A narrow tributary of the Yoshino that runs through the south side of the city centre, the Shinmachi-gawa has been canalised into a pleasant pedestrian promenade lined with bars, restaurants, and willow trees. In spring the cherry blossoms reflect off the water; in summer the boardwalk hosts open-air evening markets and live music.
The Ryogoku-bashi at the eastern end is the traditional viewpoint, and a short walk west takes you to the arcade-roofed Higashi-Shinmachi shopping street.