Edogawa is a one-of-a-kind racetrack, the only one in Japan where the races take place on a river. This means the racers are not only battling each other but also going up against the river’s current. Sometimes that means that when the sea tide comes in, the waves make the boats leap right out of the water! This venue is also a treat for visitors who love urban scenery and retro Japanese vibes.
Location Details
Get at the heart of retro Japan at Boat Race Edogawa!
Located just a short distance from bustling Asakusa, known for Kaminarimon Gate, and Ryogoku, famous for sumo wrestling, Edogawa Boat Race offers a unique experience in Tokyo’s traditional downtown area. While you’re at the venue, you can enjoy a stunning view of the Tokyo Skytree, which makes for the perfect blend of old and new Japan.
Inside, the venue is decorated with retro Japanese movie posters and interior designs inspired by bamboo forests, which creates a nostalgic atmosphere with a distinctly Japanese flair. It’s an ideal spot for those who love exploring the classic charm of Tokyo’s “shitamachi” (traditional lower-town) neighborhoods.
Whether you're a racing enthusiast or just looking for a memorable outing, watching high-speed boat races with the Skytree in the background makes for a one-of-a-kind Tokyo experience.
1Assigned Seats: Miyabi
Enjoy a variety of seating options, like reclining seats, pair seats, private rooms, and more.
2Special Viewing Area: Gold (52 seats available)
This is a refined space for adults. Each seat is equipped with a personal monitor.
3Outer Sales Office BOAT RACE 365
This space on the second floor is a spot for people of all ages to hang out. There are warm colors reminiscent of European streets and the café space is reminiscent of open-air cafés in Italy.
For the most comfort, go for the Gold and Miyabi seats.
At Boat Race Edogawa, there are seating options to suit any preference, including both indoor and outdoor seating. You can also upgrade your visit by purchasing paid seating in two special areas. The Gold seating area, which allows you to watch the races in a relaxed and comfortable atmosphere, is limited to 52 seats. The other special seating area is called Miyabi—the Japanese word for “elegance.” This theme is reflected throughout its décor.
*Miyabi pair seats (2 people): Regular price is 3,000 yen, night game price is 1,500
yen.
*Miyabi group seats (4 people): Regular price is 5,000 yen, night game price is 2,500 yen.
Entertainment
Boat Race Edogawa is the perfect additional to a day spent among classic Tokyo sights. After strolling through historic neighborhoods, paying a visit to Sensoji Temple in Asakusa, and learning about a traditional sport like sumo in Ryogoku, you can get a new burst of energy as you watch a dynamic Japanese motorsport. Take in the charming retro Japanese atmosphere of the venue, the beautiful view of Tokyo Skytree, and the thrilling spectacle of high-speed boat races all at once!
A wide array of art with some surprises, mere steps away from the water!
As you stroll along the levee stands, you might be surprised to encounter a monster! Welcome to Kitaro Promenade, which features artwork from Shigeru Mizuki’s “The Fifty-three Stations of the Tokaido Road,” rendered in a distinctive, quirky style. These large illustrations complement the nostalgic charm found throughout the venue.
In the main area, you'll find 48 massive retro-style movie posters—each nearly 3 meters wide. Throughout the stadium, murals of Japanese landscapes and decorations inspired by bamboo forests create an immersive atmosphere. If you love Japanese history and culture, don’t miss the giant samurai statues at the main entrance. They are an intimidating delight!
Be on the lookout for old-fashion entertainment unique to this location
Keep an eye out for the quirky goat robot that "eats" losing bet tickets! Just hold your paper ticket up to its mouth and it’ll start munching. According to local lore, if the goat wiggles its ears, that’s a sign of only a little luck, but if it moves its feet, you’ve got medium-level luck on your side.
There are also capsule toy machines and a fun sticker-printing machine where you can create your own custom souvenir for just 300 yen. Choose your favorite design, add your name, and take home a one-of-a-kind memory from your visit!
Cuisine
Give your tummy a retro tour of Tokyo, too!
Stay immersed in the retro Japanese vibe by trying some fresh tuna dishes at Takebue, a restaurant located inside the Miyabi area. Not a fan of raw fish? No problem! You can grab something crispy and delicious at Raku, a shop that specializes in fried seafood. After all, what’s better than enjoying a great fish dish while watching thrilling water sports?
Don’t worry if seafood isn’t your thing, because we’ve got something for everyone. Head to Showa, a restaurant on the 1st floor. You can fill up with classic foods like a comforting bowl of ramen or a rich serving of hayashi rice, a hearty stew of tender beef and mushrooms in a demi-glace sauce.
Not hungry enough for a whole lunch? Eat light with these great options!
Ever been to a Japanese festival? If not, here’s your chance to get a taste of the classic festival food stall experience. Head to Chikurin, the bamboo-themed area on the 2nd floor, where you can try favorites like yakisoba (stir-fried noodles packed with flavor) or grilled chicken, perfect with your drink of choice.
Another favorite among Boat Race fans is oden, a comforting mix of fish cakes and vegetables simmered in a savory broth. It’s typically a winter dish, but here, you can enjoy it all year round!
If you're in the mood for a quick break from Japanese cuisine, grab a hot dog from CAFE 356. It's easy to carry back to your seat and enjoy as you listen to the roaring engines!
Access Information
Because it's just a stone’s throw away from popular spots like Asakusa and easily reachable from Akihabara and Shinjuku, Boat Race Edogawa is a fun addition to any Tokyo itinerary!
From Shinjuku Station
From Tokyo Station