Enjoy an Adventure Along the Niyodo River

Kochi Prefectural CIR Minda Dettman

   This summer, Mitsui (a KIA staff member) and I attempted rafting along the Niyodo river! At times quiet and at times rough, the river provided an afternoon filled with excitement, as we rafted down in a small boat. Recently, you might find yourself staying at home to avoid crowds, but rafting is an activity that can be enjoyed in small groups, making it perfect for this summer. Now, let’s go back to the beginning of our story as we trace our rafting adventure.

Let’s go!

   First, Mitsui and I headed to Sakawa Station. There, we were picked up by Hiro, the instructor at Niyodo Adventure—the company running the experience we were to participate in. Laughing and talking merely, he drove us to the abandoned school that Niyodo Adventure is run out of.

Gorgeous scenery!

The Rafting Experience
   After changing into wetsuits, we climbed into the small, four-seater raft and headed down the river. At certain places along the river we were able to dive off the raft and swim, or climb up boulders and jump into the river. You could probably hear us laughing and screaming from the distance, as we enjoyed our afternoon.

   The water of the Niyodo River was quite cloudy due to the previous day’s rain. However, the branch river we rafted down was crystal clear. You could see all the way down to the bottom! Hiro will decide the day’s course, taking into consideration water levels and safety.

A rough spot in the river!

The Fun Continues!
    You reach the goal in approximately one to one and a half hours, but the fun is not over yet! After returning to the ex-school, we walked over to the Nakatsu Keikoku Yunomori Onsen (5 minute walk). You can choose to participate in the Niyodo Adventure experiences in the morning or afternoon. The advantage of the afternoon experience is that you may be able to stop by the onsen after your adventure (depending on the train’s schedule). After we relaxed in the onsen, Hiro dropped us off at the station, where we ate ramen before heading home, rocked by the train.

Niyodo Adventure
(450 Nanokawa, Niyodogawa-cho, Agawa-gun, Kochi, 781-1741)
Reserve your adventure here
→ https://www.niyodoadventure.com/
Nakatsu Canyoning and Packrafting: ¥8,500/adult
Times: ①8:45- ②13:45-
・Expeiences run from April to October
・ All gear rental (including life jackets) is included in the tour fee
・Free pickup available from Sakawa Station
・Instruction available in Japanese and English

Our guide, Hiro, and his partner Zoé
Niyodo Adventure can answer questions
in French, English, and Japanese