#Japan #Kochi #Kochi Prefecture #Mercure Hotel #Ryosho Market

Experience Local Agriculture at Mercure Kochi Tosa Resort & Spa

As we approach the Golden Week, the Mercure Kochi Tosa Resort & Spa is excited to introduce a new offering that captures the essence of local culture. Beginning April 25, 2026, the hotel will host the "Ryosho Market" every morning from 7 AM in its lobby. This unique event provides a platform for local farmers from Geisei Village to sell their fresh produce at an astonishing price of just 100 yen per bag.

What Is the Ryosho Market?

Located along the scenic Shikoku mountains and boasting beautiful views of Tosa Bay, Geisei Village is renowned for its fertile lands and rich agricultural traditions. The area thrives thanks to its mild climate, providing an ideal environment for producing a diverse range of vegetables all year round.

The concept of the "Ryosho Market" originates from the Showa era and represents a beloved cultural tradition in Kochi. These self-service stalls are typically positioned alongside roads or within local communities, relying on the trust between buyers and sellers. By hosting this market within the hotel, guests and visitors can easily access top-quality vegetables and support local farmers while experiencing a touch of Kochi’s gastronomic delight.

Fresh Produce Offerings

Eggplants from Geisei Village

Kochi Prefecture is a leading region for eggplant production. Utilizing greenhouse cultivation techniques, these eggplants flourish in the warm climate, achieving their peak season from December to June. They are juicy and full of flavor, making them perfect for grilled dishes or eggplant dip.

• - Recommended Preparation: Bake simply with olive oil and sea salt for a delightful taste.

Peppers from Geisei Village

Kochi's peppers thrive in both greenhouse and open-field settings throughout the year. The village produces crisp green and red varieties that are pleasingly sweet and packed with nutrients.

• - Recommended Preparation: Slice fresh peppers and toss them into salads for a refreshing twist. If they're a few days old, try sautéing them to bring out their sweetness.

Tomatoes from Kochi

These tomatoes, cultivated primarily in greenhouses, are harvested predominantly from December to June. With varieties ranging from large to mini, these tomatoes are known for their vibrant sweetness and delicious balance of acidity.

• - Recommended Preparation: Enjoy them fresh, straight from the market!

Shishito Peppers from Kochi

Kochi boasts the highest production volume of shishito peppers in Japan, especially during the winter-spring seasons. The soft skin makes them easy to eat, and on rare occasions, they harbor delightful spicy surprises.

• - Recommended Preparation: Grill them in the oven and enjoy with soy sauce or salt to highlight their natural flavors.

Contribution from Local Farmers

In collaboration with Kagayaki Farm, local farmer Yuichi Kunisawa has emphasized the swiftness of farm-to-table. "With natural water flowing from the mountains, our vegetables are grown with care, allowing us to deliver the freshest produce possible." He insists that even children who typically avoid vegetables are eager to try their offerings.

Event Details

• - Start Date: April 25, 2026
• - Time: 7 AM - 10 AM (until supplies last)
• - Location: Hotel Lobby, First Floor
• - Sales Format: Self-service (unmanned sales)
• - Price: 100 yen per bag (tax included)
• - Vegetables Available: Eggplant, tomatoes, peppers, cucumbers, shishito peppers, broccoli, and others depending on the harvest.

For more information, visit the official website at Mercure Kochi Tosa Resort.

Culinary and Dining Experiences

In addition to the market, the hotel's restaurant, "Locavore," introduces a fresh dining concept inspired by local flavors. Guests can indulge in signature dishes such as "Tosa Maki," a local sushi roll filled with bonito sashimi, and pork shabu-shabu from Shimanto. It's a delightful way to explore the culinary richness of Kochi!

Conclusion

This new initiative not only enhances the guest experience at Mercure Kochi Tosa Resort & Spa, providing easy access to local agriculture, but also represents a wonderful way to celebrate and support the community. Join us for the opening of the Ryosho Market and immerse yourself in the delightful flavors of Geisei Village!

Note: Availability of vegetables may vary based on the harvest and weather conditions.