MM21 Boats Bridge

Jul 23

Nikon D3100 + NIKKOR 55-300mm f/4.5-5.6
300 mm ISO 100 for 1/320 sec. at ƒ/8

Traditional Japanese Yakatabune Boat

Location: Kishimachi Promenade, Minatomirai, Yokohama

Timestamp: 20:18 on July 23, 2011

Although captured more than a decade ago in 2011, I still find joy in the elegant pleasure boats navigating the intricate canals that flow into the Port of Yokohama on Tokyo Bay.

Despite the grainy texture and abundant noise in the photograph, the harmonious color palette continues to be a visual delight to my eyes.

Historical records harking back to the Heian Period (794 to 1185) mention the existence of pleasure boats, a domain primarily enjoyed by nobles who reveled in poetry, music, and dining along rivers and ponds.

The Edo Period (1603 to 1867) witnessed an expansion in the use of pleasure boats catering to samurai, their families, and aristocrats. It was during this era that the iconic design of roofed boats adorned with red lanterns gained popularity.

In the present day, yakatabune boats (屋形船) are a source of enjoyment for both locals and international tourists. Springtime offers enchanting cruises along rivers adorned with cherry blossoms, while summer invites you to cruise into the Port of Yokohama for exclusive, panoramic views of vibrant fireworks and the Yokohama skyline.

While these boat cruises departing from the Minatomirai waterfront district in Yokohama are not overly expensive, they may not be the first choice for budget-conscious travelers. A two-hour lunch cruise is priced at 6,500 yen, and a three-hour dinner cruise costs 14,500 yen.

Source references:

There are quite a few different ships, which are typically fully-booked on weekend evenings. Groups of newlyweds and their guests, family or class reunions, and coworker gatherings are a common sight.

These ships need to navigate under low-lying bridges that crisscross parts of the bay. This accounts for the low profile of the boats. Their colors and lanterns create nice reflections on the water.

This is a shot of the one of the towers supporting Yokohama Bay Bridge. One of the largest suspension bridges in the Kanto area. Actually, it is one of my favorite bridges in Japan. The view from the bridge is beautiful as well!