32. FERRIES IN JAPAN

FERRIES

⛴️ Traveling by Ferry in Japan: A Scenic and Relaxing Way to Explore 🇯🇵

Japan’s ferry network connects the country’s main islands (Honshu, Hokkaido, Shikoku, and Kyushu) and smaller island destinations, including Okinawa and the Seto Inland Sea. Ferries are a budget-friendly and scenic alternative to trains or planes, perfect for travelers wanting a slower, immersive journey.

📍 Popular Ferry Routes & Destinations

🚢 Long-Distance Routes:

• Tokyo to Hokkaido – 18 hours from Tokyo/Oarai to Tomakomai.

• Osaka/Kobe to Kyushu – Connects to Beppu & Kitakyushu, great for hot spring lovers.

• Seto Inland Sea – Links Honshu & Shikoku with stunning views of the art islands like Naoshima.

• Kagoshima to Okinawa – 24-hour ferry to Japan’s tropical paradise.

• Kyushu to Shikoku – Beppu to Yawatahama, an easy route between the islands.

🚤 Short-Distance Ferries:

• Miyajima Island (Hiroshima) – Famous for the floating Itsukushima Shrine.

• Goto Islands (Nagasaki) – Unspoiled nature & hidden Christian sites.

• Oki Islands (Sea of Japan) – Remote and full of wild landscapes.

💺 Ferry Classes & Onboard Amenities

Ferries range from basic passenger boats to large overnight vessels with different seating options:

• Economy Class – Open tatami areas with futons, most affordable.

• Second & First-Class Cabins – Bunk beds or private rooms, more comfort.

• Deluxe Suites – Private cabins with en-suite bathrooms, best for a luxurious trip.

⛴️ Facilities on Large Ferries: Restaurants, showers, public baths 🛁, lounges, and observation decks.

🎫 Booking & Ticketing

🖥️ How to Book:

• Online, at ferry terminals, or through travel agencies.

• Book early during peak seasons (Golden Week, Obon, New Year) as ferries fill up fast!

🎟️ Japan Ferry Pass 21:

• Unlimited ferry travel on selected routes for 21 days – great for island-hopping!

💳 Payment:

• Most major ferries accept credit cards, but small ports may require cash.

💡 Practical Tips for Ferry Travel

✅ Arrive Early – 30-60 minutes before departure, especially for long routes.
🛏️ Overnight Travel? – Bring a blanket, travel pillow & toiletries if in economy class.
🍱 Enjoy Onboard Facilities – Take a bath, relax on deck, or grab a meal onboard.
🎒 Check Luggage Policies – Some ferries allow cars, motorcycles & bicycles, but check fees.
🌦️ Weather Caution – Ferries may be delayed in typhoon season, so confirm your trip in advance.

🌴 Exploring Japan’s Islands by Ferry

🎨 Naoshima & Art Islands – Take a ferry from Okayama to visit contemporary art museums in a peaceful setting.
♨️ Kyushu’s Hot Springs – Ferries from Osaka/Kobe lead to Beppu & Yufuin, Japan’s famous onsen towns.
🏝️ Okinawa’s Hidden Islands – Ferries connect Naha to Zamami, Ishigaki & Miyako, ideal for diving & beaches.