Matsukawa Pleasure Boat

This is a historical cruise that starts at the foot of the bridge near Toyama Castle Ruins Park and takes about 30 minutes for a round trip along the Matsukawa River. The cruise is guided by the captain of the boat, who is full of personality, and visitors can enjoy the view from the water while tracing the history of the Toyama Clan, a branch of the Kaga Hyakumangoku Clan. The path passes under the arch of cherry blossoms, which has been selected as one of the 100 best cherry blossom viewing spots in Japan.

The Matsukawa River was originally a natural outer moat to protect Toyama Castle. The river was developed by the feudal lords of the Toyama Domain, a branch of the Kaga clan, and played an indispensable role in the development of Toyama, as goods brought in by Kitamae-bune from Higashi Iwase Port downstream were transported to the city. The course that takes visitors around this historically important river is dotted with sights such as the arched Sakura Bridge with its beautiful stone pillars and balustrades, and the Boat Bridge over the ruins of the Etchu Jinzu Funabashi, where 64 boats were lined up in a row and planks were laid on top of them.

In addition, there is a Matsukawa teahouse at the boat pier, where visitors can enjoy sweet and light meals such as green tea parfait, amazake (sweet sake), and dango (dumplings). There is also a museum commemorating Taki Rentaro, who lived in Toyama Castle for about two years and composed "The Moon over the Deserted Castle," which can be visited free of charge.