Located in the heart of Tokyo’s waterfront, Hinode Pier serves as a central hub for sea transportation and as a gateway to the city’s many coastal attractions. Its convenient location, combined with its efficient and varied water transport services, make it a great option for those seeking a unique perspective of Tokyo.
Overview of Hinode Pier
Hinode Pier, also known as Hinode Sanbashi, is situated on the eastern edge of the Minato ward, nestled between the picturesque Hamarikyu Gardens and the innovative entertainment complex of Odaiba. The pier is a bustling maritime hub, with regular water buses (also known as “suijo basu”) offering services to locations around Tokyo Bay.
Aside from its practical function, the pier gives you stunning views of the Tokyo skyline and the Rainbow Bridge, especially magical at sunset when the city and bridge lights start to twinkle against the evening sky.
Getting to Hinode Pier
The accessibility of Hinode Pier adds to its appeal. You can reach it via the Yurikamome Line, an automated guideway transit service offering scenic views of Tokyo’s waterfront area. Get off at the Hinode Station, and a short walk will take you to the pier.
Cruising from Hinode Pier
One of the main draws of Hinode Pier is the chance to explore Tokyo from the water. The Tokyo Water Bus operates from the pier, providing regular services to key waterfront locations such as Asakusa, Odaiba, and the Tokyo Big Sight convention center in Ariake.
In particular, the Sumida River Line to Asakusa is a favorite among tourists. The cruise offers a unique perspective of Tokyo’s mix of old and new, passing under 12 bridges and offering views of the Tokyo Skytree, Asahi Beer Hall, and other iconic landmarks.
The pier is also the departure point for the Tokyo Bay Night Cruise, a romantic voyage that showcases Tokyo’s mesmerizing nighttime cityscape.
Services
Hinode Pier in Tokyo is a bustling hub for marine transportation. Below are the main services that depart from the pier:
- Tokyo Water Bus: The Water Bus is a popular public water transit service, connecting different parts of Tokyo through the city’s waterways. The main lines departing from Hinode Pier include:
- Asakusa Line: This line goes up the Sumida River, under 12 bridges, offering picturesque views of the Tokyo Skytree, Asahi Beer Hall, and other iconic landmarks. The final stop is Asakusa, which is home to the famous Senso-ji temple.
- Odaiba Line: This line takes you across Tokyo Bay to the futuristic island of Odaiba, known for its entertainment facilities, shopping centers, and the teamLab Borderless digital art museum.
- Hama-rikyu Line: This line offers a short trip to the beautiful Hamarikyu Gardens, an Edo Period landscape garden with a teahouse where you can experience a traditional Japanese tea ceremony.
- Tokyo Bay Night Cruise: The Night Cruise gives you a romantic journey around Tokyo Bay. You can enjoy a sumptuous dinner onboard while admiring the mesmerizing nighttime cityscape of Tokyo, including the illuminated Rainbow Bridge and Tokyo Tower.
- Symphony Cruise: The Symphony Cruise offers a luxury cruise experience on Tokyo Bay. The ship features live music performances and fine dining options, offering passengers an elegant way to appreciate Tokyo’s skyline day or night.
- Tokyo Big Sight Line: This line offers a direct connection to Tokyo Big Sight, one of the largest convention and exhibition centers in Japan, in Ariake.
Please note that the schedules and operating hours for these services can vary, so it’s best to check the official websites or the information board at Hinode Pier for the most up-to-date information.
Nearby Attractions
Hinode Pier’s location in Minato means that you’re never far from some of Tokyo’s best attractions. Adjacent to the pier is the traditional Hamarikyu Gardens, an Edo Period garden boasting seasonal flowers, tea houses, and a central pond.
A short water bus ride away is Odaiba, home to attractions such as the teamLab Planets, Palette Town, and the replica Statue of Liberty.
The Sum Up
For a transport hub to explore Tokyo’s waterfront attractions, as a departure point for a romantic night cruise, or as a vantage point for some cityscape photography, the pier offers a unique and memorable Tokyo experience.
