The Kappa Legends of the Yabigawa River
The Yabigawa River has long been associated with numerous stories about kappa, legendary creatures said to inhabit rivers and ponds in Japanese folklore. In Oki, kappa are traditionally known as “katsuba” and have been closely associated with the water.
One of the best-known stories concerns a kappa living in the Yabigawa River and a farmer named Kyubei of Tojin-ya, who grew cucumbers in his fields. After a kappa repeatedly stole cucumbers from his crops, Kyubei became angry and used a treasured small sword to cut off the creature’s arm.
The kappa eventually returned day after day, apologizing and asking Kyubei to return its arm. Seeing that the creature sincerely regretted its actions, Kyubei agreed on two conditions: the kappa must never steal cucumbers again, and it must never harm the children of the Tojin-ya family. The kappa accepted the conditions, and Kyubei returned its arm.
From then on, local children are said to have called out “I’m a child of Tojin-ya!” when playing in the river. The story can be understood not only as a traditional folktale but also as a reminder of the respect and caution traditionally required when living and playing near rivers.
A Community Shaped by Its Relationship with Water
Water has always been essential to life on Oki Island. The Yabigawa River has a relatively small drainage area, meaning that its water level can rise rapidly after heavy rain, while periods of drought have also caused difficulties.
As a result, local communities developed a close relationship with the river. Traditions involving prayers for rain, water deities, and kappa legends became part of the cultural landscape.
A traditional ceremony associated with the kappa is still held every other year on July 25 or 26. Offerings are made at a small shrine dedicated to the kappa, and a river boat is set afloat as part of the ritual.
Believed to have a history extending back hundreds of years, the ceremony represents the community’s gratitude and prayers concerning the river. A boat ride along the Yabigawa provides an opportunity to see this waterway not simply as scenery, but as an important part of local history and culture.
Views of Saigo’s Historic Harbor Town
The appeal of the Yabigawa Kappa Sightseeing Boat extends beyond nature. The cruise also offers views of the historic town around Saigo Port, an area that once prospered through the Kitamaebune trading network.
Fishing boats line the riverbanks, while houses and buildings stand close to the water in the traditional style of a Japanese fishing community. From the boat, the relationship between the town and the river is especially easy to appreciate.
The peaceful scenery, gentle movement of the boat, and sounds of the water create a nostalgic atmosphere. For some visitors, cruising through this historic harbor landscape can feel like taking a brief journey into an earlier era of Oki.
Saigo Ohashi Bridge and the Harbor Landscape
The Striking Red Arch of Saigo Ohashi
One of the landmarks visible during the cruise is Saigo Ohashi Bridge, recognizable by its vivid red color. Completed in 1977, this arch bridge was said to have been the largest of its type in the Orient when it was constructed.
The bridge stretches approximately 271 meters and forms a distinctive landmark above the harbor. Its bright red structure contrasts beautifully with the blue sky and sea, creating an impressive view from the water.
The Lively Atmosphere of Saigo Fishing Port
The cruise also passes near Saigo Fishing Port, one of the larger fishing ports in Shimane Prefecture. Numerous fishing boats can be seen moored in the harbor, offering a glimpse into the maritime industries that continue to support local life.
Depending on the season and time of day, visitors may see fishing boats entering or leaving the harbor, or seabirds resting along the waterfront. The fresh sea breeze and working harbor atmosphere provide an authentic glimpse of everyday life on Oki.
Rich Nature and Seasonal Wildlife
The Yabigawa River basin is home to a variety of plants and animals. Birds such as spot-billed ducks, kingfishers, and mandarin ducks can be seen around the river and wetlands, with different species and seasonal behavior appearing throughout the year.
In spring, whitebait fishing takes place in the river and is regarded as one of the seasonal signs that spring has arrived on Oki.
In early summer, Genji fireflies can be seen dancing around the upper reaches of the river. Seasonal flowers also add color to the riverside landscape, including delicate daffodils known locally as Yui daffodils along the drainage channel.
A River That Has Shaped the Community’s History
The Yabigawa River has brought both benefits and challenges to the communities along its banks. While its waters support rich natural habitats and local life, flooding has also been a recurring concern.
To reduce the risk of flooding, a drainage channel known as the Yabigawa Floodway was constructed. The channel was excavated largely by hand during the 1950s, making it an important example of local civil engineering and the efforts of the community to manage its natural environment.
Today, the floodway serves an important role in flood control while also providing a pleasant landscape where seasonal flowers can be enjoyed.
During the sightseeing cruise, guides can introduce stories about the river, local history, and traditional culture, allowing visitors to understand the landscape from a perspective that goes beyond simple sightseeing.
Slow Down and Enjoy the Island’s Pace of Life
The Yabigawa Kappa Sightseeing Boat is not an attraction focused on speed or spectacle. Its appeal lies in the opportunity to slow down and experience Oki’s nature, history, culture, and everyday life from the water.
Reflections of houses on the river, clouds moving slowly across the sky, fishing boats traveling through the harbor, and the gentle sea breeze all contribute to the relaxed atmosphere.
The local guide’s stories about kappa legends and the history of the area add another dimension to the journey. Even travelers who know little about Oki’s culture can enjoy the cruise while discovering how closely the island’s communities have been connected with the river and sea.
Meeting Point and Cruise Duration
The meeting point is on the first floor of Oki Port Plaza in Okinoshima Town. It is located close to the ferry terminal area, making it easy to reach during a visit to Saigo.
The sightseeing cruise lasts approximately 45 minutes, offering a convenient way to experience the natural scenery, cultural traditions, and harbor landscape of Oki even when your itinerary is limited.
A Relaxing Journey Through Oki’s Nature and Folklore
The Yabigawa Kappa Sightseeing Boat is a unique way to discover Oki through its river, harbor, legends, and local way of life. The cruise brings together the kappa stories of the Yabigawa River, the historic scenery of Saigo, the striking red Saigo Ohashi Bridge, the busy fishing port, and the rich seasonal wildlife of the river basin.
Rather than simply observing the landscape from land, travelers can experience how the town developed around its waterways while listening to stories passed down through generations.
For visitors to Okinoshima Town, this gentle 45-minute cruise offers an easy and memorable opportunity to experience the slower rhythm of island life and discover a fascinating side of Oki that can only be appreciated from the water.