Aiba Waterway

What to know

The Aiba Waterway (Aibagawa) is a canal that flows southeast of Hagi's former castle town. Built in the early 18th century, it served local residents for daily tasks. Small boats transported goods like firewood and rice, while the water was used for farming and fire prevention.

Today, the canal no longer serves its traditional roles; colorful carp swim in its waters instead of boats. A stroll along the waterway in this quiet neighborhood is delightful, and a couple of historic residences are open to the public, showing how the canal was cleverly integrated into home life.

The beautiful Yukawa Residence is a prime example of how the Aiba Waterway was once used daily. Inside, stone steps lead down into the canal for washing vegetables and dishes. In the bathroom, an opening in the floor allows direct access to the canal for bathing, with wooden blinds for privacy. Water from the canal also flows into the garden, creating a lovely pond.

The Katsura Taro Residence was the home of Katsura Taro, three-time prime minister of Japan during the Meiji and Taisho periods, in his younger days. It was moved to its current location in 1909. The residence features elegant tatami rooms and a garden with a stream fed by the canal. A pebble drain in front of a wash basin produces cheerful, bright sounds when water flows into it.

The Yukawa Residence and the Katsura Taro Residence are just a short walk from each other. They are a 10-15 minute stroll along the Aiba Waterway from the Aibagawa Iriguchi bus stop on the Maru Bus West Loop line.