Surprising Boat Ride Price Hikes

Earlier this year I included Inokashira Park in a roundup of Seven Iconic Places for Swan Boats in Tokyo. Thankfully, I didn't include any ticket prices in that post, because on a recent visit to the park I noticed that the cost of hiring a boat had increased significantly since my last trip.

What surprised me even more was discovering that the change wasn't new at all. The revised prices actually came into effect on 6th October 2025, meaning they've been in place for around a year. However, many travel websites and blog posts still list the old rates, so it is easy to be caught off guard.

A significant change is to the park's famous swan boats. For many years, a 30-minute ride cost 700 yen, but the price is now 1,000 yen. The swan boats can accommodate up to two adults and two children, making them a popular choice for families and couples enjoying a day on Inokashira Pond. While a 300-yen increase may not sound dramatic, it represents a sizeable jump from the previous fare.

The price changes weren't limited to the swan boats. Traditional rowing boats increased from 600 yen to 800 yen per 30 minutes, while cycle boats rose the most: from 600 yen to 1,000 yen per 30 minutes. Even with the higher prices, the boats remain one of Inokashira Park's most iconic attractions, but if you're planning a visit, it may be worth double-checking current fees rather than relying on older online information.