[Photo Report]
Expanding the Circle of “River-Based Community Building” in Mukawa Town
— Connecting the Blessings of the Mukawa River to the Future

On November 19, 2025, an information-sharing event was held at Mukawa Town Hall to promote the town’s Kawamachi-zukuri (river-based community development). Centered on the Mukawa River—the town’s symbolic natural asset—the gathering brought together people engaged in river-space activities to exchange ideas, share event information, and explore ways to connect rivers and communities while making the most of local resources. It was a lively forum highlighting how the river supports culture, learning, sports, and everyday life.

◎ Shishamo Hatchery Tour

Since opening in November 2022 on the right bank downstream of Mukawa Bridge, the shishamo (smelt) hatchery has hosted annual tours. This year, around 20 participants learned about shishamo ecology and Mukawa’s fisheries—an invaluable hands-on experience.

(Click photos to enlarge)

◎ Arimori Cup Marathon

Held on June 8 along the left-bank levee upstream of Hobetsu Bridge—known as Arimori Road—this race is inspired by Olympic marathon runner Yuko Arimori’s philosophy, “Turn joy into strength.” With 125 runners under clear skies, the 21st edition emphasized perseverance and resilience, supported by a standout children’s organizing committee.

◎Mukawa Town Hobetsu Log-Driving Festival (All-Hokkaido Log-Driving Competition)

Now in its 42nd year, the festival took place over two days on July 19–20. Visitors from near and far enjoyed log-driving competitions, stage performances, fireworks, and local food—making it one of the town’s signature summer events.

◎After-School Fishing Program

Fishing classes for elementary school students were held in June and September, organized by GCs LLC. Parents and retired teachers volunteered as “community instructors,” teaching children fishing skills and river safety.

◎SUP (Stand-Up Paddleboard) Experience

A popular Mukawa River activity that combines outdoor fun with science education. Participants receive thorough safety briefings, wear life jackets, and check water levels using river gauges attached to bridges. Mukawa Town plans to further promote SUP as part of its river-based initiatives.

→　 Photo Report: “Mukawa River SUP Experience—Building Local Pride!”

◎Sport Casting Tournament

With the goal of making Mukawa a “holy ground” for casting sports, tournaments are held along areas such as Shishamo Park (left bank upstream of Mukawa Bridge). Enthusiasts have even helped with site maintenance since 2024.

Sport Casting Competition at Mukawa River (YouTube video link)
→　YouTube: 2025.8.24 Japan Surf Casting Federation Hokkaido Summer Tournament

◎Mukawa–Sarugawa Cycling Tour

On July 27, about 40 cyclists rode a scenic 53 km route along the Mukawa and Saru rivers. Organized with the Hidaka Cycling Association, the tour highlights riverside attractions and offers three selectable cycling routes showcasing the area’s best views.

→　Cycling map & photo report available online

→　See this year’s photo report here→

◎“Talking About Mukawa Shishamo” Group

Founded after poor catches in 1993, this group has worked to share knowledge about shishamo ecology and environmental conservation. While currently inactive, plans include passing this knowledge to local elementary students through talks and workshops.

◎ Nature Study Group in Mukawa

Founded in April 1996, the Nature Study Group in Mukawa is dedicated to passing on Mukawa Town’s rich natural environment to future generations. The group places great importance on providing children with hands-on nature experiences through play and outdoor activities.
In addition to environmental education, the group is actively involved in river cleanups and the removal of invasive vegetation from the artificial tidal flats at the Mukawa River mouth.

→　Photo Report: Weeding at the Mukawa River Estuary Artificial Tidal Flat

Under the slogan “Enhancing Mukawa Power—A Town of Clear Streams, Health, and Harmony Between People and Nature,” Mukawa Town continues to strengthen community-wide efforts. By sharing ideas and turning them into action, residents and partners are building a vibrant future where rivers and towns thrive together.