Things To Do
in Yanagawa

Yanagawa is a picturesque city located in Fukuoka Prefecture, Japan, known for its beautiful canals and traditional boat rides. Rich in history, Yanagawa was once a castle town and today retains many of its historical sites and beautiful gardens. The city is famous for its unique eel dishes and vibrant festivals that celebrate its cultural heritage.

Visitors can enjoy a serene atmosphere with the backdrop of stunning natural scenery and historic architecture.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Day 1: Exploring Yanagawa's Heritage
morning
:

Start your day with a traditional Yanagawa breakfast at a local café. Then, visit the Yanagawa Castle ruins to learn about the city's history and enjoy views of the surrounding gardens.

afternoon
:

Take a scenic boat ride through the canals, experiencing the serene beauty of the waterways while learning about the city's past from your guide. After the boat tour, explore the Tachibana Museum, which showcases local art and artifacts.

evening
:

Enjoy dinner at a local izakaya, savoring the famous yanagawa unagi (grilled eel) while soaking in the local atmosphere. Conclude your day with a leisurely stroll along the canals, where you can see beautiful lanterns lighting up the night.

day 2
Day 2: Nature and Culture
morning
:

Visit the Yanagawa Tachibana Park, where you can enjoy a morning walk amid seasonal blooms, then have a picnic brunch in the park.

afternoon
:

Take a trip to the nearby Yamakuni River for a leisurely hike or cycling along the riverbanks. Stop by local shops to pick up souvenirs and traditional crafts.

evening
:

Have dinner at a restaurant known for its regional specialties, followed by a visit to a local onsen (hot spring) to unwind and relax after your day of exploration.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍣Sushi Meal$15
🍜Ramen$8
Coffee$4
🍶Sake Bottle$20
🚍Local Bus Fare$2

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Beautiful canals and historical sites
  • Delicious local cuisine
  • Friendly and safe atmosphere
  • Limited nightlife options
  • Can be humid in summer
  • Some tourist attractions may have language barriers
  • "こんにちは" - Hello
  • "ありがとう" - Thank you
  • "おいしい" - Delicious
  • "すみません" - Excuse me/Sorry
  • "はい" - Yes

Places to Visit in Yanagawa

Visit one of these nice places.

Yanagawa Castle Ruins

Capture stunning views of the castle ruins and the surrounding gardens, especially during cherry blossom season.

Canal Boat Rides

Photograph the picturesque canals from your boat, where traditional houses line the water.

Tachibana Park

A beautiful park with seasonal flowers, ideal for nature photography.

Culinary Guide

Food in Yanagawa

Yanagawa is a culinary delight, offering a variety of local dishes that reflect its rich cultural heritage. Must-try dishes include eel specialties and seasonal delicacies found throughout the city.

Yanagawa Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Unagi no Seiro Mushi

Steamed eel served over rice, a local delicacy that is both flavorful and tender.

Must-Try!

Kawagishi

A sweet dumpling made with rice flour, often filled with sweet red bean paste.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Yanagawa Food Market

A bustling market where you can sample local snacks and fresh produce.

Street Food Stalls near the Canal

Enjoy delicious street food like yakitori (grilled chicken skewers) and sweet treats.

Climate Guide

Weather

Yanagawa experiences a humid subtropical climate with four distinct seasons. Summers (June to August) are warm and humid, with average temperatures of 25-30°C (77-86°F). Winters (December to February) are mild but can be chilly, averaging around 0-10°C (32-50°F). Spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November) offer pleasant temperatures and beautiful foliage.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Bowing

Bowing is a common greeting and sign of respect in Japan.

Shoes Off Indoors

Always remove your shoes when entering someone's home or certain traditional establishments.

Quiet Public Behavior

Maintain a low volume in public spaces, especially on public transportation.

Safety Guide

Safety

Yanagawa is considered a safe destination with low crime rates. However, as always, it's wise to stay vigilant in crowded areas and take standard precautions. Avoid walking alone late at night in less populated areas.

Tipping in Yanagawa

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping Customs

Tipping is not customary in Japan and can sometimes be seen as rude; instead, express gratitude verbally.

Payment Methods

Cash is widely accepted, although many restaurants and shops also accept credit cards. Use ATMs that support international cards.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Spring

Expect mild weather and beautiful cherry blossoms, particularly in March and April.

Summer

Summers can be hot and humid, with temperatures reaching up to 30°C (86°F). Enjoy river activities to cool off.

Autumn

Fall foliage paints the city in vibrant colors, making it a scenic time for outdoor activities.

Winter

Winters are mild, but it can get chilly; visiting hot springs is a popular activity during this season.

Nightlife Guide

Yanagawa at Night

Yanagawa has a relaxed nightlife scene, primarily focused on cozy izakayas and bars along the canals. Visitors can enjoy local drinks, including sake and shochu, while mingling with locals. The atmosphere is friendly, and many establishments have outdoor seating for canal views at night.

Hiking in Yanagawa

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Yamakuni River Trail

A scenic trail along the Yamakuni River, offering beautiful views and opportunities for birdwatching.

Mount Kuroiwa

A moderate hiking trail that leads to a summit with panoramic views of the surrounding countryside.

Airports

How to reach Yanagawa by plane.

Fukuoka Airport (FUK)

Located approximately 45 minutes from Yanagawa, Fukuoka Airport is the nearest major airport, offering domestic and international flights.

Getting Around

Walkability

Yanagawa is a walkable city, with many attractions located within a short distance of each other. The scenic canals make for enjoyable strolls, especially in the downtown area, where you can find shops, restaurants, and parks.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Local Residents

The majority of Yanagawa's residents are Japanese, with a strong sense of community and cultural traditions.

Tourists

Yanagawa attracts domestic and international tourists, particularly those interested in cultural heritage and culinary experiences.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Baseball

Baseball is a popular sport throughout Japan, including Yanagawa, with local teams often playing in community leagues.

Soccer

Soccer also enjoys popularity, with many schools and clubs participating in local tournaments.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic in Yanagawa is generally light, and the city is well-connected by public transportation, including buses and local trains. The public transport system is efficient, making it easy to navigate without a car.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Yanagawa.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian Options

While eel is a local specialty, many restaurants offer vegetarian options, including tempura vegetables and rice dishes.

Gluten-Free

Some restaurants provide gluten-free meals; however, it's important to ask staff to ensure proper preparation.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Healthcare in Yanagawa is accessible, with several clinics and hospitals available. Travelers should have travel insurance that covers medical expenses, as English-speaking medical staff may not always be available.

Discover Japan

Read more in our Japan 2025 Travel Guide.

Japan Travel Guide