The stunning canal on Nakashima Island in Kyoto bathed in golden sunset light with cherry blossoms along the riverbank

Text and photos byKavanagh

Fushimi, known for its sake brewing, is a famous scenic spot in Kyoto. The well-known Fushimi Canal runs through it. Officially called the “Uji River Branch Canal,” it is an artificial waterway connecting the Uji River and the Kamo River. The canal was first dug in 1594, the third year of the Bunroku era, when Toyotomi Hideyoshi was constructing Fushimi Castle. To transport materials needed for the castle’s construction, Fushimi Port and the “Uji River Branch Canal” were established. Later, many rice storehouses and sake breweries were built along the banks, making it a crucial water transport facility during the Edo period. Back in school, our class once visited Nakashima Island in Fushimi to tour the “Ogura Katsura Memorial Hall” and take a ride on a tenma boat along the canal, enjoying the scenic views along the river. At that time, I saw posters of Fushimi’s spring scenery during the cherry blossom season and silently resolved that if I ever had the chance, I would come here to see the blossoms.

That day, we first went to Sekigahara Dike. After having a picnic, we took the Keihan train back toward central Kyoto. I suggested we take a walk around Nakashima Island, which is also on the Keihan line. Most people agreed, but two classmates wanted to save 260 yen and decided to head straight back to their dorm. As someone who never forces others, I told them that given the rare opportunity to see cherry blossoms in Kyoto, it was really not worth saving just 260 yen. If they were really that concerned about money, I said I’d cover it for them (after all, it’s only 520 yen for the two of them...). In the end, they were moved by my sincerity and decided to join me on the trip to Nakashima Island...
Date of visit: 2014.04.06

The Keihan train glides through the cherry blossoms...

The Fushimi Canal, lined with willow trees on both sides, is also beautiful in summer~

The “Chōken Temple” with its dragon gate.

Sake breweries along the canal.

As the sun sets, the light takes on a magical quality.....

Unlike the typically crowded cherry blossom spots, this place is very peaceful—with almost no outside visitors besides us.

I really envy the people who live here—just open your window and you’re greeted with such beauty.

Shop owners in the shopping street expressed anger over the consumption tax hike.

Tell me, was the view of Nakashima Island at dusk that day worth 260 yen?

Transportation:

Get off at Keihan Railway’s “Nakashima Island” Station and walk 5 minutes.
 

Kavanagh @ Kyoto, freely staying.