Above, a yakatabune pleasure boat docked on the Sumida River in Tokyo. Photo by Armand Vaquer. |
Taking a yakatabune pleasure dinner boat cruise in Tokyo is one thing that I haven't done yet. I have seen several boats docked along the Sumida River over the years. Maybe I'll do so the next time I go to Japan
Fortunately, others can do so now that coronavirus restrictions are being lifted in Japan.
The Japan Times reported:
A Tokyo yakatabune pleasure boat operator has resumed service after halting operations in mid-January due to a coronavirus outbreak among customers and employees.
Funasei Ltd. had been hit by negative rumors and comments, as well as numerous reservation cancellations, because it was seen as a spreader of the then largely unknown disease.
“Now we’ll look ahead to keep the torch of tradition burning,” said manager Yoko Ito, 67.
On Thursday evening, Ito, clad in a yellowish green kimono, and other Funasei employees were busy cleaning and sanitizing a roofed pleasure boat reserved for about 10 customers ahead of their arrival.
Social distancing measures were fully in place, with up to four customers accepted for each table for eight. Ventilation and disinfection were conducted frequently.
That day, the boat sailed alone on the Sumida River and near the Odaiba waterfront area in Tokyo Bay.
To read more, go here.
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