Overview
The Tsuruta River is a class-two river flowing through the central part of Miyagi Prefecture, with a total length of about 24.7 kilometers. It is not a flashy, famous sightseeing river, but the way its course follows an unusual landscape is its greatest appeal. Along the way it passes beneath the Yoshida River through the Yoshida River siphon, and when it re-emerges above ground it changes its name to the Takagi River before pouring into Matsushima Bay. Flowing quietly through fields and rural scenery, it evokes the connection between Miyagi's waterside life and its nature.
Highlights
- ●The unusual waterworks of the Yoshida River siphon, passing beneath another river
- ●The clever course that becomes the Takagi River downstream and empties into Matsushima Bay
- ●Simple waterside scenery flowing quietly through fields and villages
- ●A class-two river of central Miyagi tracing about 24.7 kilometers
History
The Tsuruta River has long watered the lowlands of central Miyagi, supporting the area's flood control and agriculture as a class-two river. Its most distinctive feature is the engineering of an inverted siphon that carries it beneath another river, the Yoshida River. This arrangement, in which the rivers cross one another in three dimensions, conveys to this day the history of a land that has skillfully managed its waterways. For details of its origins and management, please refer to official information.
Access
The Tsuruta River flows near 38.37 degrees north and 141.07 degrees east, in the central part of Miyagi Prefecture that heads toward Matsushima Bay. The area around the Yoshida River siphon and the lower reaches where it becomes the Takagi River are the easiest spots to appreciate the quirks of the terrain. As the surroundings are farmland, traveling by car is convenient, but some roads are winding, so it is reassuring to check your route in advance.
Best season
From early summer, when the waterside greenery is fresh, through autumn, when the fields take on color, is a pleasant season for a stroll. The gentle scenery along the river changes its face with each season, making it perfect for travelers who want to spend a quiet time. Take care not to approach the banks too closely during high-water periods.
Map
38.3741, 141.0711 · Wikidata
Suggested itinerary
- 1Find the flow of the Tsuruta River in the farmland of central Miyagi
- 2Observe the crossing terrain around the Yoshida River siphon
- 3Follow the lower reaches where it takes on the name Takagi River
- 4Extend to the river mouth toward Matsushima Bay to end a day by the water
Did you know?
💡 The Tsuruta River's most striking feature is that after passing beneath the Yoshida River through a siphon, it changes its name to the Takagi River once it emerges above ground. The same current takes on a different name and even passes beneath another river, an unusual waterway that is well known locally and part of this area's distinctive landscape story.
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