🗺️ Yanagawa River Cruising柳川川下り

Located in the southern part of Fukuoka Prefecture, Yanagawa is widely known as the "Water Town." The city is filled with a network of moats that were dug during the Edo period. One of the most interesting activities here is taking a small boat called "DONKO (どんこ)" to enjoy "boating and drifting" through the city. While listening to the boatman’s explanations and songs, you can appreciate the beautiful scenery that changes with the seasons and enjoy a leisurely time. Currently, there are four companies operating the boating and drifting service. The boarding locations are within walking distance from Nishitetsu Yanagawa Station, and the boats head towards the central sightseeing area. The trip takes about 70 minutes. Along the way, you will pass by "waterfront shops," the red-brick warehouse "Namikura," the black-and-white checkered "Ikko Wall," and even glide past residential homes, with weeping willows and blooming flowers lining the riverbanks. Enjoy a comfortable boat ride. As you watch the boatman skillfully maneuver the oar and engage in pleasant conversation, you will soon find yourself at the disembarkation point. Near the disembarkation area, there are shops where you can taste Yanagawa's specialty, "steamed eel." Additionally, there are sightseeing spots within walking distance, such as "The Residence of the Yanagawa Han Lord Tachibana, Ohan" and "Kitahara Hakushu's Birthplace and Memorial Museum." You can feel the historical atmosphere while strolling through the area.

You can take the DONKO small boat for rafting near the station. There are several shops on the street where you can taste the specialty "steamed eel." The "Kitahara Hakushu Birthplace and Memorial Museum," widely known as the hometown of Kitahara Hakushu, is also located here.