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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
Calvin K.
“Paper making and Niyoda River Tour ”
We can’t recommend Hiroshi enough! From start to finish, he planned an amazing one-day tour for my wife and me, perfectly customized to our interests. His Toyota Alphard was spotless, spacious, and comfortable, and Hiroshi himself was courteous, friendly, and a pleasure to spend the day with. Our adventure began at a washi paper studio and museum, where we had a blast trying our hand at traditional washi paper-making. Next, we stopped to watch fresh bonito (Kochi’s famous Katsuo no Tataki) being seared over straw flames before enjoying a delicious takeaway lunch. The day continued with stunning views of the Niyodo River, a drive across the iconic Nagoya Chinkabashi (submersible bridge), a visit to a scenic village popular on social media, and finally, a hike to the breathtaking Niyodo Blue, where we got to witness a beautiful waterfall. Along the way, Hiroshi also shared fascinating stories about Kochi’s history and culture, making the experience even more enriching. What impressed us most was how smoothly and thoughtfully everything was organized. We packed so much into one day without ever feeling rushed, leaving us plenty of time to relax and enjoy each experience. As a wonderful finishing touch, Hiroshi even shared some fantastic photos he had taken of us throughout the tour! If you’re looking for a knowledgeable, thoughtful, and personable guide to help you discover the best of Kochi, we highly recommend Hiroshi. He made our day truly memorable, and we couldn’t have asked for a better experience!
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Hiroshi M.
Thank you so much for this wonderful review! It was a real pleasure to spend the day with you and your wife. I was so happy you enjoyed making washi paper and watching the katsuo no tataki being seared over big straw flames. Those are some of my favorite ways to show guests the real Kochi. The hike to the Niyodo Blue was not easy, but you both did great, and the waterfall at the end was worth it. I also really enjoyed our talks in the car about history, Japan, and even K-pop. I learned a lot from you both. I'm glad you liked the photos too. There is still so much more of Kochi to see, like the Iya Valley and our summer matsuri. I hope to welcome you back someday!
Rosa maria C.
“Informative and Caring Guide”
Hiroshi was great from the first initial contact we had with him! His suggestions were excellent, and was able to provide 2 days of sights, even with rain!! Would definitely recommend him!
Hiroshi M.
Thank you so much for your kind words! I really enjoyed planning this trip with you from the first message. We changed the plan a few times together, and I think it became a great two days. Even with the rain, we saw so much of Kochi and the Iya Valley. Please come back to Shikoku again. It would be great to see you both again!
Carl S.
“Wonderful Kochi tour with Hiroshi”
Our group of 8 thoroughly enjoyed our day with HIROSHI. He was very knowledgeable and engaging. Everyone in our group commented afterwards about how good a guide he was. We would highly recommend him for anyone visiting Kochi.
Hiroshi M.
Thank you so much for this kind review! It was a real pleasure to spend the day with your group of eight. I'm very happy to hear that everyone enjoyed the tour and learning about Kochi together. Guiding a big group is always fun, and your group made the day so easy and cheerful. I hope you enjoyed the rest of your cruise, and I would love to welcome you back to Kochi someday!
$410/ 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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Traditional Papermaking Experience & Riverside Tour with Licensed Guide and Premium Minivan
Discover the 1,000-year legacy of Tosa Washi and the crystal-clear Niyodo River. This 6-hour private journey is ideal for those seeking authentic craftsmanship. Create your own paper at the Ino Museum and visit the iconic Nagoya Chinka Bridge to see the stunning "Niyodo Blue" water. Travel comfortably in a Premium Minivan with a local expert. I provide vehicle support to ensure an efficient, personalized trip from the port. Experience Kochi’s heritage!
Traditional Papermaking Experience & Riverside Tour with Licensed Guide and Premium Minivan
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