Efforts To Promote Tokyo Sightseeing Boat Cruises To Foreign Visitors Started

Above, the Hotaluna water bus, designed by manga and anime artist Leiji Matsumoto. Photo by Armand Vaquer.

There is one way to both enjoy the sights of Tokyo and, at the same time, relax. That way is to take a cruise down one of Tokyo's waterways and Tokyo Bay. Unfortunately, not too many foreign visitors are aware of this.

I have taken a cruise down the Sumida River to Tokyo Bay twice. The first time was in 2005 and then ten years later when Denise, Aiden and I went to Japan last October. Each cruise was relaxing and enjoyable. For kaiju fans, this is one way to see some locations used in various Japanese monster movies such as Tokyo Tower, Odaiba, the Rainbow Bridge and the Kachidoki Bridge.

Above, Denise and Aiden heading back to Asakusa on the Sumida River boat last October. Photo by Armand Vaquer.

The Japan Passenger Boat Association is trying to get tour boat operators to promote their services to foreign visitors.

The Japan Times reported:

A trip to Tokyo does not necessarily mean elbowing your way through crowds. You can get fine views of the capital from a boat on the bay. 

With a drink or a meal, a short cruise is relaxing way to tour, and it shows parts of Tokyo and its history that cannot be seen from a sidewalk or a bus. 

Operators are keen to tap the steady flow of foreign tourists but bemoan the lack of information reaching them. 

At a recent gathering of industry representatives, some remarked about this missed opportunity, calling for greater efforts to publicize the many cruise options available to tourists. 

The Japan Passenger Boat Association, which represents cruise line operators, invited travel agents for a trip around Tokyo Bay on Feb. 4 to show them what is on offer and what clients can expect to see.

Above, the Kachidoki Bridge. Photo by Armand Vaquer.

I heartily recommend a cruise down the Sumida River to Tokyo Bay from Asakusa.

To read more, go here.