Makino Botanical Garden

Spread across 8 hillside hectares on Mt. Godai, this garden honors Dr. Tomitaro Makino, the Kochi-born botanist who discovered and named over 1,500 plant species and continued his research until age 94. Around 3,000 species grow here, many named by Makino himself, from tropical plants in the conservatory to woodland walks showcasing Kochi's native flora. The main building, designed by architect Makoto Sei Watanabe, integrates naturally with the hillside and houses exhibits on Makino's botanical illustrations and research. Spring wildflowers and autumn foliage are both worth timing a visit for. The museum's profile rose sharply after NHK's 2023 drama based on Makino's life.