TOKYO, Could 14 (News On Japan) –
Tokyo’s push for river-based commuting is gaining momentum with the launch of a brand new weekday night ferry route connecting Gotanda and Tennozu.
Beginning Could 14th, the 35-minute journey alongside the Meguro River prices 900 yen a technique. The route gives commuters a substitute for packed trains, with a scenic experience that features views of riverside greenery and, in spring, cherry blossoms.
The Tokyo Metropolitan Authorities has been creating water transport choices since fiscal 2023 to advertise smoother journey and waterfront revitalization. That is the third such route, following earlier providers linking Nihonbashi and Toyosu in October 2023, and Harumi and Hinode in Could 2024. The brand new line is geared toward staff heading dwelling within the night, with operations scheduled from late afternoon into the evening.
Whereas some customers reward the stress-free various—citing open-air views, a refreshing sea breeze, and crowd-free seating—value and time stay hurdles. The brand new Gotanda-Tennozu route takes greater than twice as lengthy and prices over twice as a lot because the rail various, which entails a 15-minute journey on the Yamanote and Rinkai traces for about 420 yen. Moreover, the boats haven’t any roof and could also be suspended in poor climate.
Regardless of these drawbacks, Tokyo Governor Koike sees long-term worth in water commuting. On Could twelfth, she emphasised its potential in catastrophe response, noting that river transport can keep away from highway congestion and function an emergency instrument. A Tokyo official additionally acknowledged that the objective is to increase river journey from tourism into on a regular basis life whereas boosting the vibrancy of waterfront districts.
Although the initiative nonetheless leans closely towards leisure use, the town hopes it should develop right into a viable commuting possibility with broader advantages for city mobility and neighborhood improvement.
Supply: FNN
