The Shimanto River is known as the last crystal clear river in Japan. A single crystal clear river flows down from deep in the mountains, twisting and turning, and combining with tributary rivers before becoming a much larger river and flowing out into the Pacific Ocean. 196km in length, this magnificent river is not only beautiful, but also the lifeblood of the region, being a part of the livelihood and culture of the people living here. The old cultural practice of turning myths into a play like form, called Kagura still remains in the area around the source of the river, while further down river in the mid-stream region, are tea fields shrouded in river mists.
One of the most intriguing things you find in along the river are chinkabashi bridges. Chinkabashi are submersible bridges, designed without balustrades so that debris like fallen trees being carried down a flooded Shimanto River simply flow over the bridge. As the bridges don't inhibit the flow of the river, the river is less likely to burst its banks, and the bridge is also less like to be washed away. In a way, this bridge represents the lifestyle of the people who live together in harmony with the natural environment, and acts as a vital connection between the villages that still exist here. Local children also love these bridges as a source of fun, jumping into the river from the chinkabashi. There are 22 chinkabashi that cross the main river, and 26 more spanning the tributaries, adding a further charm and allure to the Shimanto area.
You can still find traditional fishing methods that are rare in other parts of Japan being used by local fishermen here. Hiburi fishing is a method using fire torches to scare sweetfish into fishermen's nets, and shibazuke fishing uses leaves (like bamboo leaves) tied into bunches and submerged in the river to catch eels and river prawns. Witnessing these traditional methods is a great way to get a sense of the everyday life of those living together with the Shimanto River.
Each season has its own unique attractiveness here, but the best season is during the spring and summer when the forest greenery is at its most dazzling! From mid-April to mid-May, vibrant carp streamers are hung across the river, while in early summer you can take a river boat tour to watch thousands of fireflies dancing in the air.
The beauty and charm of old Japan has been kept alive in Shimanto, and after visiting this special place, you'll want to keep it a secret for yourself.