Niyodo Blue – Japan’s Clearest River
The Niyodo River in central Kochi is known for its brilliant “Niyodo Blue.” In 2025, it was ranked No.1 in water quality in Japan.
This tour visits Yasui Valley, where blue streams, waterfalls, and pools shine in the sunlight. Stroll riverside paths, breathe the fresh air, and enjoy the sound of flowing water.
Come and see why this “miracle clear stream” is one of Kochi’s most iconic destinations.
This itinerary can be customized to meet your needs and preferences. Send me a message with your requests!
Meeting Point
Kochi New Port, Airport, Kochi Station, or Any Hotel in Kochi City
- I will pick you up by van at Kochi New Port, Kochi Airport, Kochi Station, or any hotel in Kochi City. Please let me know your preferred pickup location and time in advance.
Nagoya Low-water Bridge
Nagoya Low-water Bridge
The Nagoya Low-water Bridge, or Nagoya Chinka-bashi, is a traditional low-water bridge crossing the Niyodo River.
Unlike modern bridges, the Nagoya Low-water Bridge offers a close, almost intimate connection with the river, allowing visitors to truly feel the harmony between human life and nature in Kochi.
Yasui Valley
Yasui Valley is one of the most stunning spots along the Niyodo River in central Kochi. Famous for its deep emerald-blue waters, it is considered one of the best places to experience the beauty of “Niyodo Blue.”
Crystal Basin (Suishō-buchi)&Sabō Dam (Check Dam)
Crystal Basin (Suishō-buchi)
The Crystal Basin, or Suishō-buchi, is one of the most iconic spots in Yasui Valley. Its name comes from the astonishing clarity of the water—so pure that the riverbed looks like polished crystal. The pool reflects sunlight in brilliant shades of blue and emerald, offering some of the clearest views of “Niyodo Blue.” Visitors often describe it as looking like liquid glass.
Sabō Dam (Check Dam)
Further upstream stands a sabō dam (erosion-control dam). While it was originally built for flood and sediment control, the calm water held back by the structure creates a mirror-like surface that beautifully reflects the surrounding forest. The contrast of man-made engineering with the untouched natural beauty highlights both the power and harmony of the landscape.
Ending Point
Kochi New Port, Airport, Kochi Station, or Any Hotel in Kochi City
This tour can be customized to meet your needs and preferences. Click below to send me a message with your requests.
English-speaking licensed guide
Private transportation by Van up to 6 people
Pick-up and drop-off
Gasoline and expressway toll fees
Parking fees
Photos by me
Meals and drinks
Personal expenses
Travel insurance (please arrange your own if needed)
*This tour involves a moderate amount of walking and stairs—comfortable shoes are recommended.
*Meals are not included in the tour price.
I currently offer several tour options, but I can also create a fully customized itinerary based on your interests. In the photo gallery, you'll find examples of places and experiences I’ve introduced to past guests.
If there’s a specific place you’d like to visit, feel free to reach out.
For cruise ship travelers, most tours are around 6 hours, so I recommend choosing 3 to 4 spots. To make planning easier, I’ve grouped locations into Central (C), Eastern(E), and Western(W) Kochi in the gallery—please use that as a reference.
I’m a local licensed guide based in Kochi Prefecture. I grew up by the Pacific Ocean in Kochi and spent four years each in Tokyo and the United States—giving me both deep local knowledge and a global perspective.
Although I’m new to GoWithGuide, I’ve been welcoming international guests for years through my private rental villa in Aki City and as a local guide in Kochi. Working in the travel industry, I know not only the famous landmarks but also the hidden gems of the region.
All the photos you see here were taken by me—I enjoy photography, and if you’d like, I’d be happy to capture some memorable shots for you during the tour.
$272/ per group