. Founded by Kobo Daishi in 807, Hotsumisakiji is the 24th temple of the 88 temples of Shikoku Pilgrimage. To commemorate his achievement, Daishi took the name Kukai (meaning 'sky and sea') and built the temple atop the hill at the tip of the cape. Its marble statues of Nyoirin Kannon, Gakko, and Yakushi are considered National Treasures.

Upon conclusion of your day-long tour, return to the pier.

Points of interests

Points of interest seen on this excursion include: Kochi, Cape Muroto, Cape Muroto's UNESCO Global Geopark, Mikurodo Cavem Hotsumisakiji Temple

Note

Please note: This tour is not suitable for guests with guests with limited mobility and guests who utilise a wheelchair. Lightweight, comfortable clothing, flat, closed-toe walking shoes and sun protection are recommended. Although credit cards are mainly accepted, Japanese yen is required for any purchases: guests are advised to exchange money at the airport prior to the cruise. Local Tour Guides tend to have a strong accent, therefore we urge flexibility.