'Venice of Japan': A Quaint Port Town in Toyama Prefecture

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Boats line the banks of the gently flowing Uchikawa River, surrounded by rows of traditional houses. The river runs through Imizu City in Toyama Prefecture, while the surrounding port town stretches about 2.6 kilometers from Toyama New Port to Nago-no-Ura.

It once thrived as a key stop for the Kitamaebune trading ships. Shipping and fishing supported the local economy for generations. Because of its close connection between water and daily life, the area is sometimes called "the Venice of Japan."

*Fishing boats make their way along the calm waters of Uchikawa.*

Life by the Water

From a distance, the low rumble of fishing boats echoes across the water. These are vessels setting out before dawn. When they return, fishermen moor along the riverbank and share their catches of octopus and sardines. On warm days, they sometimes prepare the fresh fish right there and enjoy a casual drink together.

*At dawn, the hum of fishing boat engines fills the air.*

Many of the wooden two-story houses around Uchikawa are 80 to 90 years old. Some even date back to the late Edo period. The latticed windows, wooden fences, and copper roofs typical of seaside towns give the streets a nostalgic charm. Walking through them feels as if time has stopped.

*On clear days, the Tateyama Mountain Range can be seen beyond the town.*

"On sunny days, the light reflected off the water shimmers gently under the eaves," said a representative of the nonprofit "Mizube no Machi Shinminato," which works to revitalize the area.

*Octopus and sardines that aren't shipped may become snacks for fishermen or part of their dinner. Small Jizo shrines dot the town. | Residents living by the water offer prayers for safety at sea.*

Reviving the Community

But even this peaceful scene faces challenges. The number of fishermen is declining. As people move away, the narrow streets and tightly packed homes are increasingly left vacant.

To draw attention to the area, the NPO has created walking maps and hosted small performances in empty houses. The city of Imizu is also encouraging people from other regions to move in.

*The community preserves the rare scenery of a traditional river port.*

In recent years, several newcomers, including families, have settled around Uchikawa. While some residents continue to leave, a small but steady number of people are being drawn to the town's simple, timeless charm.

All videos and photos are from 2013.