Tokyo’s waterways offer a unique way to see the city’s bustling skyline, historic sights, and scenic landscapes from a different perspective. Whether you want a peaceful cruise past Tokyo Tower or an energetic dinner with traditional performances, Tokyo’s boat tours deliver. Some standouts include the Tokyo: Mt. Fuji, Hakone, Lake Ashi Cruise and Bullet Train, which combines mountain views, hot springs, and a bullet train ride—all in one day—perfect for travelers wanting a comprehensive day trip. Meanwhile, the Sumida River: Japanese Traditional Yakatabune Dinner Cruise offers an authentic, laid-back evening with delicious food and stunning Tokyo Bay views. With options for scenic daytime cruises, lively dinner parties, and cultural shows, there’s a boat tour in Tokyo for every interest.
Quick Overview
This list covers 15 of the best boat tours & cruises in Tokyo, showcasing a wide range of experiences. From half-day city cruises and elegant dinner cruises to full-day excursions visiting Mt. Fuji and Hakone, you’ll find options tailored to sightseeing, food, culture, and adventure. Some tours include local performances and traditional Japanese meals, while others focus on breathtaking scenery and photo opportunities. Check out the full lineup below to find the right water-based adventure for your trip.
1. Tokyo: Mt. Fuji, Hakone, Lake Ashi Cruise and Bullet Train
This comprehensive day trip is perfect if you want to see Mount Fuji and Hakone without the hassle of planning transport. It includes visits to the Mt. Fuji 5th Station, a cruise on Lake Ashi, a ride on the Hakone Ropeway, and a bullet train back to Tokyo. The tour is highly rated (4.4/5 from over 4,300 reviews) for its efficiency and variety. The guide takes care of logistics so you can focus on enjoying views of Japan’s most iconic mountain and the lush scenery of Hakone. It’s especially suitable if you’re short on time but want a full experience—lunch at the foot of Fuji is included, and the bullet train adds a memorable touch.
Bottom line: An all-in-one option that balances scenery, culture, and convenience for about $168.
2. Sumida River: Japanese Traditional Yakatabune Dinner Cruise
For a relaxing evening, this Yakatabune dinner cruise is a top pick. Rated 4.6/5 from over 600 reviews, it combines delicious Japanese cuisine with views of Tokyo Skytree and Tokyo Bay. As the boat glides along the Sumida River, you’ll pass under bridges, see illuminated landmarks, and enjoy all-you-can-drink sake and beer. The traditional boat adds a genuine touch, making it a favorite for those wanting an authentic Japanese experience with a laid-back vibe. The price is about $105, and most guests leave feeling they’ve had a memorable, culturally rich night.
Bottom line: Perfect for a peaceful, scenic evening with good food and local atmosphere.
3. Mt Fuji & Hakone Cruise, Drum Show Bus 1 Day from Tokyo Sta. Area
This full-day bus trip offers an economical way to see Mount Fuji, Lake Ashinoko, and even enjoy a traditional drum performance. The tour hits the 5th Station, where you get incredible views from 2,300 meters. The highlight is the pirate ship cruise on Lake Ashi, providing great photo ops and a sense of adventure. The tour is rated 5.0/5 based on nearly 200 reviews, with guests praising its organization and guide.
Bottom line: Great value for a comprehensive, scenic day out—perfect if you prefer a guided bus experience with cultural extras.
4. Mt. Fuji & Hakone: Fuji Sengen Shrine, Cruise, and Ramen-Making
This full-day tour combines mountain views, cruise, and a hands-on ramen cooking experience. It includes a visit to Oshino Hakkai, famous for clear spring water ponds, and a shrine with panoramic views of Mt. Fuji. The unique feature is the ramen-making class, where you craft your own noodles and enjoy them afterward. Rated a perfect 5.0/5, travelers love the mix of culture, scenery, and food. The tour is best suited for foodies and culture seekers wanting an active, immersive day. Weather can affect the Mount Fuji visibility, but the experience remains memorable.
Bottom line: An engaging, all-in-one experience combining sightseeing, local culture, and culinary fun for about $129.
5. Dynamic Tokyo: Tokyo Tower, Tea Experience, Bay Cruise Day Tour
This city highlights tour covers Tokyo Tower, Imperial Palace, temples, and a bay cruise. It’s perfect if your time is limited but you want a well-rounded overview. It includes a traditional tea ceremony, a lunch buffet, and entry to Tokyo Tower. Rated 4.5/5 from nearly 500 reviews, travelers appreciate the smooth organization and knowledgeable guide. The combo of land, water, and cultural sights makes it a flexible choice for first-timers.
Bottom line: An efficient, cultural, and scenic tour ideal for a full day in Tokyo for about $107.
6. Tokyo Dinner Cruise & Tradition Show & Drinks & Tokyo Tower
Combining dining, live traditional music, and night views, this dinner cruise is rated 4.7/5. It’s a 100-minute boat ride aboard a Japanese houseboat, with entertainment including shamisen performances and views of Rainbow Bridge and Tokyo Tower. The meal is a hot pot sukiyaki, and drinks are included. It’s a lively, culturally immersive experience, best for those wanting both a meal and entertainment on the water.
Bottom line: Short but spirited, ideal for a fun evening with authentic performances and citylights for about $94.
7. Tokyo Bay Yakatabune Dinner/Day Cruise with Japan Show & Drinks
This longer cruise lasts around 1.5 hours and features live Japanese performances plus a sukiyaki dinner. The open-air deck offers great photo ops of Rainbow Bridge and Tokyo Tower. It’s rated 4.5/5 and is suitable for travelers wanting a traditional meal combined with fun entertainment on the water. The price is budget-friendly at around $46.
Bottom line: A lively, affordable way to enjoy Tokyo’s waterfront with entertainment and food.
8. Tokyo: Hakone Fuji Day Tour w/ Cruise, Cable Car, Volcano
This full-day tour focuses on Hakone’s volcanic landscapes, Lake Ashi, and Mount Fuji views. It includes a pirate ship cruise on Lake Ashi, a ride on the Hakone Ropeway, and a visit to Owakudani, famous for its black eggs cooked in volcanic springs. Rated 4.1/5, it appeals to travelers interested in geology, scenery, and hot springs. The tour is great for an active day with multiple viewpoints.
Bottom line: A well-rounded day for those curious about volcanic activity and natural beauty, at about $88.
9. Tokyo: Seagull Feeding or Sunset Bay Cruise with Local Guide
A short, relaxing cruise rated 5.0/5, this Seagull Feeding or Sunset Bay offers a peaceful way to see Tokyo Bay. Departing from Shibaura Dock, the cruise passes Tokyo Tower, Hama Rikyu Gardens, and Rainbow Bridge. Its intimate size allows closer views and interaction with the guide for about $52.
Bottom line: Ideal for travelers seeking a low-key, scenic break on the water with expert local insights.
10. Tokyo: Mt. Fuji Cruise & Hakone Ropeway Day Trip by Bus
Another excellent day trip that combines Mt. Fuji views, a cruise on Lake Ashi, and the Hakone Ropeway. Starting from Shinjuku, it offers scenic views and the chance to see the floating torii gate. It’s rated 5.0/5 from a small sample of reviews, and the tour provides luxury seats and local commentary.
Bottom line: A budget-friendly, scenic option for those who want a full-day adventure without the hassle of independent planning.
11. Tokyo: Spectacular View Cruise in 90 Minutes
A short, high-impact cruise rated 5.0/5, it offers panoramic views of Tokyo’s skyline, including Tokyo Tower and Rainbow Bridge. With options for day or night cruises, it’s perfect for a quick snapshot of Tokyo from the water. Guests enjoy light snacks and drinks while learning about the landmarks.
Bottom line: A quick, scenic escape—great if you’re short on time but want memorable city views for about $71.
12. Tokyo: Fuji 5th St & Hakone Day Trip with Cable Car & Cruise
This easy day trip combines Mount Fuji’s 5th Station with Hakone’s volcanic scenery. It includes a cruise on Ashinoko Lake, cable car rides, and a visit to Gotemba Premium Outlets. The tour is rated 4.4/5 and suits travelers wanting a straightforward, scenic experience with shopping opportunities.
Bottom line: A practical choice for seeing Fuji and Hakone, especially if you enjoy a mix of nature and shopping.
13. Tokyo Sunset Boat Party with Music, Drinks, and Vibes
Perfect for nightlife lovers, this sunset boat party offers live DJ sets, drinks, and spectacular views of Tokyo Tower and Rainbow Bridge. It runs about 3 hours and creates a lively, fun atmosphere for those wanting to combine music with Tokyo’s skyline. Guests rave about the vibrant energy and breathtaking city lights.
Bottom line: A late-evening choice for party-goers seeking a festive vibe on Tokyo Bay.
14. Tokyo Day Tour in Mt. Fuji, Lake Ashi Cruise and Owakudani Cable
This full-day sightseeing tours combines Mount Fuji, Lake Ashi, and Owakudani, including cruise, cable car rides, and volcanic scenery. It’s ideal for travelers interested in geology and scenic vistas, rated 4.5/5. It also includes a visit to Hakone Shrine and the chance to sample local black eggs.
Bottom line: A comprehensive, activity-rich day perfect for curious travelers wanting diverse experiences.
15. Yakatabune Dinner Cruise & Tokyo Tower & Japan Festival Dance Show
This cultural dinner cruise combines traditional music, a scenic boat ride, and a show at Tokyo Tower. It lasts about 4 hours, with a sukiyaki dinner and Japanese dance performances. The cruise offers views of famous Tokyo landmarks and a chance to experience Japan’s festive side. Rated 5.0/5, travelers love the authentic atmosphere and entertainment—a fitting choice if you want a mix of sights, food, and culture.
Bottom line: An immersive cultural experience, ideal for those wanting to combine dining, entertainment, and city views in one night.
How to Choose the Best Boat Tour in Tokyo
When selecting your ideal cruise, consider your budget, interests, and time constraints. For a full-day adventure combining Mt. Fuji and Hakone, the Tokyo: Mt. Fuji, Hakone, Lake Ashi Cruise and Bullet Train is hard to beat. If you prefer a relaxing evening with authentic food and local entertainment, the Sumida River Dinner Cruise or the Yakatabune Dinner Cruise & Tokyo Tower & Japan Festival Dance Show are excellent choices.
For shorter experiences or nighttime city views, consider the Spectacular View Cruise or the Sunset Boat Party. If you’re interested in cultural performances and traditional music, look into cruises with live shows and authentic cuisine.
Final Thoughts
Tokyo’s water-based tours offer a diverse range of experiences, from peaceful scenic cruises to lively dinner parties with entertainment. For a comprehensive day trip that hits all the highlights, the Mt. Fuji, Hakone, Lake Ashi Cruise and Bullet Train makes a compelling choice. For those who want to experience authentic Japanese culture in a relaxed setting, the Yakatabune dinner cruise is hard to beat. And for the night owls, the Sunset Boat Party offers a lively, fun atmosphere.
To get the most out of your water adventures, book early—especially during peak seasons—and choose a tour that matches your interests and budget. Whether you’re after spectacular views, cultural entertainment, or just a relaxing boat ride, Tokyo’s waterways have something special waiting for you.