Paddle Shikoku’s Clear Waters

Rediscover the island as you float down the Shimanto River

A different side of Kochi Prefecture emerges as you paddle a kayak or SUP (stand-up paddle board) on the Shimanto River, near Shimanto City.

At 196 kilometers in length, the Shimanto River is the longest river in Shikoku, and is notable for the clarity of its waters and the beautiful natural setting through which it flows. SUPs and kayaks are ideal for spotting birds and fish in the rich natural environment as you negotiate the river’s meandering curves. A variety of tours, including easy and half-day courses, are available for both kayaks and SUPs. The guides will provide full instruction in paddling and using the watercraft, so it’s ideal for beginners as well.

At the end of the tour, you will reach one of the Shimanto River’s distinctive chinkabashi, bridges without side rails so that they can easily submerge without being washed away during floods (which often occur in typhoon-prone Japan).

Access: From Tokyo Haneda Airport, fly to Kochi Ryoma Airport (about one hour 30 minutes), then take the airport bus to Kochi Station (about 30 minutes), transfer to the Dosan Line limited express train to Nakamura Station, Shimanto (about one hour 50 minutes), and take a taxi to the paddle center (about 20 minutes).

Easy Course (WithRiver)