A Yakatabune is a lunch or dinner cruise in Japan.
A really, really fun thing to do with either a large group or even just as a couple is take a Yakatabune. This is a Japanese-style dinner cruise. I recommend doing a dinner cruise as the views are nicer and the vibes are higher in the evening.
PLEASE NOTE: This article contains some affiliate links. If you purchase something through one of these links, I will receive a small commission at no additional cost to you.
You pay a set amount for a dinner option (usually sukiyaki.) They can accommodate vegetarian diners- if you let them know when you make a reservation. Bring cash for soft drinks or alcohol.
Wear easy on and off shoes as you will need to take your shoes off (put socks in your bag if you have on sandals with bare feet) while on the boat and put them back on when it’s time to go onto the roof of the boat to take in the view.
You don’t have to wear a yukata or kimono – but I think it adds to the fun, no? (Make sure you wear it left over right, okay?) See here for places to buy a second hand yukata or kimono. Most people on the boat are NOT in kimono so don’t feel that you have to or anything.
This is one of the items on my “What to book for Japan with kids – and by when” article.
I loved walking on the roof of the boat. The view was spectacular.
You see, half way through the cruise they stop the boat and everyone can go on the roof – don’t worry there is a fence- and take in the view.
See how the seating isn’t sitting on the floor. Under the table is dug out so you’re still sitting in a seated position -just with your butt on the floor. This is called Horigotatsu style seating.
Children are welcome (3 years olds and older) and encouraged to join in on dancing to the live music (the teach you little actions – it’s pretty cute.
(PLEASE NOTE: Kids must be at least 3 years old to take part.)
This is the link to book a Yakatabune dinner cruise. Don’t bother booking the additional Tokyo Tower ticket (it’s just self guided and isn’t that close to the port or anything so just adds more pressure to you, as a parent. This is a stand alone special moment.
PLEASE NOTE: This article contains some affiliate links. If you purchase something through one of these links, I will receive a small commission at no additional cost to you.
(PLEASE NOTE: Kids must be at least 3 years old to take part.)
This is the link to book a Yakatabune dinner cruise. Don’t bother booking the additional Tokyo Tower ticket (it’s just self guided and isn’t that close to the port or anything so just adds more pressure to you, as a parent.
The port / departure point is 9 mins in a cab from Team Lab Planets or 4 mins in a cab from the Tsukiji Market.
