New floating pier near Ishikawacho Station. The name of the new pier will be announced on May 24 at 1:15 PM.

A new floating pier, tentatively named “Ishikawacho New Floating Pier,” has been completed on the Nakamura River near JR Ishikawacho Station. A completion ceremony will be held on May 24, and operations will begin.

Kanagawa Prefecture is developing nine waterfront facilities along the Ooka River system (Ooka River, Nakamura River, Hori River, and Horiwari River) to enhance the city’s appeal through water recreation and disaster prevention. The Ishikawacho floating pier is one of them. Five facilities have already been completed, making this the sixth.

The completion ceremony is scheduled from 1:00 PM to 3:00 PM and will take place at the event stage of the “Ura Fest” organized by local groups. At 1:15 PM, there will be a naming ceremony for the floating pier and a community exchange stage. At 1:40 PM, a water rescue demonstration by the Naka Fire Department will take place. At 2:00 PM, the pier completion ceremony and Ura Fest ceremony will be held, followed by a ribbon-cutting at 2:40 PM. The name of the floating pier was chosen through a local public征集 and will be announced during the ceremony. The event will begin at 12:00 PM with a concert by Yokohama Municipal Minato Junior High School, and activities near the floating pier will continue until 7:00 PM. Water transportation will be operated by Keihin Ferry Boat, including the inaugural voyage of the new open-deck vessel “CANALLINE,” along with two other ships.

The CANALLINE will operate between Ishikawacho and Yokohama Hino De Pier. Departures from Ishikawacho are at 12:00 PM and 1:20 PM, while departures from Hino De are at 12:40 PM and 2:20 PM. The travel time is 25 minutes (40 minutes for the last trip only). A hand-cranked organ and bubble street performance will be held on board, with a ticket price of 1,500 yen.

Two routes are available for the Yokohama Harbor cruise. The electric propulsion boat “e-Float Terrace,” equipped with a Yamaha engine, departs from Ishikawacho at 12:45 PM, 3:35 PM, and 4:30 PM, with a travel time of 40 minutes. It includes commemorative photos and a guided tour for 2,500 yen. The “Needs II” departs at 11:00 AM, 11:45 AM, 4:05 PM, 4:50 PM, and 5:35 PM, with a travel time of 30 minutes and a guided tour for 2,000 yen.

On the same day, in areas connected by rivers, local food and music events will be held, including “Ura Fest” (Ishikawacho) where food and merchandise can be enjoyed for 500 yen, “Ooka River Water Theater” (near Hino De Pier), and “Hatsukoi Market / Nokisaki Art Fair” (Hinodecho). These events aim to create vibrancy in the town by combining water and waterfront activities.

Shigenobu Oshima, chairman of the NPO “HamaBridge Hamakyo Kai,” which has promoted the construction of the new floating pier by operating the “Yokohama Canal Challenge” using temporary piers, said, “Although the river is owned by the prefecture, the city obtained permits between administrative bodies, and local operating groups manage it, making the construction of the new pier possible. We want citizens to enjoy water transportation on a daily basis.” In the future, the “Ishikawacho River Station Management Committee” will support the operation of the pier locally.

Regarding the new ship “CANALLINE,” which will make its maiden voyage from the new floating pier, a representative from Keihin Ferry Boat said, “The ship features a classical design. Its colors are inspired by the lily colors that spread from Yokohama Port to the world and the green of the shoots of Yoshida Shinden. It is designed to pass under low canal bridges. We want to connect Yokohama’s historic canals and ports, creating new waterfront vibrancy with the people of the town.”

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Ishikawacho Station

Ishikawacho Station is a railway station located in Naka Ward, Yokohama, Japan, operated by East Japan Railway Company (JR East) on the Keihin-Tohoku Line and Negishi Line. Opened in 1872, it is one of the oldest stations in Japan, originally part of the country’s first railway line connecting Tokyo (Shinagawa) and Yokohama. The station’s name derives from the Ishikawa district, an area historically associated with the Ishikawa family of samurai during the Edo period.

Nakamura River

The Nakamura River, located in Taiwan, is a scenic waterway known for its clear waters and lush surroundings, often associated with outdoor activities like rafting and hiking. Historically, the river has been an important resource for local indigenous communities and later played a role in the region’s agricultural development during the Japanese colonial period. Today, it remains a popular destination for nature lovers seeking to explore Taiwan’s natural beauty.

Ooka River

The Ooka River is a major river flowing through Yokohama, Japan, known for its scenic banks and historical significance as a key waterway for transportation and irrigation since the Edo period. It played a vital role in the region’s development, particularly during the Meiji era when it supported industrial growth and trade. Today, the river is a popular spot for cherry blossom viewing and leisurely walks, blending natural beauty with urban life.

Hori River

The Hori River, located in Nagoya, Japan, was originally constructed in the early 17th century as a canal to transport goods and materials for the construction of Nagoya Castle. Over time, it became a vital commercial waterway for the city, linking the castle to the port. Today, the river is a scenic urban landmark, with walking paths and cherry blossoms that highlight its historical and cultural significance.

Horiwari River

The Horiwari River is a historic canal located in Nara, Japan, originally built in the 8th century as part of the city’s drainage and water transport system when Nara served as the imperial capital. It once connected to the larger Nara Palace grounds, playing a key role in the city’s infrastructure. Today, the river is a peaceful, scenic waterway lined with cherry blossoms and traditional buildings, reflecting the enduring legacy of ancient Japanese urban planning.

Yokohama Hino De Pier

Yokohama Hino De Pier is a historic pier located in Yokohama, Japan, originally built in the early 20th century to facilitate maritime trade and passenger travel. It played a key role in Yokohama’s development as a major port city, particularly during the post-war period. Today, the pier has been redeveloped into a public waterfront space, offering scenic views and serving as a venue for cultural events.

Hinodecho

Hinodecho is a historic district in Yokohama, Japan, known for its role during the post-World War II occupation as a hub for the U.S. military and foreign trade. The area’s name, meaning “Sunrise Town,” reflects its development as a bustling center with bars, clubs, and markets catering to American servicemen. Today, it retains a nostalgic, retro atmosphere with remnants of its unique cultural blend.

Yokohama Port

Yokohama Port, located in Tokyo Bay, is one of Japan’s most important international trade hubs, opened to foreign commerce in 1859 following the end of Japan’s isolationist period. It played a pivotal role in the modernization of Japan, serving as a gateway for Western goods and culture, and was heavily developed during the Meiji era. Today, the port area combines historic landmarks, such as the Yokohama Port Opening Memorial Hall, with modern attractions like Minato Mirai, reflecting its rich maritime heritage.