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Shin Nihonkai Ferry

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Shin Nihonkai Ferry

A long-distance ferry connecting Honshu and Hokkaido, mainly along the Sea of Japan coast, and often described as a “moving hotel.”

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Supervised by :  Shin Nihonkai Ferry Co., Ltd.

Shin Nihonkai Ferry operates long-distance ferry routes connecting Honshu and Hokkaido, mainly along the Sea of Japan coast. Services run from ports such as Maizuru, Tsuruga, Niigata, and Akita to Otaru and Tomakomai Higashi, and are used as routes linking major cities on the Sea of Japan side of Japan.

The ferries in service are large vessels, including the newly built Keyaki, which entered service in November 2025, and all eight ships operate on a regular schedule. The ships are sometimes described as “moving hotels” and feature a wide range of facilities, including various types of guest rooms such as suites, restaurants, and observation spaces. They offer a comfortable environment where passengers can relax on board even during long journeys. In addition, Hamanasu, the sister ship of Keyaki, is scheduled to enter service on June 29, 2026.

The ferries can also carry passenger cars and trucks, so they are used not only as a means of travel but also for logistics. Since some routes involve long hours on board, these long-distance ferries can also be enjoyed for the time spent on the ship itself.

Highlights

  • A long-distance ferry connecting Honshu and Hokkaido, mainly along the Sea of Japan coast.
  • Services run from Maizuru, Tsuruga, Niigata, and Akita to Otaru and Tomakomai Higashi.
  • Eight large ferries, including Keyaki, operate on a regular schedule.
  • The ships are sometimes called “moving hotels” and offer extensive onboard facilities.
  • They can carry passenger cars and trucks and are also used for logistics.

Photos

  • Oshima, Japan’s largest uninhabited island, as seen from Keyaki and Hamanasu

    Oshima, Japan’s largest uninhabited island, as seen from Keyaki and Hamanasu

  • Keyaki and Hamanasu, operating between Maizuru and Otaru

    Keyaki and Hamanasu, operating between Maizuru and Otaru

  • Keyaki and Hamanasu offer Japan’s first domestic ferry immersive content experience using three walls

    Keyaki and Hamanasu offer Japan’s first domestic ferry immersive content experience using three walls

  • Some ships are also equipped with a sports room with exercise machines

    Some ships are also equipped with a sports room with exercise machines

  • The entrance of Keyaki, which entered service in November 2025. Its three-story atrium creates a spacious feel

    The entrance of Keyaki, which entered service in November 2025. Its three-story atrium creates a spacious feel

  • The forward salon, positioned to let passengers enjoy the view in the direction the ship is traveling

    The forward salon, positioned to let passengers enjoy the view in the direction the ship is traveling

  • Enjoy everything from classic menu items to local specialties from port destinations at the restaurant

    Enjoy everything from classic menu items to local specialties from port destinations at the restaurant

  • The reservation-only special restaurant Grill, where guests can enjoy a course meal supervised by a hotel executive chef

    The reservation-only special restaurant Grill, where guests can enjoy a course meal supervised by a hotel executive chef

  • At the dog fields on Lavender, Azalea, Suzuran, Suisen, Keyaki, and Hamanasu, you can relax and refresh with your dog

    At the dog fields on Lavender, Azalea, Suzuran, Suisen, Keyaki, and Hamanasu, you can relax and refresh with your dog

Official FAQs

Frequently Asked Questions have been vetted and answered directly by each listing.

Q

Is there free Wi-Fi available in the area?
A

There is no free Wi-Fi on board.
However, “Ferry Wi-Fi” using Starlink is available. (Free for au users, 1,500 yen / 24 h for others)

Q

Do I need identification such as a passport to make a purchase?
A

If you live in Japan: your residential postal code is required
If you live outside Japan: your nationality and passport number are required

Q

Can I board without a reservation?
A

You can board if seats are available, but advance reservations are recommended.

Reviews

Details

Name in Japanese
新日本海フェリー
Closed on
Operates according to the sailing schedule. See the official Shin Nihonkai Ferry website for details.
Hours
Departure and arrival times vary by route. See the official Shin Nihonkai Ferry website for details.
Admission
Boarding fares vary depending on the route, vessel, season, and room type. See the official Shin Nihonkai Ferry website for details.
Credit Cards
Accepted
Official website
Official website (Japanese)
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