When traveling within Japan, your transportation options are not limited to just the Shinkansen or airplanes. Since Japan is surrounded by the sea, ferries are actually a highly recommended way to travel. You can enjoy sightseeing during your journey, experiencing special moments that are only possible on a ferry. In this article, a travel expert will introduce the appeal of ferries, including the types of ferries and routes available, how to spend your time on board, how to make reservations, and important points to keep in mind.
*If you purchase or reserve products introduced in this article, a portion of the sales may be returned to FUN! JAPAN.
Types of Ferries in Japan and the Appeal of Car Ferries
A ferry is a large vessel that regularly operates at sea, transporting people, cars, and cargo. Since Japan is surrounded by the sea on all sides, there are many ferries of various sizes, and you can choose the most suitable one depending on your purpose and distance. Long-distance ferries that travel over 300 km one way connect major regions such as Honshu, Hokkaido, Kyushu, and Shikoku. Since these journeys often take more than one night, the ships are well-equipped with facilities. Short-distance ferries and routes to remote islands are often essential for daily life, with travel times typically ranging from several minutes to a few hours. They are indispensable for accessing remote islands.
Among these, "car ferries" are especially recommended for travelers who want to tour Japan with a rental car or their own vehicle. You can board the ferry with your car, allowing for efficient travel while enjoying beautiful ocean views.
Why Travel Experts Recommend Ferries: 5 Key Attractions
Breathtaking Scenic Cruises
The greatest appeal of traveling by ferry is, without a doubt, being able to enjoy beautiful ocean views as you travel. On routes through the Seto Inland Sea, you can see the world-famous scenery of countless islands. The ever-changing beauty of these islands is always captivating. The time when the silhouettes of the islands are illuminated by the sunset is especially stunning.Ferries traveling the Sea of Japan offer majestic, rugged coastlines and dynamic sunsets sinking below the horizon. In winter, the contrast between snow-capped mountains and rough waves is truly impressive.On long-distance ferries crossing the Pacific Ocean, you can witness the sunrise over the horizon and a sky full of stars at night.
All of these views are sure to be "Instagram-worthy." Step out onto the deck, feel the sea breeze, and enjoy the ever-changing scenery from the water at different times of day.
A Floating Hotel: Comfortable Onboard Facilities and Overnight Experience Including Panoramic Baths
Long-distance ferries are truly "floating hotels," equipped with facilities to help you relax and enjoy your journey. The best part is that you can use your travel time for both accommodation and refreshment.There is a wide variety of cabin types to choose from, depending on your budget and group size, ranging from suites with private terraces and ocean-view baths to simple Western-style rooms. Japanese-style rooms with the soothing scent of tatami are also popular.The biggest highlight is the "panoramic bath" with ocean views. Soaking in the bath while gazing out at the open sea through the windows is an unparalleled experience. Some ferries also have open-air baths and saunas.Onboard restaurants offer local specialties unique to each route, as well as exclusive onboard menus. You can enjoy dishes made with fresh seafood and experience the local culture through food. Cafés and snack corners are also available for casual use.In addition to souvenir shops, some ships are equipped with sports rooms, theaters for watching movies, game corners, and kids' rooms, ensuring you never get bored during long journeys and arrive at your destination before you know it.
Travel Freely with Your Car or Pet
The advantage of taking a ferry is that you can bring your own car or a rental car directly onto the ship and travel with it. As soon as you arrive at your destination, you can start sightseeing right away without the hassle of carrying heavy luggage. This is especially helpful in rural areas with limited public transportation or for those who want to efficiently visit multiple regions. Recently, more ferries allow you to travel with your pets, greatly expanding your travel options. In addition to dedicated pet rooms and cages, some ships offer pet-friendly cabins or even have dog runs on board. For more details, please check the websites of each ferry company.
Access to Remote Islands
Japan is home to many beautiful remote islands. For many of these islands, ferries are an essential means of transportation. As travelers, taking a ferry lets us embark on a special journey to islands that are completely different from our everyday lives. About 1,000 km south of Tokyo, you can reach the Ogasawara Islands, a UNESCO World Natural Heritage Site known as the "Galapagos of the East," by taking the ferry Ogasawara Maru, which operates once a week and takes about 24 hours. Encounters with dolphins and sea turtles, as well as breathtaking whale watching on these islands, which are a treasure trove of uniquely evolved flora and fauna, will become memories to last a lifetime.Sado Island, located in the Sea of Japan, is another fascinating remote island accessible by ferry. The island still preserves its unique culture, including rich natural scenery, the historic Sado Gold Mine, and the traditional performing arts group Kodo.
🚢Sado Kisen | Niigata to Sado Jetfoil (High-Speed Boat) One-Way Ferry Ticket Reservation
Fireworks at Sea and More! Seasonal Events and Onboard Entertainment
Many ferry companies host unique onboard events tailored to each season. For example, during Halloween and Christmas, you can enjoy special decorations and limited-time menus. In summer, there are sometimes special cruises where you can watch fireworks festivals from the deck. Fireworks viewed from the sea will leave you with unforgettable memories. The fun you can have changes with the season.
List of Ferries in Japan
Main Long-Distance Ferry Routes
| Ferry Company | Route | Travel Time | Vessel Name |
| Shin Nihonkai Ferry | Maizuru – Otaru Niigata – Otaru Tsuruga – Tomakomai East Tsuruga – Niigata – Akita – Tomakomai East | Approx. 21 hours Approx. 16 hours Approx. 20 hours Approx. 30 hours | Keyaki, Akashia Lavender, Azalea Suzuran, Suisen Lilac, Yūkari |
| Taiheiyo Ferry | Nagoya – Sendai – Tomakomai | Approx. 40 hours | Ishikari, Kiso, Kitakami |
| MOL Sunflower (Tokyo Area – Hokkaido) MOL Sunflower (Kansai – Kyushu Route) MOL Sunflower (Kansai – Kyushu Route) MOL Sunflower (Kansai – Kyushu Route) | Oarai – Tomakomai Osaka – Beppu Kobe – Oita Osaka – Shibushi | Approx. 19 hours Approx. 12 hours Approx. 12 hours Approx. 14 hours 40 minutes | Sunflower Sapporo, Sunflower Furano, Sunflower Shiretoko, Sunflower Kamui Sunflower Kurenai, Sunflower Murasaki Sunflower Gold, Sunflower Pearl Sunflower Satsuma, Sunflower Kirishima |
| Ocean Tokyu Ferry | Tokyo – Tokushima – Kitakyushu (Shinmoji) | Approx. 35 hours | Ferry Bizan, Ferry Shimanto, Ferry Dogo, Ferry Ritsurin |
| Tokyo Kyushu Ferry | Yokosuka – Shinmoji | Approx. 21 hours | Hamayū, Soleil |
| Meimon Taiyo Ferry | Osaka – Shinmoji | Approx. 12 hours 30 minutes | Ferry Kyoto, Ferry Fukuoka, Ferry Osaka II, Ferry Kitakyushu II |
| Hankyu Ferry | Kobe – Shinmoji Izumiotsu – Shinmoji | Approx. 12 hours 30 minutes Approx. 12 hours 30 minutes | Settsu, Yamato Izumi, Hibiki |
| Miyazaki Car Ferry | Kobe (Sannomiya) – Miyazaki | Approx. 12 hours 20 minutes | Ferry Takachio, Ferry Rokko |
Reference: Japan Long Distance Ferry Association Official Website
🚢Yokosuka (Kanagawa) - Shinmoji (Fukuoka) One-way ferry ticket reservation
🚢Miyazaki Car Ferry | Kobe to Miyazaki One-way Ferry Ticket Reservation
Recommended Short-Distance Ferry and Remote Island Routes
| Ferry Company | Route | Area | Features |
| Tokyo Bay Ferry | Kurihama (Kanagawa) – Kanaya (Chiba) | Tokyo Bay | Connects the Miura Peninsula and Boso Peninsula in about 40 minutes. Popular for avoiding traffic jams and sightseeing. You can also see Mt. Fuji and the Izu Peninsula. |
| Suruga Bay Ferry | Shimizu Port (Shizuoka) – Toi Port (Shizuoka) | Suruga Bay | Shortens east-west travel within Shizuoka Prefecture. The view of Mt. Fuji, a World Heritage Site, from the sea is a highlight. |
| Ise Bay Ferry | Toba (Mie) – Irago (Aichi) | Ise Bay | The shortest route connecting Ise-Shima and the Atsumi Peninsula in 55 minutes. Convenient for sightseeing at Ise Grand Shrine, Toba Aquarium, and Cape Irago. You may also see dolphins. |
| Yaeyama Kanko Ferry | Ishigaki Port – Taketomi Island | Okinawa | Famous for water buffalo cart tours. The most popular day trip from Ishigaki Island. |
| Shikoku Kisen Co., Ltd. | Takamatsu Port – Naoshima | Seto Inland Sea | The route to Naoshima, internationally known as the “Art Island.” |
| Shodoshima Ferry Co., Ltd. | Takamatsu Port – Shodoshima | Seto Inland Sea | Access to Shodoshima, famous as the Olive Island. Also known for soy sauce, with plenty of sightseeing spots such as Angel Road and Kankakei Gorge. |
🚢Sado Kisen | Niigata to Sado Jetfoil (High-Speed Boat) One-Way Ferry Ticket Reservation
Even for First-Timers Can Feel at Ease! A Guide to Booking and Boarding Long-Distance Ferries in Japan
This guide is for those taking a ferry in Japan for the first time. It covers the process from booking a long-distance ferry to disembarking, a list of useful items to bring, and important points to keep in mind.
How to Book and Fare System
Ferry reservations in Japan can mainly be made online, by phone, or at the ferry terminal counter.
Most ferry companies allow you to book online through their official websites. Many sites support multiple languages, so you can book with confidence. Reservations generally open two months before the boarding date. Check availability and select your preferred cabin type. Then, enter passenger information. If you live overseas, you will need to provide your nationality and passport number. Complete your reservation by paying with a credit card. In most cases, credit card payment is accepted. Some companies only accept reservations by phone. You can also make a reservation in advance at the ferry terminal counter.
If you plan to bring a car, you will need the vehicle information listed on the car registration certificate. If you are using a rental car and do not know the vehicle details, it is best to inquire by phone in advance. If you are traveling with a pet, advance reservation is required. Be sure to check each company’s official website for details.
Once payment is complete, an electronic boarding ticket (e-boarding ticket customer copy) will be issued. Since Wi-Fi may be unstable on board or at the port, it is recommended to save a screenshot of your ticket in advance to ensure a smooth boarding process.
From Boarding to Disembarking! A Smooth Process on the Day
Knowing the process for the day you board the ferry will help you feel at ease.
- Check-in (Boarding Procedures): Arrive at the ferry terminal at least 60 minutes before departure (90 minutes during busy periods). If you do not have an electronic boarding ticket, show your reservation confirmation number or passport at the check-in counter to receive your electronic boarding ticket. If you are bringing a vehicle, complete the necessary procedures with your car registration certificate. If you already have an electronic boarding ticket, proceed directly to the boarding gate.
- Loading Your Vehicle: If you are bringing a car, follow the staff’s instructions to drive onto the vehicle deck and park. Access to the vehicle deck is prohibited during the voyage. Be sure to bring all valuables and items you will need on board as carry-on luggage.
- Boarding: When boarding begins, present your electronic boarding ticket and enter the ship. Check your cabin number and head to your room.
- Onboard: After departure, you are free to spend your time as you like. Relax and enjoy the onboard facilities.
- Preparing to Disembark: As you approach your destination, an announcement will be made. Check that you have all your belongings and head to the disembarkation area. If you boarded with a vehicle, return to the vehicle deck and follow the staff’s instructions to disembark.
- Disembarking: Move from the disembarkation area to the terminal.
Useful Items to Bring
To make your ferry trip comfortable and enjoyable, check out these useful items and important tips to keep in mind.
- Motion sickness medicine: If you are concerned about seasickness, be sure to bring your own. There are no over-the-counter medicines available on board.
- Warm clothing: For going out on the deck or dealing with air conditioning inside the ship. Even in warm seasons, a light jacket or cardigan can be handy.
- Amenities: Yukata, pajamas, towels, toothbrushes, and slippers are often provided in private cabins, but depending on the room type, you may need to bring your own. Confirm this when making your reservation.
- Charging equipment: Outlets are available in guest rooms, but having a portable battery for your devices is reassuring just in case.
Important Points to Note
Check these important points to ensure a comfortable ferry journey.
- Seasickness prevention: If you are worried, spend time in the central or lower parts of the ship. Going out on deck and looking at the distant scenery is also effective.
- Emergency procedures: For peace of mind, check the location of life jackets and evacuation routes when you board.
- Valuables management: Take extra care of your valuables even on board. Keep them with you at all times or use the onboard lockers if available.
- Wi-Fi environment: Many ferries offer free Wi-Fi, but the signal can be unstable at sea. It is best to take care of important communications before boarding.
- Onboard etiquette: In the public bath, wash your body before entering the tub and do not put towels in the water. Please follow Japanese bathing etiquette. Be considerate of other guests and keep quiet during late-night hours.
- Checking service status due to weather: In case of typhoons or bad weather, ferry services may be canceled or delayed. Always check the latest service status on the ferry company’s website or by phone before boarding.
Recommended! Popular Long-Distance Ferry Routes
Here are some of Japan’s most popular long-distance ferry routes recommended for travelers.
Meimon Taiyo Ferry (Osaka – Shinmoji)
This ferry connects Osaka Nanko and Shinmoji Port in about 12 hours and 30 minutes, sailing through the Seto Inland Sea.
👉 Highlights! You can enjoy spectacular views of the Akashi Kaikyo Bridge, Seto Ohashi Bridge, and Kurushima Kaikyo Bridge. Depending on the departure time, you may be able to see all three bridges beautifully illuminated at night. The ship is equipped with a spacious observation bath, a kids’ room, and a restaurant. It is ideal for those who want to travel around Kansai and Kyushu by rental car.
Website: Meimon Taiyo Ferry Official Site
Shin Nihonkai Ferry (Maizuru – Otaru / Niigata – Otaru / Tsuruga – Tomakomai East / Tsuruga – Niigata – Akita – Tomakomai East)
You can enjoy a cruise while touring sightseeing spots along the Sea of Japan coast. With a wide range of facilities, even the approximately 16-hour journey is never boring. The ship features an open-air bath, a theater where you can watch movies, and a sports room. For meals, you can enjoy authentic course cuisine at the “Grill” (reservation required). Lunch and dinner using seasonal ingredients from the ports of call are highly recommended.
👉Highlights!The breathtaking scenery unique to the Sea of Japan route is a major attraction, including sunsets sinking into the Sea of Japan, Japanese capes, and islands.
Official Website: Shin Nihonkai Ferry
🚢Shin Nihonkai Ferry | Niigata to Otaru (Hokkaido) One-way ferry ticket reservation
PACIFIC FERRY (Nagoya – Sendai – Tomakomai)
This luxurious ferry, known as a “hotel on the sea,” sails across the Pacific Ocean.
👉Highlights!The ship is fully equipped with spacious lobbies, a buffet offering a wide variety of meals, a large public bath with a view, and well-stocked shops. There are also events and shows held on a large stage, providing plenty of entertainment. Recommended for those who want to enjoy a relaxing journey from Nagoya to Sendai to Hokkaido. On the foreign language web reservation site, only certain classes and a limited number of seats are available for booking. If you cannot find your desired date or class, please inquire by phone.
Official Website: Pacific Ferry
MOL Sunflower: Kansai – Kyushu Routes (Osaka – Beppu, Kobe – Oita, Osaka – Shibushi), MOL Sunflower (Oarai – Tomakomai)
This is the ferry with the longest history among existing routes. It offers a full range of services for passengers traveling with pets. You can choose a guest room that suits your style, whether you are traveling in a group, solo, or with small children.
On clear days, you can enjoy unique cruise experiences such as gazing at a sky full of stars or watching the morning sea from the panoramic public bath. The Seto Inland Sea Casual Daytime Cruise also allows you to take in the beautiful daytime scenery of the Seto Inland Sea, which cannot be seen during nighttime voyages. With plenty of time to relax on board, this cruise is highly recommended for those who want to fully enjoy a sea journey.
🚢Seto Inland Sea Casual Daytime Cruise
👉What makes it special! There is a wide selection of original Sunflower goods perfect as souvenirs of your trip. You can also purchase the popular Sunflower Curry, a favorite at the onboard buffet.
HP: Official Mitsui O.S.K. Lines Ferry Sunflower website
🚢Kagoshima to Osaka: A Scenic Journey Aboard Sunflower ferry
Make unforgettable memories on your next trip to Japan with a ferry journey!
A ferry trip in Japan is sure to be a special opportunity to experience the country’s rich culture and spirit of hospitality. Why not try a ferry journey on your next visit to Japan?
References:
Nobuo Kasakura, “Luxury Ferry Travel Guide by Regular Service: Latest Data Edition,” 2nd Edition, Kasakura Publishing Co., Ltd.
Chikyu no Arukikata Editorial Office, “Traveling Around Japan’s Fascinating Cruises with Ship Stamps,” First Edition
“Fun Ferry Journeys All Over Japan 2023-2024,” Ikaros Publishing Co., Ltd.
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