Perhaps you’ve heard whispers of a bygone era. It was an era when the Sumida River was crossed not by bridges but by humble ferries. Today we stand at the former site of one such ferry. This is the Tsukudajima Ferry.
The Tsukudajima Ferry once played a vital role. It connected Tsukuda to the opposite shore. For about 320 years this ferry served the people of Tokyo. Its history stretches from the Edo period into the Showa era.
Imagine a time when subways were scarce. For residents of Shintomi a trip to Tsukishima meant a long detour. They could take the train over Kachidoki or Eitai Bridge. Alternatively they could journey to Sumiyoshi Shrine. From there the Tsukudajima Ferry offered a direct route. For youngsters the free ferry was very attractive.
The Tsukudajima Ferry wasn’t just for pedestrians. Cyclists also used it to reach destinations like Harumi and Toyosu. The ferry became an indispensable part of daily life.
Consider the vessel itself. The ferry was a coal-fired steam-powered boat. Adorning its smokestack was the emblem of Tokyo. A crew member manned the rudder at the stern. The Tsukudajima landing was on the right. In the backdrop were Tsukuda’s preserved houses and Sumiyoshi Shrine.
Imagine the ferry bustling with passengers. The cabin had four entrances. It offered seating for 24 people. Life vests were stowed in the cabin. The journey across the river took only about ten minutes. The cabin lacked heating. Passengers closed the windows during winter. In summer they preferred the open deck.
The Tsukudajima Ferry ceased operations when the Tsukuda Bridge was built in 1964. The ferry’s long history came to an end. However the ferry’s legacy remains. It serves as a reminder of Tokyo’s rich waterways. It represents a vital chapter in the city’s transport history.
Today a stone monument marks the spot. It stands as a silent tribute. It reminds us of the Tsukudajima Ferry’s contribution. It reminds us how it once connected communities. The stone marker is located in Tsukuda Park.