Shichiri-no-Watashi Remains
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Shichiri-no-Watashi Remains

3.8
·449 reviews·桑名市, Japan

Explore the historical Shichiri-no-Watashi ferry landing, a vital Tokaido crossing with a grand torii gate to Ise Shrine.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Afternoons

Pleasant breeze, good light

CrowdLow
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Shichiri-no-Watashi Remains

Shichiri-no-Watashi Remains

Best Time

Afternoons

Pleasant breeze, good light

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Explore the historical Shichiri-no-Watashi ferry landing, a vital Tokaido crossing with a grand torii gate to Ise Shrine.

3.8
(449 reviews)

"A well-maintained and beautiful place with great views, perfect for a historical stop."

Vertical photo
TIP

🚗 Free Parking Available

Two free parking lots are nearby, including disabled parking. Kakinoyasu Community Park is a good option.

🚲 Great for Cyclists

The well-maintained embankment road offers scenic views, perfect for a cycling stop.

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Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Restored Ferry Landing

Restored Ferry Landing

Ibi River bank

Step back in time at this well-maintained ferry landing, evoking Edo period travel scenes.

Great Torii Gate

Great Torii Gate

Near the ferry landing

A grand torii gate marks the historic route to Ise Shrine, a significant pilgrimage point.

Scenic Embankment Road

Scenic Embankment Road

Along the Ibi River

Enjoy picturesque views and a pleasant breeze on this well-kept path, perfect for cycling.

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Planning Your Visit

Timing Your Visit to Shichiri-no-Watashi

Consider visiting during the afternoon for pleasant weather and fewer crowds. While the historical significance is year-round, the gentle river breeze and well-maintained paths are best enjoyed when it's not too hot. Check local event schedules for potential festivals.

Getting to the Remains

Access is straightforward with nearby free parking, including options for disabled visitors. While some park further away, the Kakinoyasu Community Park lot is a good option. The site is accessible by bicycle, making it a scenic stop on a longer ride.

Best Times

When
Afternoons
Why
Pleasant breeze, good light
Crowd
Low
When
Weekdays
Why
Fewer visitors
Crowd
Low

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

🚗 Free Parking Available

Two free parking lots are nearby, including disabled parking. Kakinoyasu Community Park is a good option. Reddit

🚲 Great for Cyclists

The well-maintained embankment road offers scenic views, perfect for a cycling stop. Reddit

📜 Historical Context

Imagine Edo period travelers crossing the river to Ise Shrine. Compare views to ukiyo-e paintings. Reddit

🏞️ Scenic River Views

Enjoy the open sea and pleasant sea breeze along the Ibi River. Reddit

Tips

from all over the internet

🚗 Free Parking Available

Two free parking lots are nearby, including disabled parking. Kakinoyasu Community Park is a good option. Reddit

🚲 Great for Cyclists

The well-maintained embankment road offers scenic views, perfect for a cycling stop. Reddit

📜 Historical Context

Imagine Edo period travelers crossing the river to Ise Shrine. Compare views to ukiyo-e paintings. Reddit

🏞️ Scenic River Views

Enjoy the open sea and pleasant sea breeze along the Ibi River. Reddit

What Travellers Say

3.8
(449 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors praise the Shichiri-no-Watashi Remains for their well-maintained historical features and scenic riverfront location. The free parking and pleasant atmosphere make it an enjoyable stop, especially for cyclists and those interested in historical travel routes. Some note the historical context is best appreciated with prior research.

"Across the river from Shichiri Ferry in Atsuta. Old Tokaido.

After the Honnoji Incident, Tokugawa Ieyasu crossed Iga and returned to Okazaki from this wharf via the wharf in Atsuta.

It was a very well-maintained and beautiful place. It's in a great location and I recommend it. There were two free parking lots nearby, but I parked in the parking lot at Kakinoyasu Community Park, which is a little further away. Free parking for the disabled."

夏草や兵どもが夢の跡

"Visited on July 31, 2025, in the afternoon.

The remains of an old ferry landing on the banks of the Ibi River in Kuwana City.
I was cycling around Kuwana that day, stopping off at Kyuka Park before coming here.
The nearby embankment road is well-maintained, offering great views, and there's even a restored Kuwana Castle tower nearby.
There's a large torii gate here, and it reminds me of the time when people would cross the river from the ferry landing south of Atsuta Shrine to Ise Shrine, disembark here, and head to Ise Shrine."

高木カルロス

"This is the first time I've properly visited the world-famous Shichiri no Watashi Ferry. As a child, I used to look at old maps of Japan and wonder, "I wonder if travelers could just relax for a moment by not walking across this ferry?" However, there's a theory that Shichiri no Watashi was actually surprisingly unpopular back then. Most common people's purpose for traveling the Tokaido was to visit Ise Shrine. Apparently, if they didn't also visit Tsushima Shrine or Tado Shrine, it was called a "one-way pilgrimage," so many people chose to take the land route that passed through these shrines. I guess I'm also a fan of the land route. The "since I'm here, I might as well..." mentality hasn't changed since ancient times."

ノーリー

What People Like

Well-maintained historical site
Scenic river views
Free parking available

What People Dislike

Limited onsite amenities

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

The remains are located across the river from Shichiri Ferry in Atsuta, on the banks of the Ibi River in Kuwana City. There are two free parking lots nearby, with one at Kakinoyasu Community Park being a slightly further but viable option. Reddit

Yes, there are two free parking lots available, including designated parking for disabled visitors. Reddit

Absolutely! The embankment road along the Ibi River is well-maintained and offers great views, making it a popular route for cyclists. Reddit

The name 'Shichiri no Watashi' refers to a sea route that connected Kuwana and Owari Atsuta, covering a distance of seven ri (approximately 28 km). Reddit

The site is generally easy to find, especially if you are familiar with the area around Atsuta Shrine or Kuwana Castle. Look for the large torii gate near the riverbank. Reddit

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

No, there are no admission fees to visit the Shichiri-no-Watashi Remains. It is an open historical site. Reddit

As an outdoor historical site, Shichiri-no-Watashi Remains are accessible at any time. However, visiting during daylight hours is recommended for the best experience. Reddit

There is no entrance fee for the Shichiri-no-Watashi Remains. It's a free historical landmark to explore. Reddit

While the site is technically accessible at night, it is not recommended due to lack of lighting and safety concerns. Daylight hours offer the best and safest viewing experience. Reddit

Official guided tours are not commonly advertised for the Shichiri-no-Watashi Remains. However, you can enhance your visit by researching its history beforehand or using local information resources. Reddit

🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience

You can see the remains of an old ferry landing, a large torii gate that marked the route to Ise Shrine, and enjoy the scenic embankment road along the Ibi River. Reddit

Yes, the historical elements like the torii gate and ferry landing, combined with the river views, offer great photographic opportunities, especially when comparing to historical ukiyo-e paintings. Reddit

It was a crucial sea route on the Tokaido, used by travelers, including Tokugawa Ieyasu, to cross the river on their journeys, particularly to Ise Shrine. Reddit

Restroom facilities and shops are not directly mentioned at the remains themselves, but are likely available in nearby parks or community areas like Kakinoyasu Community Park. Reddit

Imagine the Edo period travelers and compare the current scenery with historical ukiyo-e paintings to fully immerse yourself in the historical atmosphere. Reddit

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

While specific dining options directly at the remains are not mentioned, nearby parks and community areas in Kuwana City are likely to have local eateries or cafes. Reddit

The scenic embankment road and nearby parks offer pleasant spots for a picnic. It's advisable to check local regulations regarding picnicking in specific areas. Reddit

Kuwana City is known for its local cuisine, which may include seafood given its coastal location. Exploring local restaurants would offer the best culinary experience. Reddit

Food stalls are not typically associated with historical remains like Shichiri-no-Watashi. It's best to plan for meals before or after your visit. Reddit

If arriving from Atsuta, you might find more dining options there before crossing, or explore the restaurants available in Kuwana City upon arrival. Reddit

📸 📸 Photography

The large torii gate, the restored ferry landing, and the scenic views along the Ibi River embankment are prime locations for photography. Reddit

Yes, the preserved historical elements and the river setting provide an excellent backdrop for historical reenactment photography. Reddit

Afternoons often provide good lighting and a pleasant atmosphere. Early morning or late afternoon can also offer beautiful light for landscape shots. Reddit

Definitely! Many visitors find it fascinating to compare the current scenery with historical ukiyo-e paintings of the Shichiri no Watashi crossing. Reddit

Generally, there are no specific restrictions on personal photography at this outdoor historical site. However, always be respectful of the area and any other visitors. Reddit

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

The Shichiri-no-Watashi Remains offer a gentle introduction to Japanese history for families. The well-maintained embankment road is perfect for kids to run around or cycle on, enjoying the open space and river views. The large torii gate can spark imagination about ancient journeys and the significance of Ise Shrine. Reddit

While there aren't specific play areas, the historical context can be made engaging by talking about how people traveled in the past. Pack some snacks and drinks for a simple picnic by the river, making it a relaxed outing. The free parking and easy accessibility make it a convenient stop for families exploring the Kuwana area. Reddit

🚴 Cyclists and Outdoor Enthusiasts

For cyclists, the Shichiri-no-Watashi Remains are a fantastic stop along the Ibi River embankment. The path is well-maintained and scenic, offering pleasant riding conditions with lovely views. It's an ideal spot to pause, take photos, and appreciate the historical significance of the area. Reddit

Consider incorporating this visit into a longer cycling route around Kuwana. The proximity to other attractions like Kyuka Park and the restored Kuwana Castle tower means you can easily build a full day of exploration. The availability of free parking is also a bonus for those arriving by car and planning to cycle around the site. Reddit

🚶 History Buffs and Culture Seekers

History enthusiasts will appreciate the historical significance of the Shichiri-no-Watashi as a key crossing point on the Tokaido. The restored ferry landing and the torii gate offer tangible connections to the Edo period and the important pilgrimage routes to Ise Shrine. Reddit

To deepen your understanding, research the historical context of the Tokaido road and the role of ferry crossings. Comparing the current landscape with historical ukiyo-e prints can be a particularly rewarding activity, bringing the past to life. The site provides a quiet space for reflection on Japan's rich travel and spiritual history. Reddit

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The Historical Significance of Shichiri-no-Watashi

The Shichiri-no-Watashi was a vital sea route on the ancient Tokaido road, connecting Kuwana with Owari Atsuta across a distance of seven ri (approximately 28 km). This crossing was not merely a ferry service; it was a critical link for travelers, including historical figures like Tokugawa Ieyasu, who used it during his return to Okazaki after the Honnoji Incident. The name itself, 'Seven Ri Crossing,' highlights the considerable distance and effort involved in traversing this waterway. Reddit

Historically, the Shichiri-no-Watashi played a significant role in pilgrimage routes, particularly for those heading to the revered Ise Shrine. While some theories suggest it was less popular than land routes for common travelers due to the desire to visit other shrines like Tsushima or Tado, its strategic importance for major journeys and historical events is undeniable. The site today, with its restored ferry landing and the prominent torii gate, serves as a tangible reminder of this bygone era of travel and its connection to Japan's spiritual heartland. Reddit

It's fascinating to note how the landscape has changed. Due to land reclamation efforts, the coastline has receded significantly, meaning the 'sea' at Kuwana is now much further out than it was during the Edo period. Despite this, the open expanse of the Ibi River and the pleasant sea breeze still evoke a sense of the historical crossing, allowing visitors to connect with the past. Reddit

Experiencing the Site Today

Visiting the Shichiri-no-Watashi Remains today offers a peaceful and scenic experience. The embankment road along the Ibi River is well-maintained, making it ideal for a leisurely stroll or a cycling tour. The gentle river breeze and the expansive views contribute to a relaxing atmosphere, a stark contrast to the arduous journeys of historical travelers. Reddit

The most striking features are the restored ferry landing and the large torii gate. The torii gate, in particular, stands as a monumental marker for the pilgrimage route to Ise Shrine, inviting contemplation on the spiritual journeys undertaken centuries ago. Many visitors find it rewarding to compare the current landscape with historical ukiyo-e paintings of the crossing, bringing the past to life through visual comparison. Reddit

Practical aspects like free parking enhance the visitor experience. With two parking lots available, including disabled access, and the option of arriving by bicycle, the site is accessible and convenient. While there are no immediate dining facilities, the surrounding areas in Kuwana City offer opportunities to refuel after exploring the historical remnants. Reddit

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