Yakatabune Boat

Fujifilm X100V (23 mm) with 5% diffusion filter

ISO 3200 for 170 sec. at ƒ/2.0

Velvia/Vivid film simulation


Records dating back to the Heian Period (794 to 1185) make reference to so-called pleasure boats used by nobles where they enjoyed poems, music, and dining on rivers and ponds.

During the Edo Period (1603 and 1867), the use of pleasure boats expanded to include samurai, their families, and aristocrats. It was during this period that the current design of roofed boats with red lanterns became popular.

Nowadays, yakatabune boats are enjoyed by both locals and international tourists. You can enjoy special cruises in spring where boats sail up rivers lined with cherry tree blossoms. During summer, you can take a cruise out into the Port of Yokohama to enjoy unique, uncrowded views of the many summer fireworks displays.

The ship in this shot, Suzuyoshi #10, has a capacity of 45 passengers, serves traditional Japanese cuisine that includes sushi, sukiyaki, tempura, and udon noodles, and has an onboard karaoke system.

Although relatively inexpensive, cruises on the boat in this photo are not for travelers on a tight budget with a two-hour lunch cruise costing 6,500 yen (approx. $45 USD), and a three-hour dinner cruise costing 14,500 yen (approx. $99 USD).



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Daisei Iketani

Discover Japan’s hidden gems within a day’s drive from Tokyo. From city nightscapes to serene shrines, I capture their beauty and stories—often with my loyal border collie by my side. Explore Japan beyond the guidebooks!

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