(Photo by Takahiro Takiguchi/Stripes Japan)

New York has the Hudson, Washington D.C. has the Potomac. London is highlighted by the Thames, while the Seine flows under the Paris sky. Rivers form an important part of most large cities throughout history. And as you know, in Japan the Sumida River flows through Tokyo.

Sumidagawa, a 27-kilometer river branching from the Arakawa River, runs through the heart of Tokyo.

Also known as Ookawa (literally, large river), it runs along the eastern side of the city, through Asakusa, Ryogoku, Nihonbashi, Tsukiji, where it eventually flows into Tokyo Bay. The river has been a symbol of unique traditional culture of Tokyo and Edo (old name of Tokyo) throughout the ages. Kabuki, Ukiyo-e, Hanabi, Sumo and most other traditional pop cultures were developed around the river.

So, strolling alongside or cruising on the river is to literally move in the footsteps of history and experience a heartline for the Edo Era.

Hop on a yakatabune, a wooden dinner boat, or the Tokyo Cruise water bus to enjoy the surrounding skyscrapers on water. Both modes of water transportation allow you to see the whopping 16 distinct bridges crossing over the river and neighboring districts.

If you’re interested in exploring by water, both are great options for you try.

Tokyo Cruise Water Bus

water bus (Photo by Takahiro Takiguchi/Stripes Japan)

Kiyosu Bridge and TOKYO SKY TREE (Photo by Takahiro Takiguchi/Stripes Japan)

TOKYO SKYTREE and the Asahi Breweries, Ltd. Headquarters Building (Photo by Takahiro Takiguchi/Stripes Japan)

Azuma Bridge (Photo by Takahiro Takiguchi/Stripes Japan)

The Tokyo Cruise Water Bus is a modern boat that operates various routes and time lengths. A one-hour ride on the Sumida River starts at about 2,000 yen per person (about $13.50) depending on the route.

When you visit Asakusa during the day, the water bus departs from Asakusa Pier. A one-hour cruise lets you enjoy famous Tokyo landmarks in the vibrant neighborhood along the river, such as Tokyo Skytree, dozens of skyscrapers in Ginza District and scenic Rainbow Bridge and Fuji TV in Odaiba, from a unique angle aboard the cruiser.

Yakatabune

Yakatabune (Photo by Takahiro Takiguchi/Stripes Japan)

Odaiba and yakatabunes (Photo by Takahiro Takiguchi/Stripes Japan)

Yakatabune (Photo by Takahiro Takiguchi/Stripes Japan)

Odaiba and yakatabunes (Photo by Takahiro Takiguchi/Stripes Japan)

The tradition of cruising on yakatabune flourished during the Edo Period (1603 – 1867) when feudal lords held lavish private parties with geisha. Today, anybody can have fun on a 2.5-hour cruise that includes refined traditional Japanese cuisine is for around 12,500 yen ($80).

The evening rides on yakatabune boats allow you to take in the dazzling night views of the city while enjoying washoku dishes like sashimi and drinks like all-you-can-drink sake, beer and cocktails.

Among dozens of yakatabune cruisers available in Tokyo, Harumiya is foreigner-friendly with English-speaking crews and clerks.

Hop on one or both for a fun summer

Summertime is an especially popular time to ride the waterbus and yakatabune as both give excellent views of the annual Sumidagawa Fireworks in late July.

There’s nothing like taking in the beautiful city from the water. It’s a refreshing activity that many locals enjoy during the hot months, so don’t miss it!

Tokyo Cruise (waterbus)

Yakatabune Harumiya

*From two participants or more. You can charter a boat with 20 or more participants.