WASEN TOMO NO KAI

This non-profit volunteer group operates a fleet of six traditional boats in a canal park in the Koto-ward section of Tokyo. They also organize excursions across Tokyo to special events. The group was founded in 1995 and their oldest boat dates back to 1960. Search the Boats section for “chokkibune” to read more about one of their boats, an Edo-era water taxi. One of the group’s goals is to teach and maintain the skills of using the sculling oar (ro) and paddle (kai). Tokyo was historically criss-crossed by canals and there was a strong tradition of boat handlers adept at these skills.

All photographs courtesy of Douglas Brooks.