Tokyo Sakura Yakatabune Cruise with Kaiseki Meal & Champagne
Take in the view of the Sumida River cherry blossoms from a yakatabune cruise while enjoying champagne and a multi-course kaiseki meal.
Highlights
Enjoy a flower-viewing hanami cruise along the Sumida River with unparalleled views of the cherry blossoms, whether in the day or illuminated by night
A multi-course kaiseki meal made in front of you by an expert chef served at an intimate 10-seat counter, using the finest seasonal ingredients
Free flow of premium drinks, including champagne, sake, wine, whisky and more
Traditional yet modern yakatabune (Japanese pleasure boat) experience
Exclusive access to a limited-time hanami cruise, available only during peak sakura season
10 meals
Experience Details
When sakura season descends on Tokyo, the banks of the Sumida River turn into a blushing pink wonderland, making it one of the most popular spots to enjoy hanami, or flower-viewing.
A tradition dating back to the Heian period, yakatabune, or Japanese pleasure boats, have long since been the ideal means of viewing the cherry blossoms, with nobles and courtiers taking to the water to eat, drink and make merry.
But this counter-style kaiseki cruise sets itself apart from other yakatabune experiences in a significant way. While most yakatabune have guests seated on traditional tatami mats, this luxurious cruise instead puts its passengers at an intimate 10-seat counter, at which they tuck into not a typical bento box but a multi-course kaiseki meal made before their eyes by a professional chef.
The 3-hour cruise lets you enjoy two iconic Japanese traditions at the same time. You'll experience the full range of seasonal Japanese cuisine — grilled dishes, sushi, sashimi and more, made right before your eyes at the counter. All the while, panoramic windows behind the chef give you an unobstructed view of some of Tokyo's most famous sightseeing spots, like Sumida Park and the Kototoi Bridge. Spend a relaxing time with your drink of choice in hand, ranging from Veuve Clicquot Yellow Label Brut Champagne, Japanese Chita whisky, red and white wine, or soft drinks — all of them free flow.
Both lunch and dinner options are in high demand, each providing their unique experience. The lunchtime option offers a more conventional hanami, allowing guests to live an elevated version of what a Heian courtier might have felt. But at night, Sumida's cherry blossoms light up in a breathtaking display, backlit by the glittering Tokyo skyline, making for a whimsical atmosphere.
Inclusions
Multi-course kaiseki meal, prepared in-house by professional chef
Free-flow drinks: choice of champagne (Veuve Clicquot Yellow Label Brut), wine (red and white), Japanese whiskey (Chita), and soft drinks
Boarding fee and yakatabune experience
Exclusions
Transportation cost to and from the venue
Meeting Point and Meeting Time
Harumi Wharf, a 5-minute walk from Kachidoki Station on the Toei Oedo Line. Further details and a Google Maps link will be provided on booking confirmation.
Remarks
Guests who arrive after the scheduled meeting time will not be permitted to board the cruise, and no refunds will be provided.
The cruise route may be subject to change depending on the cherry blossom blooming status.
If the minimum number of participants is not met, the cruise may be canceled.
Guests who have any food allergies or other dietary restrictions are required to inform the host at least 3 days prior to the departure.
Sakura blooming times vary depending on weather conditions, so it’s possible the flowers may not be in bloom on your tour date.
Cancellation Policy
Cancel your booking at least 2 weeks before the experience start time to receive a full refund minus a 3.2% transaction fee.
Experience Location
Over 14 million residents call Tokyo home. Functioning as Japan's economic and cultural center, it's no surprise the metropolis often appears at the top of travelers' bucket lists. Here, you can find everything from traditional tea houses to futuristic skyscrapers.
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10 meals
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