Sendo-hira Lock Gate (船頭平閘門)

Flow of the course

About this spot

A facility in Tatta-cho, Aisai City, built to let boats travel between the two great rivers, the Kiso and the Nagara. Since the two rivers have different water levels, the system works by bringing a boat into the lock chamber and raising or lowering the water level before letting it pass through. This brick structure, built in the Meiji era, is designated an Important Cultural Property of Japan, and it's remarkable that it's still in active use today. If you're lucky, you might catch a boat passing through and watch the water slowly rise and fall right in front of you. The surrounding area is maintained as Sendo-hira River Park, and walking through the river breeze is also a pleasant experience.

Tips

Boats don't pass through on a fixed schedule, so whether you catch one is a matter of luck. Some areas along the water have no fencing, so hold young children's hands while walking. There's little to block the sun, so don't forget a hat and drinks. Checking the location on a map beforehand helps you appreciate the scale of the Kiso Three Rivers.

Best time to visit

About 50 minutes. Mornings, with the river breeze, are a comfortable time to visit

Access & map

〒496-0946 Aichi Prefecture, Aisai City, Tatta-cho Jurokkokuyama