One of the Three Great Weirs of the Kanto Region and a Landmark of Seasonal Beauty
Okazeki, counted as one of the Three Great Weirs of the Kanto region, was first constructed in 1630 (Kan’ei 7) under the leadership of Ina Hanjūrō Tadaharu, the regional governor of the Kanto area during the Edo shogunate.
As part of major river works begun in the Kan’ei era (1624-1644), the Kinugawa and Kokaigawa rivers were separated to prevent flooding.
By cutting through the plateau near Todai in present-day Toride, the Kokaigawa was given its present course, flowing into the Tone River.
With this stabilization, irrigation from Okazeki’s waters gave rise to the vast reclaimed farmlands known as “Sōma Niman-goku”.
Today, Okazeki remains not only a historic feat of Edo-period engineering but also a beloved local landmark.
In spring, cherry blossoms at Suijin Cape create a beautiful riverside scene, while during Golden Week the annual “Koinobori Project in Okazeki” fills the sky with colorful carp streamers.
Family-friendly events held on Nakanoshima Island make Okazeki a place where history, nature, and community spirit come together.
