Chikugo River, Okawa City, Fukuoka Prefecture
Rating
Cost per person
¥500
Discover the De Lijke Groin, a remarkable 6km stone embankment created in 1890 by Dutch engineer Johannes de Rijke to prevent sediment buildup in the Chikugo River. Located in Okawa City, Fukuoka Prefecture, this historic structure helped maintain navigable waters by increasing the river's flow and pushing sediment towards the river mouth. While mostly submerged except during low tide, you can view a model of the groin at the foot of the Chikugo River Lift Bridge on the Fukuoka side. Easily accessible by a 25-minute bus ride from Nishitetsu Yanagawa Station, the groin offers a glimpse into innovative Meiji-era engineering. Visit the Chikugo River Lift Bridge to see the groin's upstream edge and observe how it directs the river's flow. Best viewed during low tide for maximum visibility.