Semata Koinobori

Held every spring along the Murata River in Semata, Ichihara City, Chiba, by a local volunteer group 'Semata Seiryukai'. Ropes are strung over a roughly 400m stretch between Shin-Semata Bridge and Kimigawa Bridge, and more than 120 carp streamers of various sizes glide happily above the peaceful satoyama landscape. The contrast of colorful streamers against the rural scenery is frequently featured on social media and local news. Access: about 15 min by car from Mobara-Kita IC on the Chiba Togane Expressway, or 10 min by taxi from Kazusa-Ushiku Station on the Kominato Railway. A popular stop to combine with cherry-blossom viewing or a cycling route.