Making Yokohama the “Venice of the East” River cruise to revive water transportation Social experiment on 23rd Electric vehicle operation also: Tokyo Shimbun TOKYO Web

On the 23rd, the Yokohama Canal Challenge 2023, a social experiment aimed at restoring the river water transportation that flourished in the center of Yokohama from the end of the Edo period to the period of high economic growth and creating the “Venice of the East,” was held on the Ooka River and Nakamura River (which flow through the Kannai area). Horikawa) and other places are held halfway through the festival. The aim is not only to use it as a means of transportation, but also to turn it into a tourist resource.

It is sponsored by the Yokohama City Center Water Transportation Executive Committee, which is made up of city planning organizations and the city. Continuing from last year, a temporary pier will be installed at Horikawa near Motomachi-Chukagai Station on the Minato Mirai Line. Guided river cruises depart and arrive at a temporary pier on the Horikawa River, Yokohama Hinode Pier on the Ooka River, and Pier Canal Park at the mouth of the river. Prices range from 1,500 to 3,000 yen for adults, depending on the course.

This year, with the cooperation of Keikyu Corporation, we will operate an electric vehicle called “Green Slow Mobility” (capacity: 8 people). Starting and stopping at Hinode Pier and Nogeyama Zoo, it cruises around the Noge area and other areas at a slow speed of less than 20km/h. There will also be a Yokohama Port cruise, with light meals provided by Yokohama Motomachi Kirifuero, a French restaurant and Western confectionery shop. The price is 4,000 yen for adults.

A city official said, “We prepared the electric vehicle so that parents and children can enjoy it.We would like to verify whether the Yokohama Port Cruise is profitable as a tourist attraction.”

The “Canal Parade” that goes around both rivers, with music bands and others on board and performing, will continue as usual. Food sales and live music events are held along the coast, including in front of Hinode Pier and Makita Park (Minami Ward). For event details and boat reservations, search the information site “Yokohama COCOON” operated by Keikyu. (Shota Shimura)