There are many ways to enjoy traveling, but if you want to experience a city or nature from a different perspective, a river cruise is highly recommended. Drifting along the water at a relaxed pace, you can take in urban landscapes and breathtaking natural scenery, making your sightseeing experience even more special. In this article, we introduce river cruises you can enjoy while traveling in Japan.
Recommended River Cruises｜Kantō Region
Water Bus Tokyo Bay Cruise｜Tokyo
If you are planning to tour Tokyo, the water bus departing from Asakusa is highly recommended. This cruise takes you along the Sumida River and the Odaiba area, offering stunning views of Tokyo from the water. One of the highlights is the “Hotaluna,” designed by the legendary manga and anime creator Leiji Matsumoto. This water bus, featuring an impressive futuristic design, operates between Hinode Pier and Odaiba. On this route, the rooftop deck opens up, allowing passengers to feel the fresh air while admiring Tokyo’s cityscape. Additionally, the night cruise offers breathtaking views of the illuminated bridges spanning the Sumida River, as well as Tokyo Skytree and Tokyo Tower glowing against the night sky. This experience provides a romantic and serene atmosphere, different from the lively daytime scenery.
Hakone Pirate Ship｜Kanagawa
A must-try attraction in Hakone, the Hakone pirate ship operates daily between three ports: Tōgendai Port, Hakone-machi Port, and Moto-Hakone Port. This cruise allows you to enjoy the grand scenery of Lake Ashinoko from the deck of a ship. The three elaborately designed pirate ships create a striking presence on the lake, adding a sense of adventure and luxury. Their unique appearance enhances the extraordinary experience, making your Hakone visit even more special. Depending on the route, you can witness a breathtaking view of Mount Fuji and the torii gate of Hakone Shrine at the same time, making this cruise a perfect opportunity for photography. Since the scenery changes with the seasons, each visit offers a fresh and unique perspective. Additionally, in early February during the Setsubun festival and in early August during the summer festival, a special fireworks cruise is held. Watching fireworks launched over the lake from the ship is an unforgettable experience. The reflection of the fireworks on the water’s surface enhances the magical atmosphere, creating a breathtaking spectacle unique to this cruise.
Kinugawa Riverboat Cruise｜Tochigi
The Kinugawa River Boat Cruise, a signature activity of Kinugawa Onsen, is a thrilling river journey that showcases the breathtaking beauty of the gorge. Covering a total distance of 6 km from Kinugawa Port to Ootoro Port, this experience allows passengers to immerse themselves in nature while navigating the dynamic waters under the skillful guidance of an experienced boatman. Along the way, visitors can marvel at unique rock formations shaped by nature over countless years. Notable landmarks include Gorilla Rock, which resembles the profile of a gorilla, and Battleship Rock, shaped like a massive warship. The boatmen’s humorous and engaging commentary adds to the enjoyment, making the journey even more memorable.
One of the biggest attractions of the Kinugawa River Boat Cruise is the opportunity to experience the changing beauty of the seasons. In spring, Yashio azaleas and mountain cherry blossoms bloom along the riverbanks. Summer brings lush greenery, creating a refreshing contrast to the clear waters. In autumn, the gorge is transformed into a vibrant display of red and gold foliage, offering a particularly stunning landscape. With its untouched natural surroundings and the thrill of navigating the river’s currents, the Kinugawa River Boat Cruise is a perfect blend of sightseeing and adventure, offering an unforgettable experience for visitors.
Sea Bass | Kanagawa
The “Sea Bass” is a waterbus that connects major sightseeing spots in Yokohama, including Yokohama Station East Exit, Minato Mirai, Red Brick Warehouse, and Yamashita Park. This convenient cruise allows visitors to enjoy a mini-cruise experience while traveling between attractions. With departures every 1 to 3 times per hour, the “Sea Bass” is an easy and affordable way to explore Yokohama, making it popular among both tourists and locals.
A special highlight is the Illumination Cruise, available on weekends and holidays. Departing from Hammerhead Pier, this cruise offers views of Kawasaki’s factory nightscape, transforming the industrial skyline into a dazzling spectacle of lights. Choosing a “Sea Bass” with a rooftop deck provides 360-degree panoramic views, making for an unforgettable experience.
Hand-Paddled Boat Tour | Ibaraki
In Itako City, Ibaraki Prefecture, visitors can experience a traditional hand-paddled boat tour, a rare and charming way to explore the waterways. These boats were once an important means of transportation in the region. Now, they offer visitors a chance to enjoy a tranquil water journey, evoking the feeling of traveling back to the Edo period. During the Suigo Itako Ayame Festival, visitors can witness “Yomeiri-bune” (bridal boat procession), where a bride dressed in a traditional white kimono rides a boat along a flower-lined waterway—a stunning scene that embodies Japan’s elegant traditions.
Recommended River Cruises｜Kansai Region
Hozugawa River Boat Ride | Kyoto
The Hozugawa River Boat Ride is Japan’s oldest river cruise, covering approximately 16 km from Kameoka City to Arashiyama. With a history spanning over 400 years, it was once an important transportation route for goods. Today, it is one of Kyoto’s most popular activities, allowing visitors to enjoy both the thrill of navigating rapids and the scenic beauty of the gorge.
The journey takes about two hours, offering a chance to admire the majestic landscapes of Hozu Gorge, where unique rock formations and seasonal scenery unfold along the way. Depending on the time of year, visitors can enjoy cherry blossoms in spring, lush greenery in summer, and vibrant autumn foliage. If lucky, they may also spot wild monkeys or waterfowl. A highlight of the trip is the moment when the boat passes the Sagano Romantic Train, providing a perfect photo opportunity.
Expert boatmen skillfully guide the vessel through the dynamic currents of Hozu Gorge, creating moments of excitement as they maneuver past rocks and rapids. They also provide humorous and engaging commentary, sharing stories about the history of Hozugawa River and its cultural significance. This combination of adventure and storytelling makes the journey an enriching experience.
The boat ride ends just upstream from Togetsukyo Bridge in Arashiyama, making it easy to continue exploring the area. After disembarking, visitors can enjoy a stroll through the Bamboo Grove or visit Tenryu-ji Temple, extending the experience with more of Kyoto’s renowned sights. With its blend of thrilling rapids, natural beauty, and historical charm, the Hozugawa River Boat Ride is a unique and memorable highlight of any Kyoto visit.
Osaka Suijō Basu Aqua-Liner | Osaka
The “Aqua-Liner” is a sightseeing water bus that offers a unique way to experience the waterways of Osaka, a city known as the “water capital.” Departing from Osaka Castle Port within Osaka Castle Park, this cruise lasts approximately 50 minutes and takes passengers past famous landmarks and historic buildings along the river. There are three vessels—No.2, No.3, and No.5—among which No.2 stands out with its colorful design featuring Osaka’s cityscape and specialties. This distinctive exterior adds to the excitement of the journey. During the cruise, passengers can enjoy water views of Osaka’s iconic landmarks, including Osaka Castle and the elegant, retro-style Osaka City Central Public Hall. Additionally, the riverbanks are lined with high-rise buildings and lush parks, creating a refreshing contrast between urban development and nature.
Himeji Han-Wasen | Hyogo
The Himeji Domain Wasen is a special cruising experience that takes visitors around the inner moat of Himeji Castle, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. From the boat, guests can look up at the majestic main keep, enjoying the same elegant atmosphere that the castle lords once experienced during their boat rides. The wooden boats, “Harima” and “Shirasagi”, used for this cruise were reconstructed to preserve cultural heritage and traditional craftsmanship. While gliding through the moat, visitors can admire the reflection of Himeji Castle on the water, appreciating its beauty from a unique perspective. Himeji Castle, also known as White Heron Castle, is famous for its striking white walls. If fortunate, visitors may also see a white heron perched in the trees, a sight that perfectly complements the castle’s elegant nickname. When visiting Himeji, this special cruise offers a rare opportunity to experience the historic beauty of the castle from the water, making for a memorable and refined sightseeing experience.
Summary
Cruise travel often involves long hours on a ship, which may feel like a high hurdle for some. However, river cruises are typically much shorter, lasting around 40 minutes, making them an easy and enjoyable experience. They fit seamlessly into sightseeing plans, allowing visitors to appreciate Japan’s unique landscapes from a different perspective. Additionally, a river cruise can make a trip even more special. Enjoy the distinctive scenery of Japan’s waterways from the deck of a boat and experience a memorable journey from a new vantage point.
