Hama-rikyu Gardens and Water Bus: A Mini Cruise on Tokyo Bay
Discover the beauty of a historic Japanese garden and enjoy a traditional matcha experience at Hama-rikyu Gardens, nestled in the heart of Tokyo. From the garden, embark on a water bus for a mini-cruise along the Sumida River to Asakusa. We propose a special day to forget the urban hustle and bustle, rediscovering Tokyo's charm from the water.
Jul 24, 2026·✍️ olablog·⏱ 9 min read
Discover the beauty of a historic Japanese garden and enjoy a traditional matcha experience at Hama-rikyu Gardens, nestled in the heart of Tokyo. From the garden, embark on a water bus for a mini-cruise along the Sumida River to Asakusa. We propose a special day to forget the urban hustle and bustle, rediscovering Tokyo's charm from the water.
Tap a region to browse articles
Hama-rikyu Gardens (浜離宮恩賜庭園) is an oasis sprawling in the heart of Tokyo. Its charm lies in the unique landscape, where the history of an Edo period (江戸時代) daimyo (feudal lord) garden intertwines with modern skyscrapers. Here, you can immerse yourself in traditional Japanese culture with a matcha tea experience, followed by a mini-cruise on Tokyo Bay (東京湾) via water bus. The views of Tokyo from the water are exceptional, and the boat trip to Asakusa (浅草) is sure to become an unforgettable memory.
History and Highlights of Hama-rikyu Gardens
Hama-rikyu Gardens is a metropolitan garden located in Chuo Ward, Tokyo (東京都中央区). During the Edo period, it served as a detached residence for the Tokugawa shogunate family (徳川将軍家). It boasts numerous historical highlights, such as the "Tidal Pond" (潮入の池), which changes its appearance with the ebb and flow of the tide, and the "Duck Hunting Ground" (鴨場), where duck hunting was once practiced. Notably, the Tidal Pond, which draws seawater from Tokyo Bay, is a precious and unique feature, being the only one of its kind still existing in Tokyo.
Within the garden, visitors can enjoy the beauty of nature at various spots, including the "Pine of 300 Years" (三百年の松), believed to be 300 years old, and the "Flower Fields" (お花畑), where seasonal flowers bloom. The expansive garden landscape, set against the backdrop of urban skyscrapers, truly symbolizes the coexistence of Tokyo's past and present.
An Elegant Matcha Experience at Nakajima no Ochaya Teahouse
In the center of Hama-rikyu Gardens' Tidal Pond, accessible by crossing the "Otsutai-bashi Bridge" (お伝い橋), stands the "Nakajima no Ochaya Teahouse" (中島の御茶屋). Here, you can savor traditional Japanese matcha tea and wagashi (和菓子 - Japanese sweets) while gazing at the beautiful garden. The reflection of the teahouse on the water's surface is picturesque, allowing you to immerse yourself in the atmosphere of a time when shoguns entertained their distinguished guests.
The matcha experience offers a valuable opportunity to connect with Japanese culture. A cup of matcha enjoyed in tranquility will help you forget the daily hustle and bustle. Tea ceremony (茶道) experience events with English explanations have been held in the past, making this activity highly recommended for international visitors.
Nakajima no Ochaya Matcha Experience Information (as of July 2026)
- Location: Nakajima no Ochaya Teahouse within Hama-rikyu Gardens
- Content: Matcha and wagashi (Japanese sweets)
- Price: An additional fee applies, separate from the garden admission fee. Please check the official Hama-rikyu Gardens website for the latest prices and serving hours.
A Mini Cruise on Tokyo Bay by Water Bus
Hama-rikyu Gardens has a water bus pier, allowing you to embark on a boat directly after exploring the garden and discover new charms of Tokyo. The water bus route towards Asakusa, in particular, is a popular choice, offering passengers a scenic journey up the Sumida River (隅田川) past a captivating blend of historic bridges and modern skyscrapers.
Onboard, announcements provide insights into the unique bridges spanning the Sumida River (such as Azuma-bashi Bridge (吾妻橋) and Kiyosu-bashi Bridge (清洲橋)) as well as famous places and historical sites, allowing you to learn about Tokyo's history and culture. In spring, cherry blossom viewing cruises along the riverbanks are also popular. This approximately 40-minute boat trip offers a truly unique mini-cruise experience, allowing you to rediscover Tokyo's appeal from a different perspective than on land.
Water bus tickets can be purchased at the pier or booked online in advance. Especially on weekends and during tourist seasons, congestion is expected, so advance booking is recommended for a smooth boarding experience. You can book water bus tickets and over 300 other admission tickets, cruises, and passes with instant confirmation at Book Sightseeing Tickets & Passes.
Water Bus Route and Highlights from Hama-rikyu to Asakusa
The water bus route from Hama-rikyu to Asakusa heads north along the Sumida River. From the boat, you can experience Tokyo's diverse facets all at once, starting from the high-rise buildings of Shiodome (汐留) and Shimbashi (新橋), passing the former Tsukiji Market (築地市場) site, and finally reaching the charming downtown area of Asakusa.
Along the way, you'll see 12 bridges, each with a distinct design and history, with onboard announcements explaining their appeal. The view from the boat becomes even more dramatic as you approach landmarks around Asakusa, such as the Asahi Beer Headquarters Building (アサヒビール本社ビル) and Tokyo Skytree® (東京スカイツリー®).
Water bus services are operated by two companies: Tokyo Cruise Ship Co., Ltd. (東京都観光汽船) and Tokyo Mizube Line (東京水辺ライン). Each offers different types of boats and operating schedules. You can choose the most suitable service according to your travel plans.
Basic Information for Hama-rikyu Gardens and Water Bus (as of July 2026)
Hama-rikyu Gardens
| Item | Details |
|---|---|
| Address | 1-1 Hama-rikyu Gardens, Chuo-ku, Tokyo |
| Opening Hours | 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM (Last admission at 4:30 PM) |
| Closed | December 29 - January 1 |
| Admission Fee | Adults: 300 JPY (approx. $2.00) Over 65: 150 JPY (approx. $1.00) Elementary school students and younger, and junior high school students residing in Tokyo: Free |
| Contact | Hama-rikyu Gardens Service Center: 03-3541-0200 |
| Official Website | https://www.tokyo-park.or.jp/park/format/index028.html |
Access Information
Accessing Hama-rikyu Gardens by train is convenient.
- Otemon Gate (大手門口)
- 7-minute walk from Tsukijishijo Station (築地市場駅) or Shiodome Station (汐留駅) on the Toei Oedo Line (都営地下鉄大江戸線)
- 7-minute walk from Shiodome Station (汐留駅) on the Yurikamome Line (ゆりかもめ)
- 12-minute walk from Shimbashi Station (新橋駅) on the JR (Japan Railways) Line, Tokyo Metro Ginza Line (東京メトロ銀座線), or Toei Asakusa Line (都営地下鉄浅草線)
- Naka-no-Gomon Gate (中の御門口)
- 5-minute walk from Shiodome Station (汐留駅) (Exit 10) on the Toei Oedo Line or Yurikamome Line
- 15-minute walk from Hamamatsucho Station (浜松町駅) on the JR Line
It is also possible to enter the garden directly by using the water bus.
Nearby Tourist Attractions
Around Hama-rikyu Gardens, there are several tourist attractions that further enhance Tokyo's appeal.
- Tsukiji Outer Market (築地場外市場): Within walking distance of the garden, Tsukiji Outer Market offers fresh seafood and a lively market atmosphere. It's perfect for trying street food and souvenir shopping.
- Caretta Shiodome (カレッタ汐留): The high-rise building "Caretta Shiodome" features a free observation deck called "Sky View" (SKY VIEW), offering panoramic views of the Rainbow Bridge (レインボーブリッジ) and Tokyo Bay from 200 meters above ground. The night view is also stunning, making it a popular spot for dates.
- Ginza (銀座): Ginza, Japan's premier luxury shopping district, is also located close to Hama-rikyu. From long-established department stores to the latest trend shops and theaters, there are various ways to enjoy this vibrant area.
Why not combine these spots to plan a day that fully savors the charm of Tokyo? You can find guided tours that efficiently cover major Tokyo tourist destinations by checking See Day Tours from Tokyo.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q. What are the highlights of Hama-rikyu Gardens? A. Hama-rikyu Gardens offers a wide range of highlights. Particularly famous are the "Tidal Pond" (潮入の池), which draws seawater from Tokyo Bay, the "Nakajima no Ochaya Teahouse" (中島の御茶屋) floating on the pond, the "Pine of 300 Years" (三百年の松) with its 300-year history, and the "Flower Fields" (お花畑) where seasonal flowers bloom. The contrast between the urban high-rise buildings and the historic garden is also one of its unique charms.
Q. Is it necessary to book the water bus in advance? A. While you can board the water bus without a reservation, it is advisable to book in advance, especially on weekends, during tourist seasons, or the cherry blossom period, as congestion is expected. Tokyo Cruise Ship Co., Ltd. (東京都観光汽船) accepts online reservations for most routes, so advance booking is recommended for smooth boarding. Please check the official website for reservation status for departures from Hama-rikyu.
Q. Is eating and drinking allowed inside the garden? A. Eating and drinking are permitted inside the garden, but playing with equipment (such as balls or jump ropes) is not allowed. If you wish to use a mat for resting, please use the Uchibori Plaza or Outdoor Table Plaza. Nakajima no Ochaya Teahouse offers matcha and Japanese sweets.
Q. Is the matcha experience available with English explanations? A. To confirm whether the regular matcha service at Nakajima no Ochaya Teahouse (中島の御茶屋) offers English support, it is best to contact the Garden Service Center (庭園サービスセンター) directly. In the past, events such as the "Tokyo Grand Tea Ceremony" (東京大茶会) have featured outdoor tea ceremonies and tea seats with English commentary.
Q. How long does the water bus take from Hama-rikyu to Asakusa? A. The water bus journey from Hama-rikyu Gardens (浜離宮恩賜庭園) to Asakusa (浅草) takes approximately 40 minutes. Onboard, there are announcements about the bridges over the Sumida River (隅田川) and surrounding tourist spots, allowing you to enjoy a comfortable boat trip while taking in the scenery.
The tranquil time spent at Hama-rikyu Gardens, where Tokyo's history and modernity intersect, combined with a mini-cruise on Tokyo Bay by water bus, will undoubtedly make your Tokyo trip even more memorable. Be sure to plan your journey with OlaChill and discover the hidden charms of Tokyo.
