In winter, Yanagawa is filled with the quiet atmosphere of ducks and other waterfowl, creating a seasonal sight on the water. Kotatsu heaters are provided on the donko boats, allowing you to enjoy a leisurely winter boat trip.
Event period: Early December
This is a festival to commemorate the Akutagawa Prize-winning author Ken Hase, born in Yanagawa. A tofu-shaped literary monument was erected in honor of the individual, who loved tofu, and boiled tofu is served after the ceremony.
Event period: Mid to late January
This festival, known nationwide as “Dondoyaki” or “Sagicho”, is held to burn New Year’s decorations such as shimenawa, and pray for good health. Bamboo pillars are made and straw is woven around them to create a tower.
Event period: Early February
The bean-throwing ceremony is held to drive away evil spirits and to pray for good health. Prizes are hidden inside the beans, and the event is a popular one every year.
Event period: January 25th
This event is held to celebrate Hakushu’s birthday on January 25th, and begins with a parade in front of Hakushu’s birthplace, accompanied by the drum and fife corps of his alma mater, Yatome Elementary School. The parade ends at Shihikien, where a birthday ceremony is held by the Hakushu Association.
Event period: Varies by year
Not only will there be a large selection of Yanagawa’s specialty products, but there will also be workshops and stage events where you can experience the traditional culture of the region, making this an event packed with the charm of Yanagawa.
Event period: Mid to late February
“Mizuochi” refers to the draining of the water from the moat, and is a traditional event that has been carried out since the feudal era. The water is drained by temporarily blocking the sluice gates, the moat is cleaned, and it is disinfected by sunlight, making it a sight that can only be seen at this time of year.
The plum blossoms reach their best viewing time from mid-February to early March every year. The sight of white and pink flowers blooming in abundance captivates all visitors.
In 1290, a branch of the Hiyoshi Shrine in Sakamoto, Omi Province, was transferred here to serve as the guardian deity. Also known as “Sanno-san,” it was revered by Lord Tanaka Yoshimasa and Lord Tachibana Muneshige, and the current shrine was rebuilt in 1699 during the reign of Lord Tachibana Kagetora. If you are interested in collecting temple stamps, please see the map.
The “Kotatsu Boat” is a popular winter experience on the Yanagawa River Cruise, where you can enjoy the beautiful scenery of the water town of Yanagawa while sitting in a kotatsu.
This was the residence of the feudal lord Tachibana family, who ruled the Yanagawa domain with 110,000 koku of rice throughout the Edo period. The entire site, approximately 23,000 square meters, has been designated a national scenic spot, the Tachibana Garden, and today the residence and garden, Shotoen, built in 1910 by Count Kanji, the 14th head of the Tachibana family, remain exactly as they were 100 years ago.
Enjoy a Relaxing and Luxurious Experience
River Rafting in the Water Town of Yanagawa
