Mogami Gorge Basho Line Tour (Mogami River Boat Ride)

Mogami River and the Land Associated with Basho

The Mogami River, one of Yamagata Prefecture’s major first-class rivers, is a magnificent waterway counted among Japan’s three most rapid rivers. It is also known for the haiku master Matsuo Basho, who wrote, “Summer rains gather and the Mogami River flows swiftly” in The Narrow Road to the Deep North. The Mogami Gorge, which stretches through its middle reaches, is a valley where visitors can enjoy natural beauty in every season over a distance of about 15 km, and the Mogami Gorge Basho Line Boat Ride takes you through this scenic area.

The Appeal of the Boat Ride

This boat ride follows a course of about 12 km and takes about one hour, passing famous sights steeped in history and stories, such as places associated with the legend of Yoshitsune and the filming location of the NHK drama Oshin. Each boatman’s singing and commentary is unique, offering new discoveries every time you visit. As a result, it has many repeat visitors and has received high acclaim, including being ranked No. 1 in the “Top 30 Water Tour Cruises Selected by Professionals.”

Scenery Through the Seasons

- Spring: Mountain cherry blossoms bloom in abundance, creating a graceful and colorful scene along the river.
- Summer: Fresh green leaves shine brilliantly, and the cool breeze and sound of the clear stream make for a refreshing experience.
- Autumn: Autumn leaves vividly color the gorge, and the reflections on the water look like a painting.
- Winter: A “kotatsu boat” appears amid snowy scenery. You can enjoy a fantastical snow-viewing boat ride while sitting in a warm kotatsu (available only from December through the end of March).

Boatmen and Guides

On the Mogami Gorge boat ride, the boatmen, known for their distinctive Tozawa dialect, guide visitors through the history and legends of the Mogami River with plenty of humor. Their refined boat songs and unique style of narration add depth and color to the memories of your journey.

Convenient and Reliable Services

- The departure point is Koguchi Port in Tozawa Village, and the arrival point is Kusanagi Port in Shonai Town. On the return trip, you can use a local bus or shuttle bus to go back to Koguchi Station or the boarding area. Checking the bus schedule in advance is recommended.
- The boats are roofed, so you can board with peace of mind even in rainy weather.
- The winter kotatsu boat is especially popular, allowing you to comfortably enjoy the snowy scenery.
- You can also enjoy a pre-booked onboard bento meal while making the most of the boat ride and the scenery.

Historical Background

River transport on the Mogami River began in the Heian period and developed during the Edo period through large-scale improvements by Mogami Yoshimitsu, the lord of Yamagata Castle. During the heyday of Mogami River shipping, Murayama was home to the three treacherous rapids most feared by boatmen: Goden, Mikase, and Hayabusa. Although these are not part of the current Mogami Gorge boat ride route, they remain essential places in any discussion of the history of Mogami River transportation.

The Mogami Gorge Basho Line Boat Ride is a special experience that lets you savor Yamagata’s nature and history with all five senses. Spending an hour immersed in scenery that changes with each season and touched by the warm character of the boatmen leaves a deep impression on all who visit.