Late February in Minakami usually has blue skies and crisp weather. It's the perfect time of year to grab your board or skis and hit the slopes. Most of the holiday crowds have dissipated as the days grow warmer. Why we decided it was a good idea to go rafting is beyond me, but here are the photos. The mid-day sun was blazing its way through the winter snow pack, swelling the river and making for some good class 3 and 4 rapids. I clothed myself in every millimeter of neoprene I owned and mentally prepared for what was going to happen.
- 1 min read
Rafting in Minakami in February
Not recommended for those who don't like the cold

By C. Rio
Community writer

This is going to be awsome (Photo: Matthew Shewchuk)

You guys have fun (Photo: Matthew Shewchuk)

Quick safety briefing (Photo: Matthew Shewchuk)

Got to stay moving to stay warm (Photo: Matthew Shewchuk)

Our fearless guide (Photo: Matthew Shewchuk)

The calm before the storm (Photo: Matthew Shewchuk)

Go!!!! (Photo: Matthew Shewchuk)
Join the discussion
Novita Syaputri
10 years ago
wow, going on rafting in a season like this??
Justin Velgus
10 years ago
Haha. So crazy!
2 comments in total
Book your trip
Find a nearby hotel
Explore some of the best nearby hotels and deals for the perfect place to stay in Japan.
Top Articles
-
1
70 Nations, One Amazing Meal
Osaka - Sponsored -
2
Japan's Best Destinations for Doing Less
Planning -
3
I’m Donut?: Japan’s Viral Donut Sensation
Culture -
4
Azumino, Japan’s Peaceful Highland Getaway
Nagano - Sponsored -
5
Tokyo Auto Salon 2026 Japan Car Tour: Cars, Culture & The Open Road
Chiba -
6
Summer in Japan: Your Seasonal Guide
Culture -
7
Miyoko Schinner: Japan Vegan Tour 2026
Food -
8
Tokyo Tops World's Best Workcation Cities for 2025
Planning -
9
Japan Pottery Tour: Hands-On Workshops & Artisan Encounters
Culture -
10
Marie's Farm
Niigata
-
1
Guide to Bringing Medicines Into Japan
Planning -
2
Gion Matsuri
Kyoto -
3
July Grand Sumo Tournament (Nagoya)
Aichi -
4
Edogawa Fireworks Festival
Tokyo -
5
The Ultimate Guide to Thrifting in Tokyo
Shopping -
6
Tenjin Matsuri
Osaka -
7
Your Name: Real-Life Locations in Tokyo
Tokyo -
8
Lantern Festival at Chidorigafuchi
Tokyo -
9
Yodogawa Fireworks Festival
Osaka -
10
Kamakura Fireworks
Kanagawa