Kitayama River Rafting
nature
Kitayama River Rafting
北山川筏下り
Overview
The village of Kitayama was a logging center from the Edo period (1603–1868) through to the mid-twentieth century.
Log rafting on the Kitayama River revives a method used from the Edo period through the mid-20th century, when timber from this area was floated downstream to Shingu for sale. Logs were lashed into long rafts and navigated by villagers along the Kitayama and Kumano rivers. The practice ended around 1965 when a dam cut off part of the route. Today, modern rafts of around 30 meters carry visitors along a peaceful 5.5-kilometer stretch of river. You stand on choppier sections while holding handrails and can sit during calmer stretches. The rafts are returned by crane and truck after each run.
Practical info
- Japanese name
- 北山川筏下り
- Nearest station
- Yoshino Station (25 min bus)
- Payment
- Cards accepted
- Reservations
- Book through the rafting operator at least 3 days ahead. Traditional log raft rides run seasonally (roughly May through September). Weather-dependent.
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