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
-
1Spa Resort Hawaiians: A Tropical Escape with a Japanese Soul in Iwaki
Fukushima - Sponsored -
2A Taste of Shiga at COCOSHIGA
Tokyo - Sponsored -
3An Intellectual Journey Through Fujita Tsuguharu’s Legacy in Akita
Akita - Sponsored -
4Discover Hakodate: A Vibrant Port City in Hokkaido
Hokkaido - Sponsored -
5An Immersive Look Into Akita’s Food Heritage
Akita - Sponsored -
6Discover Shiga Prefecture: Events at COCOSHIGA in Tokyo
Tokyo - Sponsored -
7Miyoko Schinner: Japan Vegan Tour 2026
Food -
8Exploring Japan Through the Seasons: Three First-Time Classic Tours
Culture -
9Japan Pottery Tour: Hands-On Workshops & Artisan Encounters
Culture -
10Experience Oarai: A Quiet Fishing Town Blessed by the Bounty of the Sea
Ibaraki - Sponsored
-
1Guide to Bringing Medicines Into Japan
Planning -
2Tokyo Christmas Market
Tokyo -
3The Ultimate Guide to Thrifting in Tokyo
Shopping -
4Your Name: Real-Life Locations in Tokyo
Tokyo -
5November Grand Sumo Tournament (Fukuoka)
Fukuoka -
6Nabana no Sato Illumination
Mie -
7Tori-no-Ichi
Tokyo -
8Japanese Urban Legends
Culture -
9Tokyo Auto Salon
Chiba -
10Shibuya Blue Cave Illumination
Tokyo