Mount Godaisan (五台山) is a mountain located in Kochi City, the capital of Kochi Prefecture, in southern Japan. It is a popular destination for hiking and sightseeing, offering stunning views of the surrounding landscape and the city below.
The mountain is named after the five Buddhist statues (godai in Japanese) located at the top of the mountain, which represent the Five Wisdom Kings in Buddhism. The statues were carved in the 16th century and are considered some of the finest examples of Buddhist art in Japan.
There are several hiking trails that lead to the top of Mount Godaisan, ranging in difficulty from easy to challenging. Visitors can also take a ropeway to a mid-mountain observation deck, offering beautiful views of the city and surrounding countryside. From there, it’s a short hike to the summit.
At the top of the mountain, visitors can explore Godaisan Chikurinji Temple (五台山竹林寺), the 31st temple on the Shikoku Pilgrimage, a famous pilgrimage route around the island of Shikoku. The temple is known for its beautiful gardens, historic buildings, and a National Treasure five-storied pagoda. The summit also features Godaisan Park, offering panoramic views listed among the “100 Best Urban Parks in Japan” and the “100 Best Night Views in Japan.”
In addition to hiking and sightseeing, Mount Godaisan is also a popular spot for cherry blossom viewing in the spring and for autumn foliage in the fall. At the foot of the mountain lies the Makino Botanical Garden, dedicated to the renowned botanist Tomitaro Makino, a native of Kochi Prefecture. The mountain is particularly beautiful during the winter months when covered in snow, offering visitors a unique and peaceful atmosphere.
Getting there
By Bus
- Take a bus bound for Godaisan from Kochi Station
- Travel time: About 25 minutes
- Get off at “Godaisan Tenbodai” (Godaisan Observatory) bus stop
By Taxi
- About 20 minutes from Kochi Station to the summit
Godaisan Park
| Hours | Open 24 hours |
| Admission | Free |
| Phone | +81 88-882-8143 |
| Address | 210-1 Gyuko, Kochi, 781-8126 |
| Official Website | https://www.pref.kochi.lg.jp/doc/godaisann/ |
Godaisan Chikurinji Temple
| Hours | 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM |
| Admission | Adults: 400 yen High school students: 200 yen Junior high school students: 150 yen Elementary school students: 100 yen |
| Phone | +81 88-882-3085 |
| Address | 3577 Godaisan, Kochi, 781-8125 |
| Official Website | http://www.chikurinji.com/ |
