【Koga Town, Ibaraki Prefecture】Annual Spectacle! The Hakuren Jump Observed Again in the Tone River This Year!

Since 2013 (Heisei 25), Koga Town in Ibaraki Prefecture has been promoting the 'Hakuren Jump'—a natural phenomenon visible in the Tone River—as one of its tourist attractions. The Hakuren Jump, now a summer tradition, features dozens to hundreds of large fish leaping simultaneously, creating a powerful and dramatic spectacle.

About the Hakuren Jump (from Koga Town's official website)

What is the Hakuren?

A fish over 1 meter long!?

The Hakuren is a species of carp native to mainland China, growing over 1 meter in length. Along with its relative, the Kokuren, it is known in Japan as 'Rengyo' and is commonly found in the Tone River and Lake Kasumigaura water systems.

When can it be observed?

It is said to occur on only one day—or at most a few days—each year. Every year from June to July, large numbers of Hakuren gather from the lower reaches of the Tone River toward spawning grounds. Group jumps involving dozens of fish may be seen several times a day, and in some cases, dozens of jumps occur. The timing is unpredictable and can vary by over a month from year to year, making it difficult to witness.

The area near Kawazuma in Koga Town serves as a natural spawning ground for the Hakuren. Each year from June to July, large numbers of Hakuren gather here from the lower river, waiting to spawn. Because so many fish congregate in one location, dynamic and impressive jumping behavior can be observed.

Updates continue this year!

Koga Town collects photos and videos from residents who assist in observing the Hakuren Jump and publishes them on the town's official website and official YouTube channel. Updates will continue throughout this season. Be sure to check out the powerful and dramatic jumps of the Hakuren!

Koga Town Official YouTube