Chikugo River: Kyushu's Lifeline

The Chikugo River, affectionately nicknamed 'Tsukushi Jiro,' stretches 143 kilometers, making it the longest river on Kyushu. Originating from the slopes of Mount Aso, it winds its way through Oita, Kumamoto, Fukuoka, and Saga prefectures before reaching the Ariake Sea. This vital waterway has earned its place as one of Japan's three great rivers, alongside the Tone in Kanto and the Yoshino in Shikoku.Historically, the Chikugo River has been both a blessing and a challenge. While its waters have long been essential for agriculture, irrigating the Tsukushi Plain for rice cultivation, it was also prone to severe flooding. The devastating flood of 1953 spurred the construction of dams and the Chikugo Barrage to control the river's flow and provide a stable water supply for domestic and industrial use in Fukuoka and Saga.Today, the Chikugo River is a multifaceted resource. Its upper reaches support forestry, while the middle and lower sections are crucial for agriculture. The river also powers twenty electrical plants along its banks, contributing to the region's industry. Visitors can experience the river's charm through various activities, including boat trips to see Japanese grenadier anchovy spawning near Jojima, enjoying water activities like kayaking and stand-up paddleboarding near Harazuru Hot Spring, or witnessing the breathtaking sunset from the Rokugoro Bridge. The river is also home to the Chikugo River Fireworks Festival, one of the largest in western Japan, held annually in Kurume.