Yanagawa Private River Cruise with Local Boatman

Fukuoka Prefecture , Japan

Yanagawa Private River Cruise with Local Boatman

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About this experience

Private Yanagawa Canal Cruise – Traditional Boat Experience

Begin your exclusive journey at Shogetsu Pier, the birthplace of Yanagawa’s iconic canal cruises.
This private tour features a traditional wooden boat, manually guided by a skilled boatman using a single pole—no engine, just the peaceful sounds of water and nature.
As you drift through willow-lined canals and past white-walled storehouses, you’ll enjoy the quiet beauty of Yanagawa while hearing songs and stories that reveal the city’s rich heritage.
Departing from the city’s oldest and most historic pier, this chartered cruise offers a serene and authentic way to experience the timeless charm of Yanagawa—reserved just for you and your group.
Perfect for couples, families, or small groups seeking a private and memorable experience.

Available options

Yanagawa Private River Cruise with Local Boatman

What's included

We provide a free shuttle bus from the endpoint at Ohana to Shogetsu Punting Station for your convenience.

Detailed itinerary

Start your journey from Shogetsu Punting Station, the historic birthplace of Yanagawa’s traditional river cruises. Drift gently for about 60 minutes through the castle moat that once protected Yanagawa’s samurai town, guided by a skilled boatman who navigates the waters with a single bamboo pole.

Along the way, you’ll pass willow-lined waterways, white-walled storehouses, and charming stone bridges — each with its own story, shared by the boatman in an engaging and authentic style.

Your cruise concludes at Ohana, a beautifully preserved former residence of the Tachibana clan, who once ruled the Yanagawa Domain. Today, Ohana is a cultural landmark featuring elegant gardens, traditional architecture, and a glimpse into the refined lifestyle of Japan’s feudal lords.

This peaceful ride offers not only scenic beauty but also a deep sense of connection with Yanagawa’s history and charm.

Available languages

Guide guide

JA EN

Important information

Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap

Public transportation options are available nearby

Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller

Transportation options are wheelchair accessible

Wheelchair accessible

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

Meeting point

You will see a building immediately on your left after crossing the Rankan Bridge.
Please enter the building, and you will find the reception desk right inside.
Kindly check in there upon arrival.

About Fukuoka Prefecture

Fukuoka Prefecture, located on the northern part of Kyushu Island, is known for its vibrant city life, rich history, and delicious cuisine. With a perfect blend of modern attractions and traditional charm, it offers a unique experience for travelers.

Top Attractions

Ohori Park

A large park featuring a beautiful lake, a Japanese garden, and historical sites. It's a perfect spot for a leisurely stroll or a picnic.

Nature 1-2 hours Free (Japanese Garden: ¥400)

Fukuoka Tower

An iconic landmark offering panoramic views of the city and the sea. The tower is also home to a museum and an observation deck.

Architecture 1-2 hours ¥900 (adults), ¥700 (children)

Dazaifu Tenman-gu

A famous Shinto shrine dedicated to the god of learning. The shrine is surrounded by beautiful plum and iris gardens.

Historical/Religious 1-2 hours Free (garden entry: ¥500)

Canal City Hakata

A large shopping and entertainment complex featuring a canal, themed restaurants, and various shops. It's a popular spot for both locals and tourists.

Shopping/Entertainment 2-4 hours Free entry (costs vary by attraction)

Uminonakamichi Seaside Park

A large park with beautiful gardens, walking trails, and a variety of plants and flowers. It's a great place for a relaxing day out.

Nature 2-3 hours ¥400 (adults), ¥150 (children)

Must-Try Local Dishes

Hakata Ramen

A rich and creamy pork bone broth ramen topped with chashu (braised pork) and pickled ginger. It's one of the most famous dishes in Fukuoka.

Dinner Contains pork, gluten (noodles)

Mentaiko (Spicy Cod Roe)

Marinated and spiced cod roe, often served as a topping for rice or noodles. It's a popular delicacy from Fukuoka.

Snack/Dinner Contains fish, spicy

Motsunabe

A hot pot dish made with offal (usually beef or pork) and vegetables. It's a hearty and comforting dish, especially popular in colder months.

Dinner Contains beef or pork, gluten (soy sauce)

Yaki Gyoza (Pan-fried Dumplings)

Crispy pan-fried dumplings filled with pork and vegetables. They are often served with a side of soy-vinegar dipping sauce.

Snack/Dinner Contains pork, gluten (soy sauce)

Popular Activities

Hiking in Ohori Park and Uminonakamichi Seaside Park Cycling along the coast and through scenic areas Onsen (hot spring) bathing in nearby towns like Kurokawa Strolling through beautiful gardens and parks Exploring historic sites like Dazaifu Tenman-gu Shrine and Kushida Shrine Trying traditional crafts and workshops Swimming and sunbathing at Itoshima Beach Boat tours in Yanagawa

Best Time to Visit

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

These seasons offer pleasant weather and are ideal for outdoor activities and sightseeing. The cherry blossoms in spring and vibrant foliage in autumn add to the beauty of the region.

15-25°C 59-77°F

Practical Information

Language

Official: Japanese
Widely spoken: English (limited), Chinese (limited), Korean (limited)
English: Limited (English is not widely spoken outside of tourist areas and hotels)

Currency

Japanese Yen (JPY)

Time Zone

GMT+9

Electricity

100VV, 50/60HzHz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Very safe

Fukuoka is a very safe city with a low crime rate. Violent crime is rare, and petty crime, such as pickpocketing, is relatively uncommon. However, travelers should still take basic precautions to ensure a safe and enjoyable trip.

Important Precautions:

• Keep valuables secure and out of sight
• Be cautious of strangers offering help or services
• Use licensed taxis and agree on the fare before starting your journey

Getting there

By air

Fukuoka Airport • 5 km from city center

By train

Hakata 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

Hakata Tenjin Dazaifu Momochi

Day trips

Dazaifu

10 km from Fukuoka • Half day to full day

Dazaifu is a historic town known for its beautiful shrines, temples, and gardens. It's a peaceful retreat from the bustling city of Fukuoka.

Itoshima

30 km from Fukuoka • Full day

Itoshima is a coastal town known for its beautiful beaches, scenic views, and fresh seafood. It's a popular spot for a relaxing day trip.

Yanagawa

30 km from Fukuoka • Half day to full day

Yanagawa is a charming town known as the 'City of Water' for its network of canals. It's famous for its traditional boats, historic sites, and unagi (eel) cuisine.

Festivals

Hakata Gion Yamakasa • July (Ongoing for a month, with the main event on July 15th) Dazaifu Tenman-gu Plum Festival • February to March Fukuoka Hakata Aki Matsuri • October (First weekend)

Pro tips

Try the famous Hakata ramen and other local dishes at the city's many ramen shops and yatai (food stalls)
Visit Dazaifu Tenman-gu Shrine and other historic sites to learn about Fukuoka's rich history and culture
Explore the city's beautiful parks and gardens, such as Ohori Park and Uminonakamichi Seaside Park
Take a day trip to nearby cities and towns, such as Dazaifu, Itoshima, and Yanagawa, to experience the diverse landscapes and attractions of the region
Use the city's efficient and affordable public transport system, including the subway and buses, to get around easily and conveniently