Sakamoto Ryoma: Walking the Hometown of the Bakumatsu Era's Greatest Revolutionary Born in Kochi

Sakamoto Ryoma: A Hero of the Bakumatsu Era That Kochi is Proud of

Sakamoto Ryoma, born in Kamimachi, Kochi City, Kochi Prefecture in 1835 (Tenpo 6), rose from a goshi (lower-class samurai) of the Tosa domain and contributed to realizing the Satsuma-Choshu Alliance and the Return of Power to the Emperor — the greatest revolutionary of the Bakumatsu era. Assassinated at the young age of 33, he still remains beloved by many as a person who greatly influenced Japan's modernization.

Kochi Ryoma Memorial Museum

The "Kochi Ryoma Memorial Museum" built on a hill near Katsurahama is a facility where Ryoma's life and thoughts can be learned. Through letters, historical documents, and video exhibits, a deep understanding of Ryoma's character can be gained. The view overlooking the Pacific Ocean from inside the museum is also spectacular.

Ryoma Statue at Katsurahama

The bronze statue of Ryoma standing on the beach at Katsurahama (Kochi City), famous for its pose gazing at the Pacific Ocean, is a standard Kochi tourist spot. The "Ryoma Festival" is held around Sakamoto Ryoma's death anniversary (November 15th).

Ryoma's Birthplace and Kamimachi

A stone monument stands at "Sakamoto Ryoma's Birthplace" in Kamimachi, Kochi City, commemorating Ryoma's birth. The "Museum of the Town Where Ryoma Was Born" is also nearby, allowing learning about the life of Tosa goshi.

Access

Approximately 40 minutes by bus from JR Kochi Station to Katsurahama. Ryoma-related sites throughout Kochi city can also be toured by rental bicycle or streetcar.