Kuroshio, town in Hata district, Kōchi prefecture, Japan
Kuroshio is a small coastal town in Kōchi Prefecture, Japan, situated at the edge of the Hata region and facing the Pacific Ocean. The town is defined by Irinohama Beach's 4-kilometer stretch of sand, the Irino Matsubara coastal forest dating from the late 1500s, and shallow waters suitable for swimming and kayaking.
Kuroshio has deep roots in fishing traditions and was shaped during the reign of Chosokabe Motochika, when the Irino Matsubara coastal forest was planted in the late 1500s. The town endured major challenges like the 1707 tsunami, with residents supporting forest maintenance across generations.
Kuroshio's identity centers on its fishing heritage and daily connection to the ocean. The streets reflect this bond through fresh fish markets, traditional bonito dishes, and local habits that revolve around the sea and its rhythms.
Visitors can purchase fresh seafood and local products at the Bios Ogata Roadside Station or Nabura Tosasaga Station, where daily fishing and agricultural products are offered. Early morning visits allow observation of fishing and market activity, while car access is easiest since public transport is limited.
The town offers sea salt-making workshops where visitors can collect water from the Pacific and dry it in the sun. This hands-on experience connects visitors directly with local production methods and ocean resources that have shaped the region for generations.
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