旧淀川（大川・堂島川・安治川）

From a bustling port to a tranquil waterway, the story of the Kyū-Yodo River (Ōkawa, Dōjima River, Ajigawa) unfolds before us. The Kyū-Yodo River, once the main course of the Yodo River, now stands as a testament to Osaka’s ever-changing landscape. The river’s name itself reflects this transformation. Before 1907, it was simply the Yodo River. With the construction of the Yodo diversion channel, the old river became known as the Kyū-Yodo, meaning “Old Yodo.” The Kyū-Yodo River is a collection of names, varying depending on the specific section. Upstream from Nakanoshima Island, it’s called the Ōkawa, or “Large River”. As it flows around Nakanoshima, it splits into the Dōjima River to the north and the Tosabori River to the south. Further downstream, it becomes the Ajigawa. Imagine the river in its original state. A meandering path, its waters once carried goods and people through the heart of Osaka. After 1684, the river’s course was straightened by engineer Yasui Kihei, creating the Ajigawa section. The earth and sand excavated during this project formed a small mountain called Namiyosama, a landmark of that era. Though Namiyosama has since eroded, a commemorative monument stands in its honor at Chikko East Park in Minato Ward. The river’s history intersects with Osaka’s industrial development. The Ajigawa’s north bank, including Sakurajima and Umemachi, became Hokkō Port, a bustling hub for cargo ships. Tourists could even take a boat from Tempozan to Universal Studios Japan along this waterway. As containerization took hold in the 1970s, the port’s focus shifted south, leaving Hokkō Port as a reminder of Osaka’s maritime past. Even today, remnants of the Kyū-Yodo’s tributaries weave through the city. The Shironokita River, the Dōbashi River, and the Higashiyokobori River still flow, while others have vanished beneath the urban sprawl or been diverted for flood control. The Kyū-Yodo River’s story is not just about water, but about the ingenuity and resilience of Osaka’s people. They have transformed this once vital artery into a unique urban waterway, preserving its history while adapting to the demands of a modern city. As you stand here, on the banks of the Kyū-Yodo, imagine the river’s journey. It speaks of Osaka’s past, its present, and its ever-evolving future.