Nostalgic Memories of the Kiso River

The Kiso River has been deeply intertwined with people's lives. In the past, without bridges, people had to rely on ferries to cross to the other side. Aichi Prefectural Nishi-Nakano Ferry Terminal is a precious place that evokes the remnants of that era.

Free Ferry Rides

At Nishi-Nakano Ferry Terminal, you can still take a free ferry ride. On the Aichi Prefecture side, there is a landing place for the ferry, and a ferryman is waiting. On the other side in Gifu Prefecture, the system is to call the ferry by raising a flag on a pole.

This manual calling system exudes a simple charm that is in stark contrast to modern times. It is clear that before the bridge was built, the ferry was an essential mode of transportation for the people.

A Glimpse into the River's Navigation Era

While crossing to the other side, if you gaze at the river surface and the surrounding scenery from the ferry, you may feel as if you have slipped back in time to the era when the river was the lifeline of the people. In an era without cars, what kind of emotions did people have for this ferry?

However, this remnant ferry may face the fate of being abolished once the nearby bridge is completed. In two years, this valuable experience may no longer be available. One cannot help but feel the fading memories of the people with the passage of time.

Nostalgia and Modernization Intersect

Experiencing the ferry ride at Nishi-Nakano Ferry Terminal is a great opportunity to reflect on the traditional way of life. On the other hand, the wave of modernization brought by the completion of the bridge will cause the loss of such profound scenery.

Amidst the nostalgia and the new values brought by modernization, how should we act? From this ferry standing at the intersection, we may gain a great opportunity to learn from the wisdom and way of life of the people.