Chikugo River

Overview

The Chikugo River is Kyushu's largest river, flowing through four prefectures: Fukuoka, Saga, Kumamoto, and Oita. Originating in the Aso mountain range, its waters merge with numerous tributaries like the Kuju River, nourishing the fertile Chikugo and Saga plains before flowing into the Ariake Sea. Stretching 143 kilometers, it's the 22nd longest river in Japan. While previously known by names like "Senjōgawa," "Chikumagawa," and "Ichibanagawa," it officially became known as "Chikugo-gawa" in 1636 by the Tokugawa Shogunate. Once nicknamed "Chikushi Jirō," the "raging river," its history is marked by frequent floods that devastated local communities. The tranquil beauty of the rapeseed flowers blooming along its banks and riverbeds in spring makes it hard to imagine this tragic past. While the featured image is from Kitano-machi, Kurume City, the vibrant yellow of the rapeseed flowers stretches along both banks from Kurume City to Yoshii-machi, Ukiha City. During this time, the "Chikugo River Rapeseed Flower Festival" is held, featuring rapeseed flower walks, product exhibitions, and boat tours. While I haven't personally experienced it, a boat tour, perhaps on a yakatabune (a traditional Japanese pleasure boat), would offer a unique perspective, allowing you to enjoy the riverside scenery with a drink in hand. Rapeseed flowers originate in East Asia and Southern Europe, with about four main types, including 'Nana Midori,' which is edible. The flower language of rapeseed flowers includes cheerful love and small happiness. 【Chikugo River Riverbed, Kurume City】 Inquiries: Kurume City Tourism Convention Association TEL: 0942-31-1717 Access: 10-minute walk south from Minami-jin Station on the Nishitetsu Omuta Line