Yanagawa Great Wisteria and Traditional Canal Boat Experience

Fukuoka , Japan

Yanagawa Great Wisteria and Traditional Canal Boat Experience

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About this experience

Discover the hidden gems of Fukuoka on this enchanting day tour to Yanagawa!

Marvel at the breathtaking purple cascades of one of Japan's most impressive wisteria trellises, enjoy a ride along Yanagawa canals and conclude your journey with a visit to Mori no Kura, where you'll sample a variety of premium local sake.

Spectacular Wisteria
Experience one of Japan's most magnificent wisteria trellises at Nakayama Ofuji that about 300 years old and designated as a natural monument of Fukuoka. Creating a mesmerizing purple canopy, showcase the best of spring in Kyushu.

Unique River Culture
Enjoy a traditional river cruise in Yanagawa, known as the "Venice of Kyushu", learn about local history and culture from skilled boatmen. Enjoy a tranquil 50-minute ride along Yanagawa's picturesque canals.

Sake Tasting
The tour concludes with a sake tasting session at Mori no Kura. In a special space called "Mori no Hanare," you will have the opportunity to sample various types of Japanese sake.

Available options

Yanagawa Great Wisteria and Traditional Canal Boat Experience

Pickup included

What's included

English-speaking Guide

Highway and Parking Fee

Japanese Sake Tasting Experience

Yanagawa Canal Boat Experience

Lunch

Round-trip private transportation

Detailed itinerary

Nakayama Ofuji (Great Wisteria) is a magnificent 300-year-old wisteria trellis located at Nakayama Kumano Shrine in Yanagawa City. This shrine becomes a popular destination during the wisteria season, typically from mid to late April. Particularly popular for photography and illumination at night during the wisteria festival, offering a romantic and magical atmosphere. This stunning natural monument, designated by Fukuoka Prefecture, spans approximately 1,155 square meters (350 tsubo) and creates a breathtaking purple canopy when in full bloom.

The wisteria's history dates back to the Edo period when a local liquor store owner named "Man" brought wisteria seeds from Noda, Osaka, and planted them. Over the centuries, it has grown into one of Japan's most impressive wisteria displays, attracting visitors from far and wide.

Enjoy a tranquil 50-minute ride along Yanagawa's picturesque canals and try Japanese Eel Lunch at Kamenoi Hotel Yanagawa.

Yanagawa Canal Boat is a charming experience that allows visitors to explore the city's extensive network of canals, earning Yanagawa the nickname "Venice of Kyushu". The cruise takes place on traditional flat-bottomed boats called "donko-bune," which are skillfully navigated by boatmen using long poles. You can enjoy views of weeping willows, seasonal flowers, and traditional buildings along the canals.

Conclude your journey with a visit to Mori no Kura, where you'll sample a variety of premium local sake.

Mori no Hanare is located on the premises of Mori no kura, a sake brewery in Kurume City. In addition to enjoying sake while gazing at the Japanese garden, visitors can purchase standard sake, seasonal sake, and sake only available at Mori no Hanare.

What's not included

Meals and beverages (unless specified)

Personal expenses (e.g., souvenirs, shopping)

Available languages

Guide guide

Important information

Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

This is a private tour, only your group will participate.

Depending on the number of participants, it may be a Taxi or Hiace Mini-van.

Infants under 3 years old are FREE (No seat and meal arrangement).

Pick up and drop off place could be arranged according to your convenience (Fukuoka City Hotel area).

Estimated pick-up time is 8:00 AM, and the tour duration will be 8 hours 30 minutes. An additional charge will be applied if you want to extend the tour.

We kindly request that you inform us in advance of any food allergies or dietary restrictions you may have, as lunch will be provided during this tour.

Schedule stops and timing are subject to change with or without notice. In case of traffic congestion or any other reasons that affect the tour schedule, the staying time at each sightseeing spot will be shortened and arrival time will be delayed.

Important Note: The remaining hours of the itinerary will be allotted for the travel time from pick up until drop off.

About Fukuoka

Fukuoka is a vibrant coastal city in southern Japan known for its rich history, delicious cuisine, and warm climate. As the largest city in Kyushu, it offers a perfect blend of traditional culture and modern urban living, making it a must-visit destination for travelers seeking an authentic Japanese experience.

Top Attractions

Ohori Park

A large, beautiful park featuring a lake, gardens, and historic sites. It's a perfect spot for relaxation and outdoor activities.

Nature 1-2 hours Free (some attractions may have fees)

Fukuoka Castle Ruins

The ruins of a historic castle that played a significant role in Japanese history. The site offers beautiful views and a glimpse into the past.

Historical 1-2 hours Free

Kushida Shrine

A historic Shinto shrine known for its vibrant festivals and beautiful architecture. It's a significant cultural and religious site.

Religious 30-60 minutes Free

Canal City Hakata

A large shopping and entertainment complex featuring a canal, theaters, and a wide variety of shops and restaurants.

Shopping/Entertainment 1-3 hours Free to enter (costs vary for shops and restaurants)

Fukuoka Tower

A iconic tower offering panoramic views of the city and the sea. It's a great spot for photography and sightseeing.

Architecture 1-2 hours Moderate (entry fee for observation deck and restaurant)

Must-Try Local Dishes

Hakata Ramen

A type of ramen featuring a rich, creamy tonkotsu (pork bone) broth, thin noodles, and toppings like chashu (braised pork) and green onions.

Dinner Contains pork, gluten (noodles and broth)

Mentaiko

Spicy cod roe, often served as a topping for rice or noodles, or as a side dish.

Snack/Dinner Contains fish, gluten (if served with rice or noodles)

Motsunabe

A hot pot dish featuring offal, typically beef or pork, cooked in a savory broth with vegetables and tofu.

Dinner Contains meat, gluten (if served with noodles or dipping sauce)

Yaki Toro

Grilled chicken skewers, often seasoned with salt or soy sauce, and served with a side of grated daikon radish.

Dinner Contains chicken, gluten (if seasoned with soy sauce)

Popular Activities

Hiking in nearby mountains and parks Water sports at nearby beaches and waterways Onsen (hot spring) bathing Strolling through parks and gardens Visiting temples, shrines, and historic sites Attending local festivals and events Boat rides on the canals of Yanagawa Swimming and water sports at nearby beaches

Best Time to Visit

Spring (March to May) and Autumn (September to November)

These seasons offer pleasant weather, ideal for outdoor activities and sightseeing. Spring brings beautiful cherry blossoms, while autumn features vibrant fall foliage.

15°C to 25°C 59°F to 77°F

Practical Information

Language

Official: Japanese
Widely spoken: English (limited), Chinese (limited), Korean (limited)
English: Limited

Currency

Japanese Yen (JPY)

Time Zone

JST (UTC+9)

Electricity

100VV, 50/60HzHz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Very safe

Fukuoka is generally a very safe city with low crime rates. However, as with any destination, it's important to take precautions to ensure a safe and enjoyable trip.

Important Precautions:

• Be aware of your surroundings and keep valuables secure
• Use licensed taxis and tour guides
• Be cautious when using ATMs and avoid sharing your PIN

Getting there

By air

Fukuoka Airport • 4.5 km from city center

By train

Hakata Station, Fukuoka Station

By bus

Hakata Bus Terminal, Tenjin Bus Center

Getting around

Public transport

The subway system is efficient, clean, and easy to navigate. It consists of three lines: Kūkō Line, Hakozaki Line, and Nanakuma Line.

Taxis

Available • Apps: JapanTaxi, DiDi

Rentals

Car, Bike, Scooter

Neighborhoods

Tenjin Nakasu Hakata Dazaifu

Day trips

Dazaifu

10 km from Fukuoka • Half day to full day

A historic town known for its temples, shrines, and beautiful gardens. It offers a peaceful and culturally rich experience.

Yanagawa

30 km from Fukuoka • Full day

A picturesque town known as the 'City of Waterways' for its network of canals. It offers a unique and charming experience with its historic houses, boat rides, and local specialties.

Beppu

120 km from Fukuoka • Full day to overnight

A popular hot spring resort town known for its numerous hot springs, or 'hells' (jigoku), and scenic beauty. It offers a relaxing and rejuvenating experience.

Festivals

Hakata Gion Yamakasa Festival • July 1-15 (main events on July 15) Hakata Dontaku Festival • Early May (typically the first Sunday and the following day) Fukuoka Hakata Matsuri • October 15-18

Pro tips

Use an IC card, such as Suica or Icoca, for convenient and discounted public transportation
Try local specialties, such as Hakata ramen, mentsuyaki, and yakitori, at yatai (food stalls) or local restaurants
Visit popular attractions, such as Ohori Park and Fukuoka Castle Ruins, during the early morning or late afternoon to avoid crowds
Explore the city's vibrant neighborhoods, such as Tenjin, Nakasu, and Hakata, for shopping, dining, and entertainment options
Attend local festivals and events, such as the Hakata Gion Yamakasa Festival and the Hakata Dontaku Festival, for a unique and memorable experience