Yanagawa River Cruise

柳川の川下り

In Yanagawa, visitors ride flat boats called donko-bune through the town's many canals. A boatman pushes the boat with a pole and gives a lively guide along the way, and the boat passes under low sluice gates. In winter, the boats have a kotatsu (a heated table with a cover) to keep passengers warm. In summer, from mid-July to early October, there are also evening canal tours.

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Visitor information

Opening hours

Boats run from 9am to sunset.

Admission

Junior high school students and older: 1,500–1,650 yen; children: 800–830 yen (varies by operator).

Getting there

About 50 minutes by express train from Nishitetsu Fukuoka (Tenjin) Station to Nishitetsu Yanagawa Station.

The boarding points are about 5–10 minutes on foot from Nishitetsu Yanagawa Station.

Time needed

A cruise takes about 60 to 70 minutes.

Hours and fees can change. Please check the official website before you go.

Good to know

Individuals can board without a reservation; groups should contact the operator in advance. Advance reservations are advised.
In winter, the boats have a kotatsu with a charcoal brazier.
During the February water-draining period (Mizu-ochi), cruises use a shorter course.

Tips for Muslim visitors

The standard canal boat course takes about 60 minutes, and short courses take about 30 to 40 minutes.
Shared boats leave once about 10 passengers have gathered, so booking ahead is recommended.
Natural sites may have few facilities. Bring water, a travel prayer mat and a qibla app, and check the weather; mountains and lakes can be much colder than the city.
Restrooms for wudu can be far apart on trails. Many Muslim travellers carry a small water bottle for wudu.
Plan your visit around prayer times. Below are today's prayer times for Fukuoka and the verified places to pray nearby.
Food stalls and shops near popular sights usually do not have halal certification. Check the ingredients, or choose from the verified places on this site.