This section of the canal network in Fushimi was once used to move barrels of sake destined for Kyoto or Osaka. The striking Gekkeikan sake brewery stands on the canal banks, and there are boats that will take tourists for a ride along the canal. Chokenji Temple, Teradaya Inn and Kizukura Kappa Museum are nearby. The canal is especially beautiful when the cherry trees are blooming along the banks.
- 1 min read
Early Spring at Fushimi Canal
Old sake warehouses reflected in calm water
By Cathy Cawood
Community writer
Gekkeikan sake warehouse stands on the bank of the canal
Traditional style buildings contrast with modern high rise buildings on opposite sides of the canal
It's a pleasant place to take a stroll or walk the dog
Boats on the canal will soon be giving tourists rides under the cherry blossoms
Gekkeikan's tall chimney
Pink plum blossom growing on the bank
The still water of the canal makes beautiful reflections
Boats moored between the cherry trees
Weeping willow branches with tiny new leaves were blowing in the breeze
Join the discussion
Lester Goh
10 years ago
Interesting what age has done to the building exteriors. The weathered (is that wood!) facade of the warehouse really gives it a flavourful touch, as if advertising silently: "we make really good sake, and we've been making them for a looong looong time~"
Some of the wooden exteriors in Fushimi are given the charcoal treatment -weather and insect-proofed by burning the surface of the boards! The lower part of the building may have been treated in this way. But you're right about it looking 'flavorful'!
Lester Goh
10 years ago
Charcoal treatment? Thats interesting. Does the treatment compromise the integrity of the structure? Hmm, well it sounds cheap to do and very visually appealling. I need to go check it out
3 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
-
1A Journey Through Western Kyushu
Nagasaki - Sponsored -
2A Taste of Shiga at COCOSHIGA
Tokyo - Sponsored -
3Exploring Japan Through the Seasons: Three First-Time Classic Tours
Culture -
4Experience Oarai: A Quiet Fishing Town Blessed by the Bounty of the Sea
Ibaraki - Sponsored -
5See Southern Japan with Kirishima As Your Gateway
Kagoshima - Sponsored -
6Discover Shiga Prefecture: Events at COCOSHIGA in Tokyo
Tokyo - Sponsored -
7An Immersive Look Into Akita’s Food Heritage
Akita - Sponsored -
8Ultimate Japan Car Culture Journey - From Auto Salon 2026 to the Open Road
Chiba -
9Miyoko Schinner: Japan Vegan Tour 2026
Food -
10Japan Pottery Tour: Hands-On Workshops & Artisan Encounters
Culture
-
1Tokyo Christmas Market
Tokyo -
2Guide to Bringing Medicines Into Japan
Planning -
3The Ultimate Guide to Thrifting in Tokyo
Shopping -
4Your Name: Real-Life Locations in Tokyo
Tokyo -
5Shibuya Blue Cave Illumination
Tokyo -
6Nabana no Sato Illumination
Mie -
7Winter in Japan: Your Seasonal Guide
Planning -
8Bad Bunny Debí Tirar Más Fotos World Tour
Tokyo -
9Tokyo Auto Salon
Chiba -
10January Grand Sumo Tournament (Tokyo)
Tokyo