Ideventure – take a thrilling and peaceful ride down the rice farming irrigation canals of Kikuchi.
What is it?
Ideventure is a great summer activity and it’s unique to Kikuchi Town, difficult to describe it is best to simply see it for yourself, take a look:
The crazy idea of taking an inflatable kayak down a narrow and fast flowing irrigation channel was thought up by a Kumamoto resident and beginner kayaker, he tried it, loved it and quickly realized it could be an activity that could help revitalise his rural community. So back in the summer of 2014 he began ‘Ideventure’ (Ide is Japanese for irrigation channel). With the permission of the local farmers he mapped out a route which takes you on a 30 minute ride through the beautiful Kikuchi countryside, under low barriers and through some very thrilling tunnels. The water flowing through the ‘Ide’ is from the same crystal clear underground water source that forms the river in nearby Kikuchi Valley, the temperature a refreshing 13 or 14 degrees.
When can I do it?
Ideventure is only open during the rice farming season from July to the end of September.
It also only takes place on weekends and national holidays.
There are 4 time slots per day: 10:30 13:00 14:30 16:00
How many people can do it?
Up to 14 people can take part in one time slot.
There is a maximum of 2 people per boat. Whoever is lighter sits at the front, the person at the back gets a short bamboo stick to help push off the walls. No skill is involved apart from remembering to lay down flat when you come to a barrier!
How much does it cost?
2000 Yen per adult
1,000 Yen for 4 years to 12 years old.
Children under 4 cannot take part.
How can I book?
The activity needs booking in advance and due to its popularity it is highly advisable to book as early as possible.
However, you can only book from a month in advance ie. if you want to go in July you can book from the beginning of June.
Of course occasionally there are cancellations on the day so you might get lucky.
If you have some Japanese ability and your own transport call Ideventure directly on 0968-25-7252 between 08:30 and 17:15 to make your booking.
Can I do Ideventure even if I can’t speak Japanese?
At present there are no English speaking staff at Ideventure but don’t worry you can put Ideventure into a half day customised tour with Explore Kumamoto, we will arrange your booking, take you to the activity and act as your translator to make the experience go as smoothly as possible for you. You can also put Ideventure into a full day tour by combining it with a visit to Kikuchi Valley, or a visit to Yamaga and the wonderful Yachiyoza Kabuki Theatre or how about having a truly adrenaline filled day by combining it with a visit to the Samurai swordsmith where you can learn how to wield a razor sharp Katana. Contact us to find out more.
What do I need to bring?
You need to bring swimwear or clothes and footwear you don’t mind getting wet and a change of clothes. There is a place to change in the old Elementary school which is the base for Ideventure.
You can also have lunch before or after your activity in the old elementary school where Ideventure is based, the price is 1,000 Yen and also needs booking in advance.
How long does it take?
In total the activity takes between 60 to 90 minutes with preparation etc.
Location
A 15 minute drive from Kikuchi Town, see map below:
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Address:
Kikuchi-Furusato Suigen-Kouryu-Kan1600 Hara, Kikuchi Shi, Kumamoto