Clarification re. water bus on Sumida River

Japan-guide.com states "The Sumida River Line runs from Asakusa to Hama Rikyu garden (35 minutes, 980 yen, 1-2 boats per hour). The dock at Hama Rikyu is located within the garden's paid grounds, and admission to the garden is included in the price of the boat ticket. After Hamariku, the boats then travel a further five minutes to the Hinode Pier (40 minutes, 780 yen from Asakusa), where a transfer can be made to boats bound for Odaiba.".

I could not find any up-to-date information about this route. It seems that it might no longer exist. Every time I try to see boarding points, schedules, etc. I am switched to a cruise that doesn't stop at Hama Rikyu. Does anyone know if in fact it was discontinued?

Here's the timetable for Suijo Bus trips from Asakusa to Hamarikyu: http://www.suijobus.co.jp/en/price/?ride=asakusa&getoff=hamarikyu

Elsewhere on the site it says that there's a separate admission to Hama Rikyu. The pier is indeed within the grounds of the park.

Must we make a reservation for this, or can we simply show up? We will be in Tokyo 5 nights beginning Jan 15. Thank you.

I remember taking it once from Hamarikyu more in spring or autumn and there was definitely no need to reserve. I would be surprised that in January there is a need to reserve it.

If you have time, make sure to visit the Hamarikyu garden as well. I worked closeby and we came down for lunch to the garden frequently, even used to have a year pass. It's a very nice (and large) Japanese style garden with contrasting skyscrapers standing around.

If after that you are hungry, you can go up to the 40something floor of the buildings around Caretta and have lunch (or dinner).

Enjoy your trip to Tokyo!

I took this route last July. I reserved for peace of mind, and there were a lot of people there, but the boat was quite large so there were a lot of spare seats.

Thanks for the helpful replies1

thank you very much.