Yagiri Ferry Crossing 矢切りの渡し

A different view of the Edo River

For history buffs, nature lovers, enka singers, and Torasan fans, a ride on the Yagiri ferry ought to be on their bucket lists. The tiny hand propelled ferry is a heritage of the shogunate which provided a subsidized means for Edo farmers to access their fields on the eastern bank of the Edo River. The ferrymen will sometimes use the outboard motor to show passengers the antique waterworks tower on the Tokyo side of the river, and will point out wildlife watching spots. The ferry is a designated national heritage spot as a preserved soundscape. On quiet mornings you can hear the breeze, the waves against the boat and bird song.