The Hijikawa is a wide river that flows through the middle of Ozu. This beautiful waterway is deeply engrained in the psyche of the people living there. There are many options for making the most of the river, from rides on the elegant pleasure boats, to watching the various bird life that makes the river its home.
Ozu Castle Boat Tour
In the past, the only way to cross the Hiji River was by boat, but these ferries were retired in 1913 when a bridge was built over the river. In 1980, the Hijikawa boats were revived so that people could enjoy this old custom again. Nowadays the main purpose of this river cruise is to admire the view of Furoan, the little rustic hut built on stilts as part of the Garyu Sanso villa.
Times: May 1 to 26; September 21 to 29
Inquiries: Ozu Tourist Information Centre
- Tel: 0893-57-6655
Ozu Ukai Cormorant Fishing
Ukai is a traditional method of catching river fish using cormorants. Ozu ukai is one of the three major places in Japan where this splendid water show can still be seen.
Visitors watch the cormorants catching fish from a roofed pleasure boat on the Hiji River. A dinner of local cuisine is served. Watching the cormorant master throwing the fish into his boat is a sight to behold. Ukai is held at night, so you can enjoy the performance with a backdrop of the beautiful scenery around the river, or with the dramatic torchlight. The cormorants are treated as family by the fishermen, and they typically live longer, healthier lives than cormorants in the wild.
Times: Night-time, June 1 to September 20
Inquiries: Ozu Tourist Information Centre
- Tel: 0893-57-6655
Reserve a Private Boat for a Full Ozu Experience in Hiji River Cruise
You can enjoy a private boat tour and enjoy a serene cruise along the Hiji River. Experience the stunning views of Garyu Sanso and Ozu Castle from a unique river perspective. Sit back, relax, and enjoy light refreshments as your guide shares insights about the area during your peaceful journey.
Private Boat Rates:
- Small boat (up to 10 people): ¥22,000
- Large boat (up to 18 people): ¥35,200
Inquiries: Ozu Tourist Information Centre
- Tel: 0893-57-6655
- Mail: ozu_tourist_info@kita-m.com
Sightseeing may be canceled if the river is in spate, even if the weather is fine.
Names in Japanese 肱川 — hijikawa — Hiji River 鵜飼 — ukai — cormorant fishing
