Tokyo Landmarks Yakatabune Experience: Scenic Views & Local Flavors
15,400
Step aboard a beautifully designed yakatabune (traditional Japanese houseboat) and enjoy a relaxing river cruise paired with exquisite seasonal cuisine. Glide past the Rainbow Bridge, Odaiba, Sumida River, and Tokyo Skytree while dining in a refined Japanese setting.
The cruise features sunken kotatsu seating in a spacious and climate-controlled cabin, with wide windows and an open-air sky deck offering panoramic 360° night views. This join-in cruise is ideal for solo travelers, couples, and small groups looking for an immersive yet accessible cultural dining experience.
Highlights
- 90-minute evening cruise through Tokyo Bay and Sumida River
- Authentic Japanese seating with under-table leg space (horigotatsu-style)
- Rooftop sky deck with unobstructed 360° city views
- Multi-course seasonal Japanese meal (kaiseki style)
- Free-flow drink plan: beer, sake, wine, whiskey, soft drinks
- Vegetarian and allergy-friendly meals available upon request
- Smooth, stable ride with clean onboard restroom facilities
Cruise Route
The cruise departs from Ryogoku and begins along the historic Sumida River, offering close-up views of charming riverfront neighborhoods and iconic bridges such as Kiyosubashi. As the boat makes its way out toward Tokyo Bay, the scenery transforms into a dazzling modern skyline:
- Tokyo Skytree: Towering over the riverside, this 634-meter broadcast tower is especially impressive from water level.
- Kiyosubashi Bridge: A beautiful example of Taisho-era architecture.
- Rainbow Bridge: Cruise directly beneath this illuminated suspension bridge that connects central Tokyo with Odaiba.
- Odaiba Waterfront: A futuristic cityscape filled with shopping malls, entertainment complexes, and the famous Ferris wheel.
- Tokyo Tower (from a distance): A nostalgic landmark inspired by the Eiffel Tower, visible as the cruise loops back.
Throughout the journey, you’ll enjoy a unique blend of old and new Tokyo—traditional neighborhoods, neon-lit skyscrapers, and sweeping waterfront panoramas.
Route may vary slightly depending on the date, tides, or operational conditions.
Schedule & Boarding
- Departure Pier: Ryogoku Pier (3-minute walk from JR Ryogoku Station)
- Departure Times:
- Weekdays: 7:00 PM
- Weekends & Holidays: 6:00 PM
- Duration: Approximately 90 minutes
- Meeting Time: Please arrive at least 20 minutes before departure
Detailed meeting instructions with map will be emailed after booking
Cuisine: Sample Menu
A carefully crafted kaiseki-style course featuring seasonal and regional specialties:
Furisode Gozen (¥15,400 per adult, tax included)
- Two seasonal appetizers
- Five-item seasonal appetizer plate
- Sashimi: tuna, sea bream, amberjack
- Simmered vegetables and tofu roll with savory sauce
- Domestic beef sukiyaki hotpot
- Tempura fried fresh onboard
- Mixed rice with bamboo shoots and sakura shrimp
- Japanese pickles
- Warabi mochi (bracken-starch dumpling) with brown sugar syrup
Child Meal (for ages 6–12): ¥7,700 (tax included)
-
A simplified and kid-friendly Japanese meal with tempura, rice, dessert, and soft drinks
Infants (under 6):
- May join free of charge if not occupying a seat or requiring a meal
- Optional meal add-on available upon request
Menu subject to seasonal variations. Please notify us in advance of any dietary restrictions.
What’s Included
- 90-minute yakatabune cruise along Tokyo Bay and Sumida River
- Multi-course Japanese kaiseki meal
- Free-flow drink package (alcoholic and non-alcoholic options)
- All taxes and service charges
- Seating in horigotatsu-style cabin
- Use of onboard restroom facilities
What’s Not Included
- Transportation to/from the pier
- English-speaking guide or host (staff speak basic Japanese only)
- Optional meal for infants under 6 (unless requested)
- Travel insurance or personal expenses
Important Notes
- This is a shared experience with other guests onboard
- Children are welcome; kids’ meals are available on request
- Cruise operates rain or shine (covered indoor seating available)
- Cruise may be canceled or modified in case of extreme weather
- Limited English spoken onboard; non-verbal assistance available
Looking for something more private?
We also offer two exclusive upgrades:
Private Charter Cruises – Ideal for company events, family celebrations, and group gatherings. These cruises require a minimum of 20 guests on weekdays (25 on weekends and holidays) and allow for full customization of the cruise route, meal plan, and entertainment. Optional add-ons include geisha performances, traditional lion dance, live music, and more.
VIP Counter-Style Kaiseki Cruise – Akane – Designed for intimate and refined occasions, this ultra-premium cruise accommodates up to 10 guests in a modern Japanese setting. Guests are seated at a live chef’s counter where a full-course seasonal meal is freshly prepared and served with curated sake or wine pairings. Perfect for luxury travelers, anniversaries, or corporate hosting.
Additional Information
Boat Cabin Height
The interior cabin height is approximately 180 cm (5 ft 11 in). Guests taller than this should take caution when walking inside the cabin, particularly near low beams and door frames.
Motion Sickness and Alcohol Consumption
If you are prone to motion sickness, we recommend taking medication in advance. Please follow instructions if combining with alcohol. While drinks are unlimited, we ask guests to drink responsibly for a pleasant and safe onboard experience.
Age Requirement
This cruise welcomes guests of all ages and is especially suitable for families with children.
Payment
All bookings are payable via Stripe (Booking Checkout) or Flywire. Confirmations regarding your booking will be sent at least 10 days before your activity date.
Cancellation Policy
- Cancellation fee of 100% is charged if cancelled 14 days or less before the event
- Cancellation fee of 50% is charged if cancelled 21 days or less before the event
- Cancellation fee of 25% is charged if cancelled 30 days or less before the event
Q&A
What are the menu options for the meals?
Guests are served a full-course Japanese kaiseki meal onboard, featuring seasonal appetizers, sashimi, hot dishes like sukiyaki and tempura, and dessert. A child-friendly version is available for ages 6–12. Free-flow drinks are included (beer, sake, wine, whiskey, soft drinks). Menus may vary slightly by season.
What should I wear on the cruise?
Comfortable, casual clothing is recommended. As guests will be seated on tatami floors with recessed leg space, shoes must be removed upon boarding. We suggest bringing a light jacket or scarf, especially for the evening cruise or if you plan to visit the open-air sky deck.
Is the cruise suitable for children and elderly guests?
Yes, the cruise is suitable for all ages. Children are welcome, and child meals are available upon request. The boat features horigotatsu-style seating (floor-level with legroom), and staff are available to assist. Please note that the interior cabin height is approximately 180 cm (5 ft 11 in).
Can I bring my own food or drinks on board?
Outside food and beverages are not permitted. However, a generous free-flow drink package is included in your plan, and additional beverages or upgrades may be available onboard.