ABOUT
About this spot
Founded to honor the achievements of botanist Dr. Tomitaro Makino, a native of Kochi, this is one of Japan's most historic and largest botanical gardens. Making use of the terrain of Mt. Godai, which spans about 6 hectares, the garden shows about 3,000 kinds of plants, including wild plants associated with the doctor, in their seasonal looks. Highlights are the beautiful, warm wooden architecture designed by architect Hiroshi Naito, and the 17 m-high "greenhouse" with its large space. In the greenhouse you can observe rare tropical plants up close, as if adventuring through a jungle. The gardens also have exhibition rooms tracing the doctor's life and the "Makino Tomitaro Memorial Hall," with seasonal flowers in bloom, an intellectually stimulating blend of nature and culture. The observatory offers a view over Kochi City, and there are plenty of photo spots. It is a healing sightseeing spot representative of Kochi, ideal for families learning about nature, solo travelers quietly reflecting, or dates in a refined setting.
Last updated March 28, 2026