If you've ever strolled along the riverfront or visited a popular tourist spot near around Tokyo Bay, especially at night, you may have noticed long lantern-draped boats slowly cruising along.

Known as yakatabune 屋形船 (literally "mansion boats"), these boats were a favorite of Japanese feudal lords. The interior has a tatami floor and tables, and you can walk on the roof to enjoy the view.

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Tokyo Yakatabune Dinner Cruise from Voyagin

Travel service Voyagin has an offer specially geared towards foreign visitors to Japan in which you can experience a yakatabune dinner cruise in Tokyo Bay.

Dine on a Japanese meal featuring fresh tempura, and take advantage of an open bar as you celebrate a special event or simply enjoy this unique experience.

To mark the occasion, you will also take part in 'kagami biraki.' Invented during the Tokugawa Shogunate, the ceremony involves opening a sake barrel with wooden mallets. Afterwards, all present enjoy the sake itself. It often takes place at weddings, parties and New Year celebrations, and is a great way to add a little bit of traditional flair to your evening.

As well as drifting past Tokyo's waterfront as you eat and drink, the boat will stop near major landmarks, like the Tokyo Skytree and the Rainbow Bridge. Here, you can step out onto the roof and fully appreciate the lights from buildings and other boats reflecting off the water.

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The cruise costs 13,000 JPY (incl. tax) and the boat can accommodate up to 30 guests.

See all the details and sign up here.