What is Yakatabune?
A yakatabune is a type of Japanese boat, which is mainly intended for enjoying meals and feasts on board. You can share a ride with others or charter with a group. There are different sightseeing courses available depending on the season, for example, blossom viewing in spring, fireworks festivals in summer, and night scenery courses in autumn and winter. Usually, the time is about 2 to 3 hours, and a course meal and alcohol are included.
Boarding Locations and Reservation
You can board Yakatabune from sightseeing spots such as Shinagawa, Asakusa, and Odaiba. It's mandatory to make a reservation for Yakatabune, and the prices, excursion route, and services of each vary depending on the operator, so please check in advance before making a reservation. It can be very crowded during the fireworks and cherry blossom season, so it's important to make a reservation early.
Recommended Yakatabune
Funasei
The inside of the boat is luxurious, and all the boats have sunken kotatsu or chairs, so you can relax and enjoy it without sitting upright. Also, you can be on board in Shinagawa which is easily accessible, and the freshly cooked tempura is reputed to be delicious.
Address: 1-chōme-16-8 Kitashinagawa, Shinagawa City, Tokyo 140-0001, Japan
Official Website: Funasei Official Website (Japanese)
Harumiya
As it is said that it is a floating restaurant, you can enjoy an authentic Japanese kaiseki dinner that is handmade one by one using high-quality ingredients such as fresh seasonal ingredients, fresh seafood, and carefully selected meat. Yakatabune is spacious and has sunken kotatsu, and at Vue Point, you can enjoy the night view of Tokyo from the rooftop deck. There are also staff who can speak English, so you can rest assured even if you can't speak Japanese.
Address: There are various boarding points in Tokyo
Official Website: Cruising Restaurant HARUMIYA Official Website
Harumiya ~Akane~
Harumiya, which I introduced above, has a luxury Yakatabune. There are only 10 seats at the counter, and you can enjoy the beautiful night view of Tokyo while watching a chef cooking in front of you. You can relish drinks and Japanese cuisine using carefully selected ingredients from all over the country. It is very popular, so early reservations are recommended.
Address: There are various boarding points in Tokyo
Official Website: Harumiya Akane Official Website (Japanese)
Conclusion
I shared one of the traditional Japanese culture "Yakatabune" with you. Please enjoy yakatabune where you can experience Japanese culture and extraordinary life.