Okawa, Furniture Town
Okawa is one of Japan’s leading furniture production centers, with a history spanning over 480 years. Its origins date back to Kumenosuke Enotsu, who fled the Ōnin War in Kyoto and commissioned local ship carpenters to make furniture—laying the foundation for the town’s renowned craft tradition.
Beyond furniture, Okawa is also known for its intricate kumiko wooden joinery work, a delicate and highly skilled craft. Visitors can also enjoy local seafood, including the fish Etsu, which is associated with a regional legend.
Chikugo River Lift Bridge
This 507-meter-long bridge, a symbol of Ōkawa City, connects it with neighboring Saga City. Its central 24-meter section is a vertical-lift span that can be raised to allow boats to pass. Originally built as a railroad bridge, it was repurposed for pedestrian use after the rail line was discontinued. A park is located on the Ōkawa City side, making the bridge a popular local landmark.
Japanese Official Site (No Japanese Page):Okawa River Lift Bridge https://www.shoukaikyou.com
Furo Shrine
Known affectionately as “Ofuro-san” (Mr. Bath), Furo Shrine is believed to have been established nearly 1,800 years ago. According to legend, its origins trace back to Empress Jingū, who stopped here to perform ritual purification upon her return from the campaign in Korea.
More about Shinto Shrine , Click here.
Okawa Kumiko Wood Joinery
Kumiko is a traditional Japanese woodworking technique that involves assembling thinly slit pieces of wood into intricate patterns without using nails. With over two hundred traditional designs such as the “hemp leaf,” “sesame shell,” and “double-flowered cherry blossom,” craftsmen often combine them to create their own beautiful, original patterns. The craftsmanship of Okawa Kumiko has been featured in prestigious projects, such as adorning the guest rooms of the luxury tourist train “Nanatsu Boshi in Kyushu” (Seven Stars in Kyushu).
Japanese Official Site (No English Page): Okawa Traditional Crafts https://okawa-dentou.jp/dentou/kumiko/
