Yanagawa River Boating Cruise Experience in Fukuoka
Overview
Take a scenic cruise down the historical waterways of Yanagawa City, known as the “Venice of Kyushu.” See vestiges of its past as you ride a donko-bune and admire the riverside scenery, all while being serenaded by your boatman.
Highlights
- Cruise along the tree-lined, ancient waterways of Yanagawa City, dubbed the “Venice of Kyushu”
- Ride an old-school, gondola-like boat called ‘donko-bune’
- Listen to your boatman’s serenade of traditional folk songs and nursery rhymes
- Admire nostalgic, traditional houses and storefronts — vestiges of Yanagawa City’s prosperous past
Key Information
Important Information
• For your safety, please refrain from moving around while on the boat • This is a group experience, you will be on a boat with other tourists • Cruise departs even on rainy days; free raincoat rentals will be provided • Kotatsu and quilts will be provided for winter departures (Dec–Feb) • Courtesy shuttle bus is available at the end point to take you back to the boarding area, but it does not have a set schedule; if you need this service, please check the on-site operating hours of the bus when you board the boat Activity rules • For safety reasons, infants and young children are not recommended to join this tour • Your booking is only valid on your designated activity date • Free admission for children aged under 5 (must not occupy a seat) • If you can't arrive at the boat boarding location on time, you may be regarded as forfeiting the tour, and reschedule requests will be denied Redemption 1: A voucher will be sent to your email after booking is confirmed 2: The boat will depart within 30 mins of the scheduled time; please arrive 10 mins before the scheduled time and follow the staff's instructions (actual departure time is subject to on-site arrangements) 3: Present your voucher get on the boat
Description
Take a slow, romantic voyage along the scenic waterways of “the Venice of Kyushu” — Yanagawa City in Fukuoka Prefecture. This relaxing boat ride transports you to Yanagawa’s ancient days as a prosperous castle town, right in the middle of the city!
Experience the best way to explore Yanagawa, and ride a gondola-like traditional boat called donko-bune. As you cruise along the canals, you’ll see remnants of the city’s past — storehouses, a bridge, old shops, and other traditional structures.
Savor this wistful scenery, and take in the view of verdant trees flanking Yanagawa’s waters. With such a tranquil setting, you’ll instantly relax and feel calm during the journey — like you’re in a painting or in a romantic movie.
Clad in traditional wear and a straw hat, your friendly boatman will set the music to your movie-like river tour, as he joyfully sings traditional folk songs and nursery rhymes penned by Yanagawa’s famous poet, Hakushu Kitahara. He’ll also tell you about the impressive history of Yanagawa.
Don’t miss this charming experience when you’re in Yanagawa — it’s a must for everybody!
