A Peaceful Day Trip to Yanagawa, Fukuoka

I recently took a day trip to Yanagawa City in Fukuoka Prefecture.

When people think of Fukuoka, they may first think of busy areas like Hakata or Tenjin. However, if you travel a little farther, you can find a very different kind of town.

Yanagawa is known as a “water city,” and it has many canals running through the town. The official tourism site introduces Yanagawa as a place with about 930 km of waterways and highlights river boating as one of its most famous experiences.

A Town Full of Waterways

When I looked at Yanagawa on Google Maps, I was surprised by how many canals there were. Waterways spread across the town in every direction.

When I actually arrived there, I understood why Yanagawa is so special. The canals are not just for sightseeing. They are part of the town’s character and daily atmosphere. Walking around the area felt very different from walking in a modern city.

Visiting Mihashira Shrine

My first stop was Mihashira Shrine.

It was a calm and beautiful place, and it gave me a chance to feel the history of Yanagawa. The shrine has a quiet atmosphere, and it was a nice place to slow down and enjoy the morning.

Address	323-1 Mitsuhashimachitakahatake, Yanagawa City, Fukuoka, 832-0826
Website	https://mihashirajinja.org/

Please check the official website and social media accounts for the latest information.

Starting the River Boat Ride

After that, I went to the boarding area for the river boat ride.

If you visit Yanagawa, I think this is one of the best things to do. The official tourism site also presents river rafting and boat tours as one of the main ways to experience the town.

During the ride, the boat moved slowly through the canals, passing under small bridges and alongside trees and traditional scenery. It felt peaceful and relaxing. Instead of simply moving from one place to another, it felt like I was enjoying the town itself.

Views from the Boat

The river ride gave me many chances to take photos.

From the boat, I could see Yanagawa from a completely different angle. The water felt close, the bridges looked lower, and the town seemed softer and quieter from the canal. It was a gentle and memorable experience.

Getting Off Near Ohana

I got off the boat near Ohana.

The area around Ohana had a very nice atmosphere. It was lively enough for visitors to enjoy, but still calm and comfortable. It felt like the kind of place where you want to walk slowly and take your time.

Lunch at Wakamatsuya

For lunch, I went to Wakamatsuya, a well-known restaurant in Yanagawa.

I ordered unagi seiro-mushi, which is steamed eel served over rice. This dish is one of Yanagawa’s best-known local foods, and the tourism site also introduces Yanagawa as a place where visitors can enjoy its local food culture.

The meal was excellent. The eel was soft and rich, and the rice had a deep, savory flavor. It was the kind of meal that makes your trip feel even more special.

If you are planning a visit, the Yanagawa City Official Travel Site is also a helpful place to check for sightseeing information, maps, and local travel ideas before your trip.

Information

Address	26, Okinohata-machi, Yanagawa-shi, Fukuoka Prefecture, 832-0065
Website	https://wakamatuya.com/english/

Please check the official website and social media accounts for the latest information.

A Great Day Trip from Fukuoka

One of the nice things about Fukuoka is that you can leave the city for just one day and experience a place with a completely different atmosphere.

Yanagawa offers beautiful canals, traditional scenery, relaxing boat rides, and delicious local food. If you are looking for a day trip from Fukuoka, I think Yanagawa is a wonderful choice.

About the Yanagawa City Official Travel Site

Address	35 Okihata-cho, Yanagawa City, Fukuoka Prefecture 832-0065
TEL	0944-74-0891 (Tourist Information Center)
E-mail	[email protected]
Website	https://www.yanagawa-net.com/en/

Please check the official website and social media accounts for the latest information.