The Tsue River, which flows in Nakatsuemura, in Hita, Oita Prefecture, is one of the headwaters of the Chikugo River. It forms a natural border between Fukuoka Prefecture to the west and Kumamoto Prefecture to the south. Along with its neighboring village, Kamitsuemura in Hita-shi, the river is positioned in the deepest part of the mountains in all of Oita.

The Tsue River, which runs through the center of Nakatsuemura, is clear and translucent, and the stream is crisp and slightly sweet. Nine tributaries flow into the river, and there are many beautiful and wonderful ravines along its course. The river fills Shimoke Dam whose scenery captivates spectators with the beauty of nature at special moments during the four seasons.

The dam is also the uppermost section of the Chikugo River and is an ideal place for catching the most delicious ayu (sweetfish). The ayu from the Tsue River is known to be first-class because of its strong, delectable scent and firm body, which has just the right amount of fat on it. Tsue River, which also satisfies anglers, is extraordinary for its clear streams.