One of Japan's "100 Hidden Gems"! The Last Pristine River in Kochi — Shimanto River, Beautiful Like a Fairyland

Reported and photographed by Chen Hanyin / Japan

Want to see a different side of Japan? Embark on a journey to Shikoku. The moment you step out of Kochi Ryoma Airport, even the air feels different. Along the way, you’ll pass traditional Japanese low-rise houses, endless emerald-green farmland, and verdant mountains on both sides, until you finally arrive at the Shimanto River — one of Japan’s “100 Hidden Gems.” Here, you can experience the tranquility and serenity this pristine land offers.

▲ One of Japan’s 100 Hidden Gems lies along the Shimanto River in Kochi.

▲ No large dams or breakwaters have been built here, preserving the river’s most natural state.

At 196 kilometers long, the Shimanto River is the second-largest in Kochi Prefecture. Because no major dams or breakwaters have been constructed, it’s earned the nickname “Japan’s Last Clear Stream.” Visitors can take a ride on a local yakata-bune (traditional Japanese houseboat), enjoy a Japanese bento lunch made with fresh local ingredients while on the boat. The exquisite bento includes sweetfish caught from the Shimanto River, and even the nori (seaweed) paste is a local specialty — allowing guests to savor the authentic flavors of the region.

▲ A luxurious Japanese lunch must be reserved in advance, with prices ranging from 1,080 to 2,500 yen.

▲ The interior of the yakata-bune is very comfortable and stable, rarely rocking.

The wooden yakata-bune is shaped like a small house floating on the water, with windows that can be opened or closed freely — rain won’t be a problem. On drizzly days, the scenery takes on a dreamy, hazy beauty. Locals fondly call it the “swimming house.” The riverbanks are rich in nature, and there are spots where you can step off the boat and enjoy a walk. However, the areas without guardrails require extra caution due to the risk of slipping, especially since algae often makes the rocks slippery. Each year, there are always a few tourists who get minor injuries.

▲ The sunken bridges are built in the most natural way, coexisting peacefully with nature.

▲ Traditional small boats used by locals for shrimp fishing.

The Japanese countryside has an indescribable charm. The roughly 40-minute boat ride allows travelers to find inner peace amid the sounds of insects and birds. This untouched land preserves the most pristine mountain and river views — fish swim freely in the water, eagles circle in the sky, and this beautiful scene is one of Kochi’s greatest treasures.

▲ Windows can be opened or closed freely, so there’s no fear of getting wet in the rain.

“Shimanto River Yakata-Bune — Midori (Green)”
Address: 1446 Suri, Samizo, Shimanto City, Kochi
Phone: 0880-38-2000
Fees: Adults (12 and above) 2,000 yen; Children (ages 6–11) 1,000 yen