Where Tokyo Meets the Edo River | Kanamachi at Dawn

On the eastern edge of Tokyo, the Edo River has shaped the landscape, movement, water supply and everyday life of Katsushika for centuries. This quiet morning walk continues north from Shibamata into Kanamachi, following the river through a part of Tokyo where water, shrines and local culture still connect the present city with its past. Standing in the Edo River is one of Kanamachi’s most distinctive landmarks — the No. 2 Intake Tower of the Kanamachi Purification Plant. Completed in 1941, its pointed roof has become a familiar part of the riverside landscape. The surrounding scenery has also appeared in Japanese popular culture, including Otoko wa Tsurai yo and Kochikame, both closely connected with Katsushika. From the river, the walk continues to Kasai Shrine. Founded in 1185, the shrine once served as a guardian shrine for communities across the old Kasai region. Its history is also connected with Kasai-bayashi, a traditional style of festival music that spread through Edo and the wider Kanto region. The final stop is Handa Inari Shrine. During the Edo period, Handa Inari became widely known for prayers associated with protection from illness and safe childbirth. Its name spread through Edo through religious performers and later appeared in popular theater and ukiyo-e culture. A historic stone well associated with ritual purification still remains at the shrine. Walking through Kanamachi reveals another side of Tokyo — one shaped not by famous landmarks, but by the Edo River, local faith, everyday life and memories that have survived for generations. From Shibamata to Kanamachi, the river continues to connect the landscapes and stories of Katsushika. Location Kanamachi, Katsushika, Tokyo, Japan Walking Route Edo River → Kanamachi Purification Plant No. 2 Intake Tower → Kasai Shrine → Handa Inari Shrine → Shinsen Sacred Spring Remains Filming Samsung Galaxy S25 Ultra Samsung Log Filmed and photographed by K. If you enjoy quiet morning walks through Japan’s rivers, historic neighborhoods and hidden landscapes, subscribe to continue the journey. #Kanamachi #EdoRiver #Katsushika #TokyoMorningWalk #OldTokyo #JapanWalkingTour