Watch from the stands as 1300 years of tradition unfold at the【Kiso River Ukai】

Experience the thrill as if you’re part of the action.

On the roughly 12-meter-long cormorant fishing boat, you can watch the team—a cormorant fisherman, a ‘middle rider’ steering the boat, and a ‘side rider’—work together as they navigate the river to catch fish. The prime viewing spot is likely the best place to observe. Spectator boats get close enough to feel the heat of the bonfires on your face and see the cormorants splashing water as they dive near.

The spectator boat itself is also a highlight. Under the concept of “enhancing the image of cormorant fishing,” it has been transformed into the stylish boat “Yurakumaru,” featuring only chair seating to accommodate those with back issues easily, replacing the traditional tatami mat seating. It boasts a contemporary wooden decor with eye-catching triangular tables. A compact kitchen has been installed at the back of the boat where meals can be warmed and drinks mixed, creating an overall relaxed atmosphere. The exterior has been meticulously designed to match the black-tiled roof of the National Treasure Inuyama Castle.

Glide gently past Inuyama Castle—where famed warlords like Nobunaga, Hideyoshi, and Ieyasu etched their names into the turbulent history—and the green-covered ruins of Uwanuma Castle on Castle Hill. Enjoy the scenic views of the Kiso River weaving through verdant landscapes alongside the remarkable skills of the traditional cormorant fishermen.

Experience the unique allure of the only daytime cormorant fishing event in Japan.

Traditionally, cormorant fishing utilizes the ayu fish’s instinct to gather towards light at night. However, to showcase the cormorant masters’ skills and their birds’ maneuvers, we uniquely offer this practice during the day.

There are two plans available: the “Easy Viewing Plan” and the “Boat Meal Plan,” each packed with enchanting experiences.

The “Easy Viewing Plan” allows you to enjoy the cool breeze and the natural beauty of the Kiso River, a nationally designated Place of Scenic Beauty. From the comfort of your boat, view Inuyama Castle, one of Japan’s five treasured castles, also known as “Hakuteijo” from a poem by the Tang dynasty poet Li Bai. Experience the unique perspective of the river and green landscapes only available from this vantage point, while appreciating the skillful display of the cormorant fishermen during the day—this experience is exclusive to this location.

The “Boat Meal Plan” complements the oldest standing Inuyama Castle tower and river landscapes with a choice of five different bento boxes prepared by local renowned eateries. Enjoy your meal while cruising, take a break on land, and then fully immerse yourself in watching cormorant fishing. Emulate the Heian period’s Prince Genji, who also enjoyed daytime cormorant fishing, and indulge in a fulfilling experience with dishes that showcase the local flavors, all set against the beautiful natural backdrop and living traditions of the Kiso River.

Delve into the mystical world of night cormorant fishing.

Cormorant fishing is traditionally a nocturnal activity. The night-time version presents a different, more enchanting face compared to its daytime counterpart. Similar to the daytime, there are two plans available: the “Easy Viewing Plan” and the “Boat Meal Plan.”

The “Easy Viewing Plan” allows you to immerse yourself in the unique ambiance of a quiet evening. Experience the serene atmosphere, with the “Evening Fuji” Mount Igi and the enchantingly lit Inuyama Castle emerging from the riverside darkness, transforming into a mystical sight. Relax on the boat, look up at the castle floating in the night sky, and enjoy the sophisticated maneuvers of the cormorant fishermen swaying on the boat.

The “Boat Meal Plan” offers a selection of seven exquisite meal choices, including traditional ryotei and kappo style ayu (sweetfish) dishes, among others. Some meals recreate historical local specialties, such as salt-grilled ayu caught by cormorants. The night-time meals differ from daytime offerings, including exclusive dishes only available with this plan.

After dining and a brief docking break, you can witness the atmospheric night-time cormorant fishing. Watch closely as the cormorants dive underwater to catch fish such as ayu and emerge back onto the water’s surface. Enjoy this climax of cormorant fishing up close, capturing the essence of this age-old tradition against a backdrop of nighttime serenity.

Experience the vibrant colors of the Kiso River from a cruise boat.

The Kiso River Cormorant Fishing Tour also offers exclusive cruise boat plans! Step aboard an open-air boat to enjoy the scenic beauty of the nationally recognized Kiso River, the imposing Inuyama Castle, and uniquely shaped rocks, all highlighted by the changing seasons. Depending on the time of year, we offer two specific boat tours: the “Inuyama Castle Cruise” and the “Momotaro Autumn Leaves Cruise.”

The “Inuyama Castle Cruise” operates regularly from mid-March to mid-November. From the boat, you can admire the cherry-lined riverbanks, lush nature, and the dramatic rocky landscape that approaches as you near. This 40-minute journey offers a relaxing break from exploring the castle town and a chance to enjoy the views of Inuyama.

On the other hand, the “Momotaro Autumn Leaves Cruise” runs from mid to late November. This 35-minute one-way journey connects Inuyama Castle port with Momotaro Park, known for its stunning autumn colors. Enjoy the vivid reds and yellows of fall from the comfort of the boat.

Both cruises allow for unobstructed photography, thanks to the open-top design. The departure points for the cruises are conveniently located near Inuyama Castle, making access easy. Immerse yourself in memorable vistas and tranquil moments, and savor the exquisite scenery that can only be appreciated from the boat, feeling as though you are a lord of ancient times.