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

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."

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.

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.

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."

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.

RELATED:

• Hidden Wonders | Paying Tribute to Time at a Clock Festival
• 'Running on Water' at Lake Biwa: Exciting Summer Fun for All Ages
  
  

(Read the article in Japanese.)

Author: Koichi Yamada, The Sankei Shimbun Writer

Advertisement