About Us

AOKI CANOE WORKS Co., Ltd. – Pioneers of Paddling in Japan

 

Since our founding in 1970, AOKI CANOE WORKS has been dedicated to delivering authentic outdoor adventure experiences across Japan, centered around canoeing and rafting. We’ve trained thousands of participants through our original canoe school, River Adventure Club, which has operated since our earliest days.

 

In 1971, we established the Osaka Canoe Club to promote outdoor recreation locally.
In 1985, we launched Japan’s very first professional guided rafting tours on the Yoshino River in Shikoku—laying the foundation for modern commercial rafting in the country.

 

Our pro instructor team, Team Prijon, has trained over 35 generations of certified guides, contributing to safety and expertise across the industry.

 

In 1992, we opened our retail store Bayern in Hirakata, Osaka, offering high-quality canoeing and paddling gear.

By 1997, our leadership extended nationally, as our founder became the chairman of the Rafting Association of Japan (RAJ), advocating for the improvement of safety and service standards in the commercial rafting sector.

 

We launched Kyoto Hozugawa Rafting in 2000 and established a permanent base in Kameoka in 2003. In 2005, we opened a sea kayaking training center in Yuasa, Wakayama.

 

Our president, Isamu Aoki, received the Meritorious Award from the Japan Canoe Federation in 2008 in recognition of his lifelong contribution to paddle sports in Japan.

 

In 2019, we expanded into the hospitality field with lodging services in Kameoka, Kyoto—continuing to build new experiences rooted in nature and community.