[Held until September 23rd] Experience the traditional cormorant fishing that will brighten up the night in Ranzan , Kyoto
![[Held until September 23rd] Experience the traditional cormorant fishing that will brighten up the night in Ranzan , Kyoto](https://resources.matcha-jp.com/resize/720x2000/2025/08/22-242110.webp)
"Ukai" is a summer tradition in Ranzan , Kyoto . It is a traditional fishing method in which cormorant fishermen use cormorants to catch sweetfish on the Oi River, where bonfires are lit. You can watch the process up close from a houseboat, experiencing a culture that has continued since the Heian period while taking in the fantastic night view of the river. The event is held from July 1st to September 30th.
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Table of Contents
- What is cormorant fishing?
- Event period
- Recommended for those who want to have this experience
- Reservation method and fees
- Access from Hotel Forza Kyoto Shijo Kawaramachi to Ranzan (near Togetsukyo Bridge)
- Special plan for MATCHA readers only!
What is cormorant fishing?
Cormorant fishing, a summer tradition in Ranzan, is a traditional fishing method in which cormorant fishermen use cormorants to catch river fish such as sweetfish. It takes place on the Oi River, which flows under Oi Bridge, and a fantastic sight unfolds across the river lit by bonfires. This historic event, which has been held since the Heian period, is also popular for viewing from houseboats.
Event period
Event period: July 1st (Mon) to September 23rd (Mon), 2025
Time: Departure times in July and August are 7:00 PM and 8:00 PM, and in September are 6:30 PM and 7:30 PM (both 1 hour trips)
Recommended for those who want to have this experience
I want to experience Kyoto's traditional culture!
This is recommended for people looking for a slightly more sophisticated experience that is different from the standard tourist attractions.
I want my child to have a unique experience!
It's sure to be a unique experience for both adults and children!
Couples and married couples
It's a romantic evening out on the river, perfect for dates and anniversaries. You can enjoy the fantastic atmosphere of the river at night, lit by bonfires.
History and culture lovers
This is a must-see spot for history buffs, as you can see fishing methods that have been used since the Heian period up close.
Reservation method and fees
![[Held until September 23rd] Experience the traditional cormorant fishing that will brighten up the night in Ranzan , Kyoto](https://resources.matcha-jp.com/resize/720x2000/2025/08/25-242238.webp)
Shared boats can only be booked on the day. Reservations are required for private charters.
・Price: Adults (junior high school students and above): 2,300 yen | Children (ages 4 to elementary school): 1,200 yen | Toddlers (up to 3 years old): Free
・Contact Ranzan Tsusen: TEL 075-861-0302
Boarding location
The lanterns upstream of Togetsukyo Bridge are the landmark. You can board the boat from either of the following stops.
North Boarding Point (Postal Code: 615-8385, Kyoto City, Ukyou Ward, Tenryu -cho )
South Boarding Point ( Ranzan , Nishikyou Ward , Kyoto City , 616-0004 )
Ranzan ferry: TEL 075-861-0302
Access from Hotel Forza Kyoto Shijo Kawaramachi to Ranzan (near Togetsukyo Bridge)
Access by train
1. Board the train from Kyoto Kawaramachi Station on the Hankyu Kyoto Line
2. Transfer to the Hankyu Ranzan at Katsura Station
3. About a 10-minute walk from Hankyu Ranzan Station to Togetsukyo Bridge
Access by bus
・Take city bus route 11 from Shijo Kawaramachi bus stop
・Get off at the last stop, "Ranzan(Togetsukyo Bridge North End)"
・A short walk to the cormorant fishing platform
Special plan for MATCHA readers only!
![[Held until September 23rd] Experience the traditional cormorant fishing that will brighten up the night in Ranzan , Kyoto](https://resources.matcha-jp.com/resize/720x2000/2025/08/01-240146.webp)
Thank you for reading to the end. We have prepared a special plan with a room upgrade bonus exclusively for those who read this article! Please make your reservation through the official website below.
We travel in search of something out of the ordinary. To help you soothe your travel fatigue and relax and refresh both body and mind, we offer rooms that are not only stylish but also easy to use and comfortable, based on the concept of "a smart hotel that provides luxurious necessities and just the right amount of relaxation and sleep," in order to provide you with the ultimate relaxation experience.
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