River rafting
Yanagawa River Cruise (Canal Tour) brings to life the poetic atmosphere of the water town. The canals of Yanagawa are the result of the wisdom and efforts of the people who have lived in harmony with the water. Try to feel the passion of our ancestors who overcame unfavorable circumstances and built a prosperous life by going down the river (canal tour).

“River boating (canal tours) ” was a part of Yanagawa life
The waterways where you can go river rafting (around the moats) are called “Horiwari,” and this scenery has been nurtured by the wisdom and history of the people of Yanagawa.
Yanagawa was once located in the Ariake Sea, and has a unique topography that has been shaped little by little by our ancestors since the Yayoi period. By digging the soil and drawing in water, land was created and people secured a place to live. They collected rainwater in the canals and used it for drinking water and agricultural water. In addition, the canals were an essential means of transportation, so river boating (canal tours) was not just a tourist attraction, but a part of people’s lives that was deeply connected to their daily lives.
The boatman’s skill and heartfelt narration
The appeal of river boating (canal tours) is not just the beautiful scenery. The boatman’s skillful handling of the pole and the lively stories and songs also add to the atmosphere. By listening to the boatman’s stories, you can learn more about Yanagawa’s history, culture, and the lives of the people.

How to ride the boat
There are seven companies that offer river boat trips (canal tours) in Yanagawa City, and each boat company has a different boarding point and route, so please check the map before boarding. Each boatman will be a storyteller about history and culture, making the boat trip even more enjoyable. Experience the hospitality of Yanagawa and spend an elegant time on the river boat.
course
Regular river boat course
The course starts near Yanagawa Station and goes to the main tourist spot area (Okinawa-Hata and Onna-Hana area).
Boat pier |
There are four locations within a 5-10 minute walk from Nishitetsu Yanagawa Station.
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Travel time |
Approximately 60 minutes course
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Fee |
Adults (junior high school students and above): 1,800 yen to 2,000 yen Children: 900 yen to 1,000 yen
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Short tour course
This is a short course that only covers the Okinohata area, the main tourist spot.
Boat pier |
Please see the boarding map .
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Travel time |
Approximately 30 to 40 minutes course
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Fee |
Adults (junior high school students and above): 1,000 yen to 2,000 yen Children: from 500 yen
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Departure time
Shared boats will depart once a certain number of passengers have been attracted.
For group charter boats, we will accommodate your desired time, so please make your reservation in advance.
*Some courses will be shortened from mid- to late February due to the “water-removal period.”
Opening times
*This varies depending on the shipping company, so please check the information for each shipping company.
Boarding area map
Please check the map before boarding as the boarding point and tour course vary depending on the shipping company.