Sakuta no Une Park (裂田溝公園)

Flow of the course

About this spot

Recorded even in the Nihon Shoki, this is one of Japan's oldest agricultural irrigation canals, said to have been built by order of Empress Jingu. Nearly 1,800 years later, it still actively irrigates fields today, and it's a constituent cultural property of the Japan Heritage site The Ancient Capital of Western Japan as well as one of Japan's Top 100 Irrigation Canals. Walking along the canal as it flows gently through the rural landscape lets you truly feel the advanced civil engineering skills of ancient people and the deep history of farming in this area. With the green of summer rice paddies and the murmur of the canal, it's a wonderfully pleasant place for a stroll.

Tips

About 10 minutes by car from Arahito Shrine. The path along the canal is partly unpaved, so wear comfortable walking shoes. The sun can be strong in summer, so don't forget a hat and something to drink. It's about a 10-minute drive to the next stop, Nakagawa City Central Park.

Best time to visit

About 45 minutes needed. Early afternoon, when the sun isn't too strong, is recommended

Access & map

〒811-1244 福岡県那珂川市山田５４０