Is whale watching available in Kochi and Ogata? Comparison of recommended areas
Table of Contents
- 1 Is whale watching possible in Kochi?
- 2 Basic Knowledge of Kochi Whale Watching
- 3 Whale Watching: Current Status and Characteristics of Most of the Whale Watching
- 4 Kochi, Oita and Nationwide Compare Whale Watching Spots
- 5 Nationwide area popular with those who want to ensure enjoyment.
- 6 Key Points for Choosing Whale Watching
- 7 Kochi-Ohkata Whale Watching Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
- 8 summary
Is whale watching possible in Kochi?

Kochi Prefecture's oceans are blessed with abundant nature, and although whale watching is an attraction,Types of whales seen, season of observation, and certainty of encounterconditions are limited compared to standard spots such as Okinawa in terms of
First, understanding the actual whales that can be seen in Kochi and the best season to see them will ensure a successful experience.
In this article,Whale Watching in KochiIt is easy to get an idea of the experience because you can see the
◆Considering whale watching experience in Kochi and Oita
◆Those who wish to compare and choose between whale watching spots in Japan and Kochi/Ohata.
◆Those who want to know the current status of whale watching in the Oita area and how it compares to other areas.
↓Click here to read the article.
Can I go whale watching in Wakayama? What you need to know about the highlights and how to enjoy themTable of Contents1 Can I go whale watching in Wakayama? 2 Basic knowledge about whale watching in Wakayama2.1 What can I see in Wakayama's waters [...] Popular whale watching tours are
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Basic Knowledge of Kochi Whale Watching

Before enjoying whale watching in Kochi, there is some basic information you should keep in mind!
It is helpful to understand what kind of whales can be seen at what time of year, as well as points of observation and precautions to take.
From here, actually observed in KochiTypes of whales and best seasonâ
Popular whale watching tours are
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Whales seen in Kochi and their season

The main whales observed in Tosa Bay in Kochi and other areas areBonin whale (Balaenoptera borealis)and Mileka, Humpback dolphins, and Humpback dolphins, etc.Cetaceanscan also be seen.
Large whales mainly observed in Tosa Bay
◆Mileka
They have a habit of swimming alongside boats and entertain us with their lively behavior.
◆hand dolphin (Tursiops truncatus)
Highly intelligent, often seen in dolphin shows and other types of shows.
◆Hana Gondola
Relatively gentle nature, dolphins often work in groups
The observation season isMay-Oct.The main period of the year is around 1900, when the weather is relatively mild, and regular tours are offered during this time.
The real limitation of whale watching in Kochi is that there are days when it is impossible to sail because of the rough seas and weather conditions.
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When is the best season for whale watching? A guide to recommended times and attractions by regionTable of Contents1 When is the best time to go whale watching? The best season for whale watching2 What is the attraction of whale watching3 [...].
Whale watching area in Kochi

As for areas in Kochi Prefecture where whale watching experiences are available,Coast of Tosa Bay centered on Ohkata Town (now Kuroshio Town)There is aFrom May to the end of October every yearRegular flights are operated to
There are areas off Cape Muroto where sperm whales, short-finned pilot whales, short-finned pilot whales, and other offshore cetaceans can be seen, depending on the time of year and sea conditions.
However, the frequency of sailings and number of tours are not large,Check reservations and wind and wave conditions in advance.The key to success is to
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Introduction to Whale Watching! Recommended spots, times of year, and whale watching tours.Contents1 What is Whale Watching2 Whale Watching Seasons and Locations3 What is the Appeal of Whale Watching? [...].
Whale Watching: Current Status and Characteristics of Most of the Whale Watching

Ohkata-cho is the central area where people searching for "Ohkata, Kochi" expect to find whale watching experiences.
From here, we will introduce the whale encounter rates and attractions in Oita, and compare them to other coastal areas in the prefecture,Reference whether or not to select most of them.You can do this in the following way
Next, we will discuss the unique characteristics of most of theAdvantages and cautionsLet's take a closer look at the following
Popular whale watching tours are
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Attractions and possibilities to experience in the greater area

Mostly for whale watching,Cetacean encounter rate of approximately 801 TP3Tand can be experienced relatively consistently with scheduled and charter flights between May and October.
The abundance of nature in the local sea, together with the beautiful scenery, allows visitors to enjoy the company of seabirds and dolphins, which is an added value for tourism.
On the other hand, "dramatic shows" such as the jumping of large whales like humpback whales and parent and calf whales are not expected,Observation distance is often relatively farIt is important to note that this is not the case.
| (data) item | Contents |
|---|---|
| encounter rate | Cetacean encounter rate is about 80%. Relatively stable observation by scheduled and charter flights. |
| Observation period | Tours operate from May to October. |
| attraction | The area is rich in marine nature and offers beautiful scenery and the chance to see sea birds and dolphins. |
| important point | There are few dramatic shows such as humpback whale jumps or parent and calf whales, and observation distances may be long. |
Differences from other areas in Kochi Prefecture

In Kochi Prefecture, there are other areas with long coastlines such as Usa and Cape Ashizuri in addition to Oita, and the type and frequency of whales seen differs.
In the Usa area, we often go offshore, and there is a possibility of observing sperm whales and other cetaceans that live in the deep sea area.
Rich natural environment and enjoy the sceneryWhale watching in relatively quiet waters is available.
◆Fewer tours, and access and sailing probability are more unstable than most.

While the Cape Ashizurimisaki area offers opportunities to observe deep-sea whales,The sea conditions are highly variable.Tour operations may be limited.
The magnificent natural scenery and the beauty of the cliffs are also attractive and can be enjoyed in combination with sightseeing♪
Fewer options than most for access and lodging,Check timing of tour reservations and sailing statusis important!
◆Sailing conditions and access restrictions may make it difficult to secure tours.
Considering the number of tours and the convenience of accessibility,Most have excellent accommodations and transportation.In many cases.
However, it is important to confirm tour conditions well in advance, as the ability to sail depends on weather and sea conditions!
Kochi, Oita and all over Japan.
Compare Whale Watching Spots

Based on the characteristics of Kochi and Oita, Okinawa, Amami, Hokkaido, etc.A classic spot with a reputation for ease of whale encounters and experiences.Compare the following â
This will give an idea of the best place for those who want to try it in Kochi, but want to be sure to encounter powerful whales if possible!
Next, we will organize specific differences in encounter rates, timing, cost, and access.
Whale encounter rate is high!
↓Click here for popular whale watching tours.
Whale Watching Tour in Okinawa, a tour of great power, "No need to bring anything!開始時間8:30-12:00所要時間Approximately 3.5 hours5,800 yen
Whale Watching Tour in Naha, Okinawa, Japan (December-April, winter only)開始時間1:15 p.m. - 4:45 p.m.所要時間Approximately 3.5 hours5,800 yen
Amami-Oshima Island/Winter Cruise】Choice of half-day or full-day whale watching tour☆Experience the thrill of seeing humpback whales up close and personal開始時間Half-day course9:00-12:00 / 13:30-16:30One-day course
9:00-15:00所要時間Approx. 3 hours / Approx. 6 hours8,800 yen
Popular whale watching tours are
this way (direction close to the speaker or towards the speaker)
Differences in encounter rates
(Kochi vs. Okinawa, Amami, Hokkaido)

For the most part, the information is that the cetacean encounter rate is about 801 TP3T, which is stable but not "almost certain".
On the other hand, in the Kerama Islands of Okinawa, the winter season runs from late December to early April,Humpback whale encounter rate 95-981 TP3TThe reported values are as high as
Amami Oshima Island is also popular as a spot where humpback whales, including parents and calves, can be observed with a relatively high probability, mainly from January to March.
The encounter rate is almost 1001 TP3T!
↓Click here for popular whale watching tours.
No.614: No cancellation fee until 18:00 on the day before the tour starts (No.614)! Whale watching tour with encounter rate of 1001 TP3T★Okay for ages 0 and up!開始時間9:00-12:30 / 13:30-16:30所要時間Approx. 3.5 hours5,800 yen
Whale Watching: A full day course with a powerful whale watching experience! Encounter rate is almost 100%★4 years old and up is OK!開始時間9:00-16:30所要時間Approx. 8.5 hours11,000 yen Popular whale watching tours are
this way (direction close to the speaker or towards the speaker)
Differences in the time of year when you can experience

Whale watching in Kochi and Oita is mainlyMay-Oct.This can be adjusted with some charter flights, etc., for a limited period of time.
Okinawa, Kerama and Amami areLate December - Early Aprilis the best season to see humpback whales giving birth and raising their young.
In Hokkaido, sperm whales and killer whales can be seen from summer to autumn, and although the range of seasons is wider than in Kochi, the cold and severe sea conditions are hurdles.
Whale watching season is mainly from May to October.
Some charter flights can be arranged for observation outside of the period.
Mainly skipjack whales and dolphins
Okinawa, Kerama Islands, Amami
The best season is from late December to early April.
Humpback whales can be observed giving birth and raising their young up close.
There is a high probability of seeing large whales jumping and parent and calf whales.
◆Hokkaido
Sperm whales and killer whales can be observed from summer to autumn.
The range of seasons is wide, but sea conditions and cold weather are hurdles to observation.
Differences in cost and accessibility

Tours to Kochi and Oita are affordable with regular flights, and transportation access and accommodations are easy to secure,Easy to balance cost and timeis the advantage!
Traveling to Okinawa, Kerama, or Amami costs more, including airfare, boat, and lodging, but the experience you get is more certain and more powerful.
For Hokkaido, the distance, season, and sea conditions are more restrictive, and incidental costs such as long itineraries and the need for winter equipment should also be considered.
Nationwide area popular with those who want to ensure enjoyment.

For those who want to be sure to see whales, or to see powerful jumps and parent and calf whales up close,Spots in Okinawa/Amami/Hokkaidois recommended♪
Knowing what types of whales can be seen and what types of experiences can be had in each area will help you plan your visit.
From here,Highlights and observation points in each areain detail!
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Where to go whale watching? The best places to see whales in Japan and why they are so popular.Contents1 What is whale watching2 What kind of whales can be seen in Japan3 Where you can enjoy whale watching in Japan [...] Popular whale watching tours are
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main island of Okinawa

On the main island of Okinawa,Late December to early Apriltohumpback whale (Megaptera novaeangliae)gather to breed and raise their young.
Many tours, especially those based in Naha, such as Tokashiki Island and Zamami Island, are available.Easy access to the Kerama Islands.
In the crystal clear waters, you will be able to enjoy the powerful scenes of whale jumping and tail fin blows up close...â
Held on the main island of Okinawa!
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Whale Watching Tour in Okinawa, a tour of great power, "No need to bring anything!開始時間8:30-12:00所要時間Approximately 3.5 hours5,800 yen
Whale Watching Tour in Naha, Okinawa, Japan (December-April, winter only)開始時間1:15 p.m. - 4:45 p.m.所要時間Approximately 3.5 hours5,800 yen Held on the main island of Okinawa!
Click here for whale watching tours
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Whale Watching in Okinawa!Table of Contents 1 What is whale watching in Okinawa in January? 2 Whale watching in Okinawa in January is the best season [...].
Kerama Islands

The Kerama Islands is an area where humpback whales gather from late December to early April to give birth and raise their young.Encounter rate 95-981 TP3TThe company boasts a
The high transparency of the ocean and the beautiful "Kerama blue" waters allow for close-up observation of dramatic whale behavior such as jumping.
Access is easy by ferry or boat tours from Naha and other areas, and there is a good tourist infrastructure.Easily chosen by beginner travelers.It is.
Held in the Kerama Islands!
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Naha Morning】This tour is fully booked! Half-day Whale Watching Tour by Exclusive Large Cruiser Guided by a veteran captain, the discovery rate will exceed 97% in 2024☆ (No.305)開始時間8:30-12:00 所要時間Approx. 3 hours6,000 yen
Naha Afternoon】This tour is fully booked! A half-day whale watching tour on a dedicated large cruiser! The discovery rate of whale watching by veteran captains will exceed 97% in 2024☆(No.358)開始時間1:00-4:00 p.m.所要時間Approx. 3 hours6,000 yen
Naha departure/Kerama/Tokashiki Island】12/21~3/31 Limited☆Attention: Full! Abaren Beach Walk & Whale Watching Tour《0-Year-Year-Old OK!開始時間9:15-15:00所要時間Approximately 5.5 hours7,980 yen Held in the Kerama Islands!
Click here for whale watching tours
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Explanation of the whale-watching season and whale encounter rates in the Kerama Islands (Zamami, Tokashiki, and Aka Island)!Table of Contents 1 Held in Kerama (Zamami, Tokashiki, Aka Island)! What is the whale watching season and encounter rate? 2 Whale watching [...].
Amami Oshima

The population of humpback whales is increasing on Amami Oshima Island,Peak season from February to MarchIt is.
Many tours offer a relatively calm atmosphere for observation, and are suitable for those seeking whale watching with parents and children or in quiet waters.
Combining sightseeing and nature for your stayThe strength of this area is that you can enjoy beautiful beaches, forests, and local culture, and it is easy to make plans for ways to spend your time outside of activities.
Held on Amami Oshima!
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Amami northern area/January to March only☆/Half day] Whale watching tour to see humpback whales Achieved 90% encounter rate in 2024! (No.17)開始時間9:00-12:00 / 13:00-16:00所要時間Approx. 3 hours7,700 yen
Amami-Oshima Island/Winter Cruise】Choice of half-day or full-day whale watching tour☆Experience the thrill of seeing humpback whales up close and personal開始時間Half-day course9:00-12:00 / 13:30-16:30One-day course
9:00-15:00所要時間Approx. 3 hours / Approx. 6 hours8,800 yen
Held on Amami Oshima!
Click here for whale watching tours
↓Click here to read the article.
Let's meet whales in the sea of Amami Oshima! A complete guide to whale watching, even for beginners!Contents1 Whale Watching Experience on Amami Oshima Island2 Whale watching is popular on Amami Oshima Island! 2.1 Humpback whales visit [...]
Shiretoko, Hokkaido

Mainly summer through fall in Hokkaido,Orcas and sperm whalesand other large whales and deep-sea species can be seen in the area.
Observe whales in the great outdoors, especially in places like ShiretokoEcological tours are availableThe charm of this area is its sense of unity with the natural environment.
The experience of encountering large marine creatures is particularly powerful and moving, and is popular among domestic and international travelers.
Held in Hokkaido, Japan!
↓Click here for whale watching tours
Hokkaido Rausu Whale Watching Cruise (April-October only): Experience the thrill of meeting orcas, whales, and dolphins! Whale Watching Cruise 《Make reservations by 20:00 the day before/ Ages 0 to 12 years old》 Sailing on the sightseeing ship Aruran III! (No.v-1)開始時間8:30-11:00 / 12:30-15:00所要時間Approximately 2 to 2.5 hours
Hokkaido, Shiretoko Rausu/Spring to Autumn only] Meet wild animals! Whale & Bird Watching 《with guide commentary/0years〜OK》(No.v-2)開始時間8:30-11:00 / 12:30-15:00所要時間Approx. 2.5 hours
Key Points for Choosing Whale Watching

After comparing whale-watching spots across the country, you can choose the right place for you by comparing severalcheckpointIt is important to keep the
Particularly,Encounter rate with whalesThe high cost of the project, combined with its accessibility and facilities as a tourist destination, as well as theSafety for beginners and familiesand ease of enjoyment will lead to a more satisfying experience.
Next, here are some tips for choosing a whale watching tour♪
Popular whale watching tours are
this way (direction close to the speaker or towards the speaker)
What if the encounter rate is important?

If you want certainty,Kerama, Okinawais the most promising!
Encounter rate 95-981 TP3TThe data shows that the number of tours with a small number of itineraries is high, which means that even with a small number of itineraries, a high level of satisfaction can be expected.
In Kochi and Oita, it is around 80%, which is not bad, but there is no guarantee that you will see it, and you should assume that there is a possibility that you may not see it under sea conditions and other conditions!
Held in the Kerama Islands!
↓Click here for whale watching tours
Naha Morning】This tour is fully booked! Half-day Whale Watching Tour by Exclusive Large Cruiser Guided by a veteran captain, the discovery rate will exceed 97% in 2024☆ (No.305)開始時間8:30-12:00 所要時間Approx. 3 hours6,000 yen
Naha Afternoon】This tour is fully booked! A half-day whale watching tour on a dedicated large cruiser! The discovery rate of whale watching by veteran captains will exceed 97% in 2024☆(No.358)開始時間1:00-4:00 p.m.所要時間Approx. 3 hours6,000 yen
Naha departure/Kerama/Tokashiki Island】12/21~3/31 Limited☆Attention: Full! Abaren Beach Walk & Whale Watching Tour《0-Year-Year-Old OK!開始時間9:15-15:00所要時間Approximately 5.5 hours7,980 yen Held in the Kerama Islands!
Click here for whale watching tours
What if I want to enjoy it with sightseeing?

If you want to combine it with your overall sightseeing plans for the trip,Access and sightseeing facilities are excellent on Okinawa's main island and in KeramaThe city also offers a wide variety of activities other than whale watching.
Kochi and Oita also offer nature, local culture, and food, but lodging and public transportation networks may somewhat limit your options.
Amami Oshima and Hokkaido are rich in nature and offer high tourist satisfaction, but travel time, transportation costs, and accommodations must be allowed for in travel plans.
Held on the main island of Okinawa!
↓Click here for whale watching tours
No.614: No cancellation fee until 18:00 on the day before the tour starts (No.614)! Whale watching tour with encounter rate of 1001 TP3T★Okay for ages 0 and up!開始時間9:00-12:30 / 13:30-16:30所要時間Approx. 3.5 hours5,800 yen
Whale Watching: A full day course with a powerful whale watching experience! Encounter rate is almost 100%★4 years old and up is OK!開始時間9:00-16:30所要時間Approx. 8.5 hours11,000 yenWith Activities!
↓Click here for whale watching tours
Whale Watching & Boat Diving Special Package Plan with a Nearly 100% Encounter Rate (No.616)開始時間9:30-16:00所要時間Approx. 4.5 hours18,000 yen Held on the main island of Okinawa!
Click here for whale watching tours
Area suitable for beginners and families.

For inexperienced people or those with children, it is important to have good seasickness, safety and facilities!
In Kerama, OkinawaMany tours use large cruisers and have restrooms, shelters, and other facilitiesThis makes it highly secure.
In Kochi and Oita, the tours are mainly small boats and tours with a small capacity, which may cause some concerns in terms of comfort.
Recommended for beginners and families!
↓Click here for whale watching tours
Naha Morning】This tour is fully booked! Half-day Whale Watching Tour by Exclusive Large Cruiser Guided by a veteran captain, the discovery rate will exceed 97% in 2024☆ (No.305)開始時間8:30-12:00 所要時間Approx. 3 hours6,000 yen
Private Whale Watching ☆ The ship is fully chartered with your friends and family! The port is a 5-minute walk from American Village (No.249)開始時間09:00-12:00 / 13:00-16:00所要時間Approx. 3 hours8,250 yen →directional marker or indicator6,875suffix for names of swords, armour, musical instruments, etc.
Onna Village Whale Watching Tour】 Enjoy the luxury of time on a whale watching tour! Let's meet whales in the ocean of Okinawa 《Maximum 12 people》(No.248)開始時間9:00-13:00 / 13:00-17:00所要時間Approx. 4 hours128,000 yen Popular whale watching tours are
this way (direction close to the speaker or towards the speaker)
Kochi and Ohkata Whale Watching
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
However, depending on the turbulence and sea conditions, it is easy to become intoxicated, so it is safe to use anti-sickness medication and dress accordingly.
The guided tours are also a family learning experience with explanations of marine life.
summary

Kochi and Ogata are attractive options in terms of "ease + nature experience" due to their natural beauty, easy accessibility, and cost balance♪
howeverSeeking large whale jumps, parent and calf whales, and high encounter rates.Then Okinawa, Kerama, Amami, and Hokkaido are more likely to suit your purpose!
If you have time in your schedule and budget, you can include Okinawa and Amami in your itinerary from winter to spring,A whale watching experience beyond imaginationis expected to be
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Can you see whales in Miyako Island? The truth about whale watching and introduction of nearby spotsContents1 Summary of the whale situation in Miyakojima2 Can we see whales in Miyakojima? 2.1 Can whales be seen in Miyako Island [...].
Whale Watching in Ishigaki Island|Reasons Why You Cannot See Whales and Recommended Tours in Okinawa Main Island and Kerama IslandsContents1 Is Whale Watching Possible on Ishigaki Island2 What is Whale Watching2.1 Basics of Whale Watching2 [...]












