Koi Nobori Across the Odagawa River (Held from April 20 to May 24, 2026) - A Spring Tradition of Ibara City, Yoshii Town

Every year from mid-April to mid-May, the koinobori (carp streamers) that appear along the Oda River on National Route 313 in Yoshii-cho, Ibara City is a spring tradition that started in the former Yoshii Town in 1987.

In 2026, the "Oda River Crossing Koinobori" will be displayed from April 20 (Monday) to May 24 (Sunday).

I visited the "Oda River Crossing Koinobori"

The "Oda River Crossing Koinobori" is a beloved sight for local residents and drivers as a seasonal feature of Yoshii-cho.

It started in 1987 in the former Yoshii Town, and since Ibara City was established in 2006, it has been organized by the Bichu Nishi Chamber of Commerce and Industry Youth Division Yoshii Branch.

I visited on April 20 (Monday).
National Route 313, also known as the "Romantic Road 313," is known for its scenic views.

As I was driving pleasantly, I spotted koinobori flowing in the Oda River winding through the mountains.

Next to the slogan "Compassion, the catchphrase of a car society," about 50 koinobori were lined up from one end of the river to the other, fluttering in the wind.

The location is around the Bichu Nishi Chamber of Commerce and Industry Yoshii Branch and the Yoshii Historical and Folklore Museum.

Since you cannot go down to the riverbed, you will be viewing from the roadway. National Route 313 is a fast two-lane road, so please be careful when visiting.

There is a wide space along the river, and many people were seen parking their cars and motorcycles to take photos.

Having seen koinobori in various places, I found the "density" here particularly impressive.

The close spacing of each koinobori and their tight arrangement highlight the impact when they sway in the wind.

The koinobori displayed are said to be donated by local families who no longer need them.

With the changes of the times, the opportunities for families to display koinobori have decreased. That is why I feel a renewed value in the fact that they are preserved as part of the local landscape.

"Oda River Crossing Koinobori" as seen from Konpira Bridge

If you walk about three minutes north from a place where you can see the koinobori up close, you will find "Konpira Bridge."

From here, you can see the entire view of the koinobori crossing the Oda River.
From this vantage point, you should be able to see how the koinobori are lined up straight across the Oda River.

Conclusion

As I drove along National Route 313, the koinobori caught my eye.
Even if it’s not a destination, it’s a scene that makes you want to stop and look up. The sight of them lined up and swaying in the wind felt uplifting, even for a brief moment.

When you pass by, why not take a moment to stop and enjoy the view?

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