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Nagatoro River Rafting | Review by Stanley Kuo

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    On 2026/10/17, I traveled to Nagatoro and specially arranged to ride the SL steam train. In addition to personally experiencing the unique charm of an old steam locomotive that remains full of vitality despite the passage of time, I also gained a sense of Japan's deep-rooted railway culture through the enthusiasm of the people along the route.

    After arriving in Nagatoro, I couldn't wait to head straight for the famous Nagatoro river cruise. I was lucky enough to sit behind the boatman, which gave me an excellent front-row view of the river. The current alternated between calm and rapid, and the scenery kept changing as the boat traveled downstream. Whenever we were about to enter the rapids, the boatman thoughtfully reminded the passengers to get ready and shield themselves from the splashing water. Although it inevitably caught me a little off guard, looking back, this unexpected surprise was the most unforgettable moment of my trip to Nagatoro.

Other Reviews by Stanley Kuo

  • Kitain Temple

    A famous temple of the Tendai sect, founded by Jikaku Daishi in 830. In the early Edo period (1603-1700), the famous high monk Tenkai was the chief priest of this temple.

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    My visit happened to coincide with the annual Kawagoe Festival. As soon as I entered Kitain Temple, I was struck by its peaceful atmosphere, completely different from the lively festival outside. Strolling through the temple grounds and admiring the valuable historic buildings, I felt as though I had temporarily escaped the noise of the streets and, for a moment, traveled back in time to the Edo period.

    What impressed me most during this visit was undoubtedly the famous 500 Rakan statues. The more than 500 stone statues of Buddhist disciples each have different expressions and poses. Some are laughing heartily, some appear lost in thought, and others seem to be chatting casually with the companions beside them. Every statue is carved with lifelike detail, and looking closely reveals even more of its unique character and charm.

    I wonder if you, like me, would try to find one among these more than 500 Rakan statues with whom you feel a special connection, stop for a moment, quietly admire its expression and pose, and experience that indescribable sense of familiarity

  • Kawagoe Festival

    The Kawagoe Festival is a traditional autumn festival held every year on the third Saturday and Sunday of October. Many people come from all over the world to visit, and it is the most energetic moment of the year in Kawagoe City.

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    When I originally planned my trip to Kawagoe, I only intended to visit Kawagoe Hikawa Shrine, Kawagoe Kumano Shrine, Kitain Temple, and the Kurazukuri streets to take in the nostalgic atmosphere of “Little Edo.” It wasn't until after I had finalized my itinerary that I unexpectedly discovered my visit would coincide with the annual Kawagoe Festival. Curious and excited, I decided to change the order of my original itinerary and experience this major local event in person.

    As it turned out, this last-minute change was definitely worthwhile. Although I couldn't stay until night to fully enjoy the lively festival, everything from the morning preparations and the gradually growing festive atmosphere in the streets to the ornate floats beginning their procession left a deep impression on me. It added an unexpected and unforgettable memory to what had originally been a trip focused on exploring Little Edo.

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