4Bruges, Belgium
This medieval city is famous not only for its ancient fortifications but also for its beautiful waterways. In fact, the canals of this large city are often referred to as canals and centuries-old fortifications.
The waterways “The Venice of the North.” Veteran visitors note that taking a half-hour canal tour is the best way to tour the city as the canals not only connect all of the city’s major areas but being on the water offers a unique perspective. These canal boat tour services are conveniently located in numerous locations throughout Bruges.
Aveiro, Portugal, is quite more beautiful than many on the list
I all 10, no mention of Germany and it’s many rivers that traverse close to castles. I’ve heard the views are fantastic. Had hoped it would have been included herein, but also, I suppose it did not rate high enough on your scale of the ‘best’. Too bad.
Yea, I liked it, but it doesn’t have a very big canal network. But I certainly beats Birmingham in terms of beauty.
Yanagawa Japan is reknowm for its canals. Yanagawa is popular with Japanese tourists because of its 470 km of wide canals. Yanagawa riverboats, called “donkobune”, are used to take tourists around the city. In 1987 a video documentary was created by Studio Ghibli about these canals and their restoration. Yanagawa is the birthplace of Kitahara Hakushu, a Meiji era poet and writer of children’s songs. An annual three-day festival is held every November in Yanagawa complete with poetry readings, fireworks, music, and a great number of evening boat rides.
Yes, it is a popular place with Japanese tourists. It’s a noteworthy locale and undoubtedly would have made the list had the list been longer. Thanks for your support and your comment!