Yanagawa: A Castle Town Water Village Known for Canal Boating and Unaju Eel

Yanagawa: A Water Village Castle Town Created by Canals

Yanagawa City, Fukuoka Prefecture, is the castle town of the Yanagawa domain governed by Tanaka Yoshimasa and Tachibana Muneshige in the Edo period. The "hori-wari (artificial waterways)" running in all directions through the city extend approximately 930 kilometers in total length — Japan's largest waterway network. "Kawakudari (canal boating)" slowly descending these waterways in "donko boats" is the standard Yanagawa tourism activity.

Pleasures of Canal Boating

Canal boating takes approximately 70 minutes. Local boatmen navigate the boat with a pole while guiding you through Yanagawa's streets. Waterside willows, bridges, and old townscape scenery can be enjoyed while savoring seasonal waterside atmosphere. Enjoyable with spring cherry blossoms and early summer hydrangeas, it is a popular course.

Yanagawa Eel

Yanagawa's specialty is eel kabayaki, with many eel specialty restaurants in the city. In particular, "eel seiro mushi (steamed eel)" is Yanagawa's unique style, with the fluffy steamed eel rice being exceptional.

Birthplace of Kitahara Hakushu

Yanagawa is the birthplace of poet Kitahara Hakushu (1885–1942). The Kitahara Hakushu Memorial Museum allows learning about Hakushu's poetry and life.

Access

Nearest station is Nishitetsu Tenjin Omuta Line "Nishitetsu Yanagawa Station." Approximately 40 minutes by limited express from Fukuoka Tenjin. From JR Hakata Station, accessible by train plus bus or highway bus.