Culture

Rowboat Ride along Hachiman-bori Canal: A Hidden Gem in Shiga

Enjoy a serene boat tour along Omihachiman City's Hachiman-bori canal, where historic charm meets natural beauty under verdant greenery.

Published

4 months ago

June 28, 2024

Koichi Yamada

Traditional Japanese rowboat navigating the Hachiman-bori canal. (© Sankei by Koichi Yamada)

Under a canopy of fresh greenery, a traditional hand-propelled Japanese boat glides gently along the Hachiman-bori canal. Those who enjoyed the 35-minute boat journey wore satisfied smiles as they headed toward their next destination.

In Omi-Hachiman City, Shiga Prefecture, visitors can experience a boat tour on the Hachiman-bori canal. The charming, old-fashioned townscapes that have served as settings for period dramas can all be enjoyed from the comfort of a traditional Japanese rowboat.

A Pleasant Journey Through History

As we arrived at the boarding area, an interesting sign welcomed us. It read, "Japan's most leisurely experience: a hand-propelled Japanese boat tour around the canal. Enjoy a relaxing journey guided by our cheerful boatman."

Mr Horio (73), our boatman, began recounting the history of Hachiman-bori moat as he guided the boat along the canal.

In a smooth voice, he explained, "Toyotomi Hideyoshi's nephew, Hidetsugu, built this canal in 1585. It connects to Lake Biwa, allowing boats to dock and laid the foundation for a prosperous commercial city."

A hand-propelled boat navigates through a tunnel of fresh greenery, making its way towards Shirakumo Bridge. The surrounding area boasts a picturesque landscape often seen in period dramas. Omihachiman City, Shiga Prefecture. *(© Sankei by Koichi Yamada)*

*Mr Horio, the boatman who eloquently recounts the story of Hachiman-bori canal's history.* *(© Sankei by Koichi Yamada)*

Preservation Efforts and Challenges

Hachiman-bori moat also faced a crisis of survival. By the 1960s, it was overgrown with aquatic plants and had become a dumping ground for bicycles and tires. Sludge accumulation from household wastewater emitted foul odors, leading authorities to contemplate filling it in for parking lots and parks. However, thanks to the determined efforts of residents who argued that the community would regret it, these plans were successfully halted.

*A traditional Japanese rowboat changes course gracefully just before reaching Shirakumo Bridge.* *(© Sankei by Koichi Yamada)*

Shigeko Takagi is the president of Rabbit House Co, which operates hand-rowed boat tours around Hachiman-bori moat. She sees succession as the primary challenge. Hand-rowed boats do not require a license but rely heavily on skilled techniques. Boatman Eiichi Hamada, 72, explains the difficulties of the profession. "I constantly monitor the boat's bow, feeling the water's resistance with my hands to ensure we stay on course."

Currently, a man with no prior experience in Japanese rowboats is undergoing training, aiming to start around autumn.

*Peaceful moments drift by amid the lush greenery.* *(© Sankei by Koichi Yamada)*

Renewed Beauty

The guestbook aboard the boat is filled with warm messages such as "Thank you for a wonderful time. It was very truly delightful."

*The remnants of Hachimanyama Castle's stone walls on Hachiman Mountain.* *(© Sankei by Koichi Yamada)*

Thanks to local efforts, the town's historic charm has been restored. Had it been filled in back in the 1960s, this beautiful scenery would not exist today. We would not have had the opportunity for this serendipitous meeting by the water's edge. I am deeply thankful to those who cherish the canal.

(Read the article in Japanese.)

Author: Koichi Yamada, The Sankei Shimbun Writer