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Explore Niyodo Blue: Japan’s Most Beautiful River with Licensed Local Guide & Premium Minivan
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Joined 2025
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.
Itinerary
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
- Kochi New Port, Airport, Kochi Station, or Any Hotel in Kochi City - I offer a convenient door-to-door meet-up service using a luxury Toyota Alphard. I can meet you at any of the following locations: Kochi New Port (Cruise Ship Terminal) Kochi Ryoma Airport (KCZ) JR Kochi Train Station Any hotel or accommodation within Kochi City Please inform me of your preferred meet-up location and time in advance. I will be there to welcome you and start our Kochi adventure in comfort.
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
Want to personalize this tour?
This tour can be customized to meet your needs and preferences. Click below to send me a message with your requests.
Inclusions & Exclusions
Local English-speaking licensed guide service (Regional license holder)
Door-to-door escort by Toyota Alphard (Luxury Minivan) (Comfortable seating for up to 6 guests)
Hotel meet-up and drop-off (Within Kochi city area)
All vehicle-related expenses (Includes gasoline, expressway tolls, and parking fees)
Complimentary photos taken by your guide (I will capture your memories during the tour and share the data with you)
Meals and beverages (Lunch, snacks, and drinks during the tour)
Personal expenses (Shopping, souvenirs, and incidental costs)
Personal travel insurance (Please ensure you have your own coverage before the tour)
Tour Important Information
Tour Notes & Information
Physical Requirements: This tour involves a moderate amount of walking and stairs. Comfortable walking shoes are highly recommended.
Dietary Needs: Please inform me in advance of any food allergies or dietary restrictions.
Expenses: Meals and entrance fees are not included in the tour price.
Important Note regarding Transportation
My primary service is providing high-quality guiding as a licensed guide. For your comfort and to ensure an efficient itinerary, I provide my private vehicle as a courtesy support.
Please understand the following:
This is not a taxi or commercial transportation service.
The price difference from the "Walking Tour" option is dedicated solely to covering actual vehicle expenses, including fuel, highway tolls, parking fees, and specialized insurance.
For guests who prefer to use only public transportation or taxis, I recommend booking my "Walking Tour" option.
Important message from the supplier
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.
Cancellation Policy
- Free cancellation - 8 days prior to meeting time
- 50% Refund - 3 to 7 days prior to meeting time
- No Refund - Within 2 day(s) prior to meeting time
Joined 2025
About Tour Guide Hiroshi M.
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.
Reviews
Patricia S.
“A dream came true”
It has always been a dream of my father’s to go to Tsuno Town, a small village in Kochi with about 5 thousand people, where his ancestors came from before immigrating. Since it’s a place only accessible by car, we were searching options to take us there from Kochi and found Hiroshi-san’s personalized tour. It couldn’t have been a better experience. He is a gentle soul, safe driver and absolutely in love with Kochi itself. After paying respects in the grave of our ancestors, he showed us some beautiful sights of Kochi and took us to have lunch where we could experience local cuisine and buy plenty of souvenirs. Hiroshi-san speaks very good English and is extremely friendly. We couldn’t have asked for a better guide! Thank you for helping us make this dream come true, me and my family will definitely come back to stay longer next time!
Eric B.
“Wonderful time with Hiroshi ”
We explored the Niyodo River with Hiroshi. He took us to beautiful locations . He is very knowledgable about Kochi and Japan history. He is a very nice person and we highly recommend him.
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Hiroshi M.
Thank you so much for taking the time to share your experience with us! It was a wonderful day at the Niyodo River, and I am really glad you enjoyed the beautiful locations along the way. The Niyodo Blue is truly special, and it means a lot to hear that you felt that too. Your kind words about my knowledge of Kochi and Japanese history are very encouraging. I always try to share not just the sights, but the stories behind them. I hope you continue to enjoy the rest of your Japan cruise, and I would love to welcome you back to Kochi someday! Best, Hiroshi
Jeffrey K.
“Great visit in Kochi”
Hiroshi was an absolute gem and we were fortunate to have him as our guide in Kochi. He is both charming and full of knowledge and history about his hometown. He not only showed us the major highlights but also shared a few of the “off the beaten path” places I’m sure few have gone to as tourists. We made a friend in Japan who we would be fortunate to meet again. Jeff & Marcia
Hiroshi M.
Jeff & Marcia, thank you so much for this wonderful review! It truly made my day. You were such great guests to spend the day with, and I loved that you were open to trying everything, from the local food to the unexpected detours. That is what makes a tour memorable for me too. I hope our paths cross again someday. You are always welcome in Kochi! Hiroshi
$378/ per group
More tours by Hiroshi M.
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Kochi Highlights Tour with Licensed Local Guide & Premium Minivan (Toyota Alphard)
Explore Kochi’s top highlights in one day with a local licensed guide! Visit Kochi Castle, Chikurinji Temple, and Okawasuji Samurai Residence or Makino Botanical Garden, and enjoy local food at Hirome Market. The tour is flexible—we can visit other spots based on your interests. All photos were taken by me, and I’m happy to take photos of you during the tour and share them afterward as a free souvenir. Perfect for first-time visitors who want a personalized and memorable experience in Kochi.
Kochi Highlights Tour with Licensed Local Guide & Premium Minivan (Toyota Alphard)
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Historic Town, Bold Art and Kabuki Theater with Licensed Local Guide & Premium Minivan
Discover Kochi’s culture and scenery on this 6-hour private tour with a licensed guide. Visit a samurai house, the birthplace of Mitsubishi’s founder and a museum of bold theatrical art. If available, we’ll also explore Bentenza, a traditional kabuki theater (no show), where you can step on stage. If not available, we’ll visit Katsurahama Beach, known for ocean views and the statue of Sakamoto Ryoma a beloved historical figure. Private car included. Please check the itinerary for more details.
Historic Town, Bold Art and Kabuki Theater with Licensed Local Guide & Premium Minivan
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Kochi City Walking Tour (Public Transport & Walking Only)
Experience Kochi like a local on this immersive walking tour. You will discover the heart of Kochi in a way that’s only possible on foot. We will explore iconic landmarks such as Kochi Castle, the lively Hirome Market, and the bustling Obiyamachi arcade. If you prefer a door-to-door experience in a shorter time, I also offer a "Kochi Highlights Tour with Private Vehicle Support" featuring a comfortable Toyota Alphard. Please check my profile for more details.
Kochi City Walking Tour (Public Transport & Walking Only)
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