Odagawa River-Crossing Carp Streamers (held April 20–May 24, 2026)〜 A Spring Tradition in Yoshii Town, Ibara City

Every year from mid-April to mid-May, carp streamers appear over the Oda River along National Route 313 in Yoshii-cho, Ibara City. This spring tradition was started by the former town of Yoshii in 1987.

In 2026, “Oda River Crossing Carp Streamers” are on display from Monday, April 20, through Sunday, May 24.

I visited “Oda River Crossing Carp Streamers”

“Oda River Crossing Carp Streamers” is a familiar sight to local residents and drivers, and a seasonal tradition in Yoshii-cho.

The former town of Yoshii started the event in 1987. Since Ibara City was established in 2006, the Bitchu Seinan Chamber of Commerce and Industry Youth Division’s Yoshii Branch has continued to hold it.

I visited on Monday, April 20.
National Route 313 is also known as “Romantic Road 313” and is famous for its scenic views.

As I enjoyed the drive, I spotted carp streamers over the Oda River flowing through the mountains.

Beside the slogan “Consideration: the watchword of a car-oriented society,” around 50 carp streamers were lined up from one side of the river to the other, fluttering in the breeze.

They are located near the Bitchu Seinan Chamber of Commerce and Industry’s Yoshii Branch and the Yoshii History and Folklore Museum.

You cannot go down to the riverbank, so you will need to view them from the road. National Route 313 is a busy two-lane road where traffic moves quickly, so take great care when stopping to look.

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

I have seen carp streamers in many places, but what particularly stood out here was their density.

The streamers are spaced close together and packed tightly in a row, making their movement in the wind especially impressive.

The carp streamers on display were donated by local households that no longer needed them.

As times have changed, families have had fewer opportunities to display carp streamers at home. That makes it all the more meaningful to see them preserved as part of the local landscape.

“Oda River Crossing Carp Streamers” as seen from Konpira Bridge

Walk about three minutes north from the spot where you can see the carp streamers up close, and you will reach Konpira Bridge.

From here, you can take in the full view of the carp streamers crossing the Oda River.
You can clearly see them stretching in a straight line across the Oda River.

From the Writer

As you drive along National Route 313, the carp streamers suddenly catch your eye.
Even if it is not your destination, it is a sight that makes you want to stop and look up. Seeing them lined up and fluttering in the wind lifted my spirits, even during a brief stop.

If you happen to pass by, why not stop for a moment and take a look?

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