Shinano River Okouzu Museum (信濃川 大河津資料館)

Flow of the course

About this spot

A museum introducing the Okouzu Diversion Channel, which diverts water from the Shinano River out to the Sea of Japan; admission is free. Models and video displays clearly explain the history of how a channel was dug by hand through a mountain to prevent the floods that repeatedly struck the Echigo Plain. The rooftop observation deck offers a sweeping view of the actual diversion channel and movable weir, so what you learn in the exhibits unfolds right before your eyes, a brilliant setup. Children are honestly amazed by the scale of the civil engineering work. Since it's a facility about the flow of water, it also makes a natural lead-in to the pool in the afternoon.

Tips

Admission is free. The museum has closed days, so check in advance. The rooftop viewing area gets strong sunlight, so don't forget a hat. There's a parking lot, making it an easy spot to visit by car.

Best time to visit

Takes about 1 hour. Right after opening there are fewer visitors, so you can take your time.

Access & map

959-0123 Niigata Prefecture, Tsubame City, Gosenkoku