Have you ever felt that urge at the end of a trip — the one that says, “I want to bring something home for myself too”?
Bringing back gifts for family and friends is lovely, but taking home the flavors and scents you discovered on your journey is one of the true joys of travel.
Here are three special souvenirs you can only find in Kochi, perfect for a little “treat yourself” moment.
Each of them reflects the warmth, nature, and craftsmanship unique to this laid-back region of Japan.
🍋 Umaji Village “Yuzu Ponzu” — Bring the Fragrance of Kochi to Your Table
Nestled deep in the mountains of Kochi lies Umaji Village, home to just about 800 residents — yet known throughout Japan for its incredible yuzu citrus.
Their signature product, “Umaji Yuzu Ponzu Shoyu”, perfectly balances the refreshing tang of yuzu with the mellow richness of soy sauce.
It’s the ideal condiment for hot pot, salads, grilled fish, or chilled shabu-shabu. Once you’ve tried it, other ponzus might never taste the same again.
At the local Umaji Agricultural Co-op store, you’ll also find limited-edition dressings, jams, and cute bottled yuzu drinks available only on-site.
For a different kind of indulgence, Umaji also produces a range of yuzu-scented wellness items — hand creams, lip balms, bath salts, and essential oils made from real fruit.
The gentle, natural fragrance brings back memories of Kochi’s crisp mountain air and helps you unwind at the end of the day.
Umaji’s products are more than souvenirs — they’re a way to remember your journey through scent.
🍠 Imoya Kinjiro “Imokenpi” — Crispy, Golden Joy from Kochi
If Kochi had an official snack, it would be imokenpi — sweet, crispy sticks made from fried sweet potatoes.
And when it comes to the best, nothing beats Imoya Kinjiro, a specialty shop founded in 1952 in Nankoku City.
Their mission is simple yet ambitious: to turn imokenpi into a luxury treat.
Using only 100% Japanese-grown sweet potatoes and premium rice oil, each piece is fried to perfection — light, crisp, and delicately sweet.
The highlight for any visitor is the freshly fried imokenpi, available only at the main store.
You can even watch the frying process through a glass window before tasting the warm, freshly glazed pieces — the crunch and aroma are unforgettable.
There are also limited seasonal flavors, such as salted imokenpi and chocolate-coated imokenpi, which are perfect for coffee breaks or afternoon snacks.
Beyond these, Imoya Kinjiro also makes sweet potato chips and mini tarts — ideal for anyone with a soft spot for Japanese sweets.
Even if you buy them “just for yourself,” you’ll probably end up sharing — they’re that good.
🩵 Local Pokémon “Quagsire” Goods — A Touch of Kochi’s Relaxed Charm
Kochi’s official regional Pokémon is Quagsire, a gentle, water-dwelling character that perfectly captures the calm and friendly nature of the prefecture.
Exclusive Quagsire-themed merchandise is sold only in Kochi — at airports, tourist centers, and local souvenir shops.
You’ll find fun collaborations like Quagsire with Kochi Castle or “Ryoma-style” keychains inspired by local hero Sakamoto Ryoma.
There are also plush toys, tote bags, and mugs featuring the Shiman-to River — each one a charming reminder of your trip.
Just one look at Quagsire’s relaxed expression brings back memories of Kochi’s easygoing pace and tranquil scenery.
It’s the perfect “healing souvenir” to keep by your desk or on your shelf — a daily dose of nostalgia and calm.
🌿 In Summary
Kochi is a place where nature and kindness coexist in abundance.
If you want to bring that warmth home with you, try one (or all) of these:
- The fragrant yuzu of Umaji Village for a moment of calm.
- Imoya Kinjiro’s crispy imokenpi for a sweet spark in your day.
- A Quagsire souvenir to keep the laid-back spirit of Kochi close.
Each one is filled with the gentle essence of Kochi — simple, heartfelt, and truly one of a kind.
Next time you visit, don’t forget to add them to your “souvenirs for myself” list.