Sorayama Guesthouse: A Retreat in the Mountains of Kochi
Overlooking the pristine waters of the Kamiyakawa River is a beautiful guesthouse that allows visitors to relax and soak up the charm of slow mountain life and the encompassing beauty of nature.
During my recent trip to Shikoku, the smallest of Japan’s four major islands, I headed to the center of Kochi Prefecture, an area famous for its stunningly blue waters coined the “Niyodo Blue”. In this area, visitors can explore ancient gorges, hike next to flowing streams of pristine water, and gaze upon towering waterfalls.
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Tucked away in the secluded town of Ino, close to many of these natural wonders, is Sorayama Guesthouse (そらやまゲストハウス). With easy access to sightseeing highlights like Nikobuchi and Nakatsu Gorge, it was the perfect place for an escape in nature.
Upon entering the building, I was greeted by the friendly owner who spoke both English and Japanese. They shared their expertise on the area’s sightseeing spots and gave several dining recommendations.
The main dining space downstairs was bright and open with an attached patio that could be used freely. Tall chairs made from 2×4 planks sat behind a thick wooden tabletop facing the water.
Being a guesthouse, there were several shared facilities including the bath, shower, toilets, small kitchenette, and dining space.
The guest rooms were located upstairs. My room was bigger than the others and had a private balcony above the river. The added luxury of this balcony was worth the extra cost. From it, I could gaze across the water to see a curtain of trees blanketing the facing mountain, and watch fishermen by the riverbank enjoying an afternoon catch.
The recently renovated building overlooked the bright Kamiyakawa River with water so clear that river rocks and schools of fish could easily be seen beneath the surface.
The inside of the room was spacious with natural wooden accents, large beds, a small sink, and a mirror. Elements of Japanese design were used in an elegant and modern way.
The windows and sliding doors were made of wood and washi paper, letting in the morning light with a soft glow. Waking up to the natural alarm of the flowing river, chirping birds, and buzzing bugs outside is something I wish to enjoy every day.
For breakfast, I savored a simple yet satisfying hot breakfast from the balcony. After the meal, I reclined in the creaky wooden chair to relish a bit of downtime with a cup of tea and my book. How many places allow one to experience such a leisurely slice of time like this?
While nearby dining options were limited, the guesthouse offered an optional dinner add-on of either a BBQ set or a cooked meal. After seeing the atmosphere of the guesthouse, part of me wished I had chosen the dinner add-on instead of eating out.
Most accommodations are located closer to Kochi city, with only a few places in the area near the guesthouse. I recommend a stay at Sorayama for the perfect way to soak up Kochi’s beautiful outdoor atmosphere by the river.
Nearby Attractions
Nikobuchi
A 15-minute drive from the guesthouse. After scaling the steep metal steps down to the river, view the waterfall and deep plunge pool that glistens blue in the sunlight. This is a sacred spot so swimming is not allowed. The area is rocky and the steps can be slippery so good walking shoes are recommended. Several small parking spots and pull-offs are located near the entrance.
Nakatsu Gorge
A 30-minute drive from the guesthouse. Take a stroll upriver through the gorge where the scenery is fantastic, full of towering rocks, bridges, and beautiful blue water. It feels like walking on the set of a movie! The highlight of the hike is Uryu Falls which crashes down with a powerful spray. During the walk, see if you can spot the seven lucky god statues. Good walking shoes are recommended. Near the entrance of the hike is a small shop. Across the street is an onsen that allows for day visits.
Gohoku Musasabi Onsen
Located 2 minutes from the guesthouse. Even though bathing facilities were provided, I indulged in a trip to the nearby public bath in the evening. Here I soaked in the piping hot, rusty brown water full of iron and other minerals. The soak and sauna steam left my skin toasty warm and prepped for a good night’s sleep.
Nearby Restaurants and Cafes
Tea Cafe Asunaro
A 35-minute drive from the guesthouse. Tea Cafe Asunaro overlooks the Niyodo River, a beautifully clear river and the namesake of the region’s coined name, “Niyodo Blue”. Stop here for specialty tea sweets or light meals. The view from the patio cannot be beat.
CAFE and BEEFkaru
A 16-minute drive from the guesthouse. Open for both lunch and dinner, come to CAFE and BEEFkaru for beef-centered lunch sets or grilled yakiniku. Built inside a shipping container, the store’s facade is nondescript and easily goes unnoticed. I enjoyed a yakiniku meal here made with Tosu Wagyu.
Tree House Cafe Perch
A 16-minute drive from the guesthouse. I didn’t get to visit the Tree House Cafe Perch, but it was highly recommended by the guesthouse owner. It’s a cafe that is located in a tree! The cafe is only open a few days a week.
Interested in other interesting Japan stays? Check out these places below!