Watarase River, River and railway valley in Tochigi and Gunma, Japan.
The Watarase River flows over 100 kilometers from mountain sources through four prefectures to its mouth in the Tone River. The valley is lined with forests and farmland, with a narrow-gauge railway running through the region.
The river was redirected in the 17th and 18th centuries to protect land from flooding and create new cultivable areas. This alteration of its course shaped the development of surrounding regions for centuries.
The Watarase Valley Railway lets passengers watch how the landscape changes with the seasons as they travel through the valley. This connection between people and the river's environment has shaped how locals relate to this waterway.
The river has multiple access points along its course for outdoor activities and exploration. The narrow-gauge railway operates during daylight hours and offers a convenient way to experience the valley.
The narrow-gauge railway partly follows the route of a historic railway, giving it a distinctive character. The line connects communities that would otherwise be difficult to reach.
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