Yata River

Overview

The Yata River is a first-class river of the Tone River system flowing through the southern part of Ibaraki Prefecture. About 35.2 km long, it flows into Ushiku-numa marsh from the north and out again from the south to join the Kokai River. It is not a dramatic scenic spot, but its gentle course linking rural fields and marsh makes it well suited to walks and cycling along the waterways of southern Ibaraki.

Highlights

• ●An unusual course that both enters and leaves Ushiku-numa
• ●A gentle first-class river of about 35.2 km
• ●A waterside linking fields and marsh, typical of southern Ibaraki
• ●The natural setting around Ushiku-numa where waterfowl gather

History

The Yata River is a watercourse centered on Ushiku-numa marsh, both feeding into the marsh and carrying water out from it toward the Kokai River. This connection of marsh and river has long supported the life of the surrounding paddy fields and villages. Ushiku-numa is also known in local lore as a birthplace of the unadon (grilled eel bowl), and the Yata River forms part of the backdrop to this waterside culture.

Map

35.9197, 140.1325 · Wikidata

Suggested itinerary

1. 1Head to the Ushiku-numa area via the JR Joban Line and nearby lines
2. 2Follow the Yata River's course from the marsh shore
3. 3Take in the local-stream scenery amid the paddy fields
4. 4Finish with Ushiku-numa's local food and a waterside stroll

Did you know?

💡 The Yata River has the somewhat unusual relationship of both flowing into and out of Ushiku-numa, so it flanks the marsh on the upstream and downstream sides. As its length of 35.2 km suggests, it is no great river, but that is exactly why it is cherished as a familiar local stream.

Nearby spots