When visiting Asakusa, you have to see the Sumida river. Its wide banks and monumental bridges impress every tourist. The view is stunning and it is a perfect place to relax and sit for a moment. You can have lunch while watching boats passing by or just take a walk along the shore and enjoy the closeness of the water.
One great thing about Sumida river is that you can cruise it by ship. Tokyo Cruise offers futuristic looking boats to take you for a ride along the Sumida river. There are a few routes. Sumidagawa River Line is the shortest one and takes you to Hamarikyu Gardens, Hinode Pier and back to Asakusa. Tokyo Big Sight-Palette Town Line brings you to the most popular Odaiba spots. If you are in a hurry, there are some direct lines to Odaiba too. You can make a reservation online. To buy tickets right before the departure, go to Tokyo Cruise Center in Asakusa. It is a modern pier with a small cafe to order drinks while waiting for a boat.
Mizube Line, also called Tokyo Waterway line, belongs to another company and provides a slightly longer ride with more stops to Odaiba and Askakusa. They also navigate around the Arakawa river, Odaiba area and Kasai Rinkai Park. Other than general transportation service, they offer many special cruises to enjoy cherry blossoms in Spring and fireworks in Summer. Chartering of water-buses is also available. Boat rides can take up to two hours and they are a great way to see Tokyo from a different perspective.
The banks of the Sumida river are also perfect for jogging, cycling and family walks. It is a different way of sightseeing; sometimes more relaxing as the river side is usually less crowded than popular tourist venues. Some sites like Asahi Breweries building, Tokyo Skytower or charming houseboats are easier seen from the river bed. When strolling along the river, you should definitely stop at the Sumida Park. Another interesting spot, located in a walking distance from Asakusa, is Ryogoku Kokugikan, the place where sumo tournaments are held. When visiting Tokyo, you definitely have to see Sumida river!
