Yanagawa, also known as the city of water, is located in the south of Fukuoka Prefecture. Here you’ll find old-world streetscapes that still keep the lattice-like waterways from the Edo period. When you’re here, the absolute must-see is the inter-city river boating experience. No matter what season, you’re guaranteed for a fun and relaxing time as the boat captain serenades and shares stories around the area.
Today there are 4 different boat servicers offering this experience. Each one of them keeps a dock within walking distance of Nishitetsu Yanagawa Station and offers a boat ride through the heart of Yanagawa’s best sightseeing. The total time needed is about 70 minutes. Along the way you can boat through the local daily lives or people here, glimpse the waterfront merchants, the Namikura red brick warehouse streetscape, Namako Kabe known for its striking black and white walls, all while pass through the green weeping willows and seasonal blooms as they flower along the waterways.
Enjoy the intrigue of the captain as he uses a pole to steer and the sheer delight of interesting conversation before you’re pulled into dock. Just next to the dock you’ll find a number of shops selling steamed eel, a special dish around Yanagawa. To top it off, there are plenty of sights to walk around like Yanagawa Tachibana-tei Ohana, Kitahara Hakushu’s Birthplace and Memorial Hall, and more. Enjoy a leisurely stroll through a time in history.
Highlights
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Boat down the river from a dock just steps from the train station.
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The same town is home to a number of steamed eel box dishes to try.
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Hometown of tanka poet Hakushu Kitahara and the subsequent Hakushu Kitahara Birthplace and Memorial Museum.
