Many folks don’t realize that Tokyo grew up on the water of Tokyo Bay. Long before it became the world’s largest metropolis, it was a port city, and remains so today. However, its lost its look and character as such because so many manmade islands have been created offshore in the bay. In looking at it from Google Maps, the coastline of Tokyo is basically a puzzle of blocks, squares and rectangles covered up with shipping containers and distribution hubs.
But you can enjoy Tokyo from the water the way it used to be, or at least get an idea. Within the eastern central part of Tokyo there are numerous canals that are used today for fishing, transport and sightseeing. To experience this hidden gem of Tokyo, we suggest renting a Tokyo Water Taxi.
The Tokyo Water Taxi is a literal taxi service on the water that will take you where you want to go (provided it stop/starts at one of more than 20 locations on the water. That is, they have preset routes you can take, or you can create your own. Its not inexpensive, but the smallest boats can accommodate up to eight people, so spreading it out between a large group makes sense, however, for the ultimate, rent it just for yourself and your significant other. Compared to the other sightseeing boats, this is so much better. On other other boats, you’ll often be one of several dozen tourists packed in like sardines, but not with Tokyo Water Taxi. Here, you’ll be the first class passengers on your own vessel along with an experienced boat captain. Bring your own food and drinks if you’d like and enjoy a meal on the water.
The boats are cozy, comfortable and even have a lavatory on board. You’re able to stand out on the stern deck and take in the sites. Along the way, you may pass through narrow canals lined with stone embankments, old residential areas, modern office towers and sometimes pass historic dinner boats that are available for dinner cruises. You may venture out into the bigger waters of the bay and disembark on Odaiba to experience TeamLab Planets or Diver City.
Regardless of your route, you are bound to enjoy the Tokyo Water Taxi, a literal off the beaten path in Tokyo because there is no path!.
