Here, where the waters meet and mingle, lies the Arakawa lock gate. This structure is more than just concrete and steel. It is a testament to Tokyo’s enduring relationship with its rivers.
The Arakawa lock gate stands in Komatsugawa and Higashisuna. It regulates water levels between different sections of the river. The gate allows ships to safely pass through eastern Tokyo.
Opened on October 3, 2005, the Arakawa lock gate replaced older water management systems. This area was once vital for transporting rice and soy sauce. The lock represents Japanese engineering. It integrates modern technology with traditional river navigation needs.
Climb to the top of the Arakawa lock gate. From there you get views of the waterways. You can also observe how the lock operates. It is a fascinating display of engineering. The Arakawa lock gate is only 300 meters from the historic Kyu Komatsugawa Kōmon. It facilitates water traffic. It also provides recreational space along the riverbanks.
But the Arakawa River itself has a history. The Arakawa flows 173 kilometers. It runs through Saitama Prefecture and into Tokyo Bay. Along with the Tonegawa River, it supplies about 80% of Tokyo’s water. Its name means rough river. It has flooded many times over the years. Attempts to control these floods began in the Edo period.
A major flood in 1910 led to action. From 1911 to 1924, an artificial drainage channel was built. This became the Arakawa Floodway. Authorities decided it was better than improving the Sumida River. The Sumida River was important for boat transportation of goods and people.
The Arakawa Floodway protects the people and property of the lower Arakawa Basin. The Former Iwabuchi Flood Gate was built from 1916 to 1924. It was the cornerstone of flood control. Akira Aoyama supervised the construction. He also worked on the Panama Canal. This concrete flood gate had five 9-meter-wide gates. It restricted flood water flow from the Arakawa River into the Sumida River.
Locals nicknamed it the Red Flood Gate. This came after it was repainted red in the 1950s. Today, it doesn’t work as a flood gate. The blue Iwabuchi Flood Gate replaced it downstream. The Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry has certified the Former Iwabuchi Flood Gate. It is a modern industrial heritage site.
Cross the bridge to Akasuimon Green Space on Nakanoshima. Here stands Shooting the Moon. Tadashi Aono created this sculpture. It won the Arakawa River Art Contest in 1996.
The Arakawa Museum of Aqua opened in 1998. Here you can explore the history and wildlife of the Arakawa River. The museum has exhibits on the history of the Arakawa. It also covers flood control projects and the area’s wildlife.
So, as we stand here beside the Arakawa lock gate, remember its vital role. It protects and connects Tokyo. It is more than just a structure. It is a symbol of the city’s resilience and ingenuity.