Katsurahama is one of Kochi’s most beloved beaches, a scenic crescent of sand backed by green pines and framed by rocky headlands where the Pacific rolls in. Long celebrated as a spot for moon-viewing, it is more a place for scenery than swimming — the waves and currents can be strong — and its great landmark is the towering bronze statue of Sakamoto Ryoma, the Kochi-born samurai visionary who helped bring about the Meiji Restoration and the birth of modern Japan. He gazes out across the ocean he dreamed Japan would open to, and the setting, with a small shrine on the rocks and wide sea views, makes Katsurahama a moving pilgrimage for admirers of Ryoma and a fine coastal stop for everyone.
🗓️ At a Glance
| Location | Katsurahama, Kochi City |
| Hours | Open beach; daylight |
| Admission | Free (parking fee) |
| Time needed | 1 hour |
| Best time | Clear days; autumn moon-viewing |
What to See
- A scenic pine-fringed beach on the Pacific.
- The towering bronze statue of Sakamoto Ryoma.
- A small shrine on the rocky headland.
- Famous moon-viewing scenery and wide sea views.
Combine Your Visit
- Combine with the Sakamoto Ryoma Memorial Museum above the beach.
- Pair with Kochi Castle in the city.
- Read our Kochi overview .
Getting There
- By bus: buses run from central Kochi to Katsurahama.
- By car: parking near the beach.
Tips
Come for the scenery and the Ryoma statue rather than swimming, as the currents here are strong and swimming is discouraged. Combine it with the Ryoma memorial museum on the hill above for the full story, come on a clear day or for the celebrated autumn moon, and allow a little time to walk out to the shrine on the headland.
