Kuma River, River system in Kumamoto Prefecture, Japan
The Kuma forms one of the longest waterways in western Kyushu, linking mountains to the coast through swift sections and calm basins. Its drainage system gathers water from forested slopes and valleys, channeling it through the prefecture toward the sea.
During the Edo period, the waterway served as a main transport route for goods and travelers moving between inland regions and coastal ports. The removal of Arase Dam in 2017 began efforts to restore the original flow and ecological conditions.
The river attracts 70,000 visitors annually for sweetfish fishing activities, which begin in June and continue through summer and fall months.
Visitors can choose between different river sections offering varying currents and scenery, with advance booking recommended through local operators. The best conditions typically occur outside rainy seasons, when water levels remain stable and visibility stays clear.
The dismantling of Arase Dam in 2017 represented the first complete removal of such a structure in Asia, opening new perspectives for river restoration. This action allowed natural sediment movement to resume and created habitats for migratory fish species that previously could not reach upstream areas.
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