Shimanto River is perfect for a family trip! 13 sightseeing & experience spots everyone can enjoy

In Shimanto City, where the nationally renowned clear stream Shimanto River flows, there are many experiential spots where you can fully enjoy nature. This time, for those who know of the Shimanto River but aren’t sure exactly what fun it offers, we introduce the charm of Shimanto City's experiential sightseeing spots. Please use this as a reference for exploring Kochi.

1. Sightseeing on the Shimanto River boasts an abundance of water activities

When visiting the Shimanto River for sightseeing during the hot summer season, enjoy water activities without hesitation. The Shimanto River is so beautifully clear that you can see the riverbed and even the fish swimming below. Bring along a snorkel and underwater goggles and swim while peering beneath the surface—so absorbed that you might forget the passage of time.

An online water play map is available, so it’s recommended to check that out while strolling through town. In particular, areas such as Sada, the closest to the city center, and Isaihira, which is popular among students, are bustling with families with children.

2. Rafting: A fun group trip down the river

If you truly want to enjoy the clear waters of the Shimanto River, rafting is highly recommended. Board a boat with your group and travel down the clear waters of the Shimanto River. In the gentle stretches, enjoy the surrounding scenery, and in the rapids, unite to overcome the rough waves of the Shimanto River, savoring the thrill and sense of achievement to the fullest.

3. Canoeing: No worries, because there's an instructor

Gliding down the clear stream by canoe while admiring the abundant natural scenery of the Shimanto River will soothe your soul with a touch of the great outdoors that you don’t experience in everyday life. Even if you’re new to canoeing, instructors will patiently teach you step-by-step, so you’ll be paddling in no time. The duration is approximately three hours, and children are welcome to join.

There are three types of canoes: the one-person “kayak”, the two-person “tandem kayak”, and the three-person “Canadian canoe”. It’s perfect whether you ride with your whole family or enjoy an exciting outing with friends. It is recommended as an activity from spring through summer.

4. Camping: Easy and fun for beginners

When it comes to the Shimanto River, it’s not only the river that’s attractive but also the lush green surrounding mountains. The “Shimanto River Campground”, where you can camp for free, is equipped with water supply facilities and portable toilets, allowing even camping beginners to enjoy the outdoors comfortably.

At “Camp Village Kawarakko”, there are several campsites categorized by level—from beginner to advanced—which is a great advantage. You can park your car right next to the tent setup area, making it very convenient if you bring your own camping gear.

5. Wheelchair-accessible, scheduled "Yakatabune" boat rides

Yakatabune cruising is perfect for fully enjoying the nature of the Shimanto River. On the Shimanto River, there is a scheduled service departing from “Misato Boarding Place”, with a course that passes under the Sanri Sinking Bridge. Moreover, the yakatabune is accessible for wheelchairs. With proper timing, you can even ride without a same-day reservation.

The Sanri Sinking Bridge is also famous as a filming location for dramas, so you might already be familiar with it. The bridge does not have handrails on either side, making it quite a thrilling structure.

6. River Fisherman Experience: Learn traditional fishing methods

Would you like to try traditional fishing methods on the Shimanto River? At Shimanto Gakusha, you can enjoy river fishing by boarding a wooden boat under the guidance of a river fisherman. After the experience, not only can you immediately savor the shrimp and fish you caught, but you can also take them home as souvenirs. For creating memorable summer vacation experiences, be sure to try it out with your children.

7. Nametoko Valley Canyoning: One of the best natural water slides in the country

Canyoning is an activity in which you slide down rocky terrain using your body. It is truly a natural waterslide. The Suberuyukaikyo Canyoning on the Shimanto River is said to boast a total length of 40 meters, making it one of the largest courses in the nation. It is available for challenge from upper elementary school students, so why not try it with the whole family.

However, since the rocky terrain can yield faster speeds than expected when sliding, be sure to learn the proper sliding technique from an instructor. Please be careful to avoid injuries.

8. Kita no Kawazawa Walk: A fun activity to enjoy with your dad or grandpa

On the tributary "Kita no Kawa" of the Shimanto River, you can experience a stream walk. It is said to be enjoyable for everyone from small children to the elderly, making it a popular outing for families on holidays. Since the water is clear, you can clearly see the fish swimming in the river, and you can even enjoy activities such as crab catching.

All the equipment needed for the stream walk can be rented, so it’s a plus that you can go hands-free. Don’t miss the limited summer experience tour!

9. Enjoy learning about shrimp habits while taking part in the "Traditional River Shrimp Fishing" course

Since ancient times, the Shimanto River has had a traditional fishing method using a net called "Tamaebi." River fishermen will carefully teach you how to do it, so even beginners can learn while having fun. Because this traditional method takes advantage of the behavior of river shrimp, your clothes may get completely soaked. Be sure not to forget to bring a change of clothes.

The shrimp you catch can be enjoyed boiled in salt. Since you catch and eat your own shrimp, it is bound to be delicious. If you would like to enjoy it as a dish, try requesting some fried shrimp on the spot. You can fully savor the blessings of the Shimanto River.

10. Relaxed river boat ride "Float Raft"

Float Raft is an activity where you ride a rubber boat and let the river gently carry you downstream. It is characterized by its relaxed pace compared to canoeing or rafting. The course changes between the morning and the afternoon, so it is recommended to experience both. Due to the limited number of boats, advance reservations are essential. Since you won’t get as wet as you would with whitewater rafting, it is available even during the winter. The activity is suitable for ages 5 and up, so even young children can enjoy it.

11. Experience treasure hunting at "Stone Learning"

Along the Shimanto River, there are stones known as “serpentine.” “Ishi no Rakushuu” is an experiential program that resembles a treasure hunt for these serpentine stones. When searching for the stones, a magnet is used—and this is extremely popular among children.

Guided by a guide affectionately called “Serpentine Stone Uncle,” who explains the history and types of the stones as you search, it is said to be a very educational experience. The serpentine stones you find can be polished with sandpaper and taken home as souvenirs. These mysteriously sparkling stones are rare treasures that can only be seen along the Shimanto River.

12. Enjoy catching Tsugani crabs in the Shimanto River

When it comes to delicious crabs, many might think of “Shanghai crabs” or “snow crabs,” but the “Tsugani” that inhabit the Shimanto River are said to be even more delicious. Since most of the Tsugani caught are consumed within Kochi Prefecture, they are a rare crab not found throughout the country.

On the Shimanto River, you can experience “Tsugani catching.” Because Tsugani are nocturnal, you simply set the traps in the evening and then collect them at 7:00 in the morning. Doesn’t it sound like a dream to be able to catch these elusive crabs with such simple work? It is recommended to enjoy the caught Tsugani while they are still fresh—their rich flavor is sure to impress you!

13. Enjoy "River Fishing" in one of Japan's most representative pure rivers

Of course, there are also places along the Shimanto River where you can enjoy fishing. Fish such as Ugui and Oikawa, which can only be seen in clear streams, are definitely worth trying to catch at least once. The key to successful fishing is to go early in the morning. Since you’re fishing in one of Japan’s premier rivers, you won’t truly enjoy it unless you fish during the time when the catch is at its peak. By the way, a full set of equipment is available for rent at Shimanto Gakusha.

◎ Summary

You may already know that the Shimanto River is the most beautiful river in Japan, but it’s amazing how many experiential programs are available here. It’s no exaggeration to say that the volume of activities is such that a week-long stay would barely be enough to experience them all. It’s a place where everyone—from the elderly to young children—can enjoy, making it highly recommended for a summer family trip.

RELATED ARTICLES

Amsterdam to Close Infamous Red Light District

Amsterdam's city council has voted to close the infamous De Wallen red light district and set the shops up in a new area away from the city ...

2,321 views

Traditional Activities to Try Out in Asakusa for a Feel of Japanese Culture

Asakusa offers a glimpse of Japan's traditional side, with streets lined with age-old shops and temples. There's no better way to soak in th...

2,159 views

The 7 Most Spectacular Christmas Markets in Europe

‘Tis (almost) the season to be jolly! If you’re looking to really get into the holiday spirit this Christmas with soothing mulled wine, lip-...

2,294 views

Germany：The Perfect Gateway to History, Culture and Natural Beauty

Germany offers a perfect mix of scenic forests, rivers, mountain ranges and beaches along the North Sea. The country is particularly famous ...

2,969 views

Not Just Cape Shionomisaki! 9 Fascinating Tourist Spots in Kushimoto Town, Wakayama Prefecture

Kushimoto Town, located at the southernmost tip of Wakayama Prefecture, is home to a variety of natural attractions centered around Cape Shi...

15 views