The Story of the Ishikari River: The History of the Great River and the People Who Walked Together

This book depicts the lives of the people who lived alongside the Ishikari River, Hokkaido's longest river. During the Meiji era's pioneering period, the river basin saw the use of water transportation to encourage settlement by garrison soldiers and pioneer groups, but was also plagued by repeated floods. The latest technology was introduced into flood control projects, which expanded farmland and became the driving force behind Hokkaido's growth into a major food-producing region. Following the "56 Flood" that caused great damage in the summer of 1981, various flood control plans were attempted, but the river is now facing new challenges due to climate change caused by global warming. Featuring historical photographs and illustrations, this book looks back on the struggles and coexistence of the people with the Ishikari River.