Ferry travel is one of the best ways to cross the Seto Inland Sea, so climb on board the Super Jumbo Ferry, servicing Takamatsu on Shikoku and Kobe in Kansai. The journey takes 4 1/2 hours, with a brief stop at Shodoshima Island to drop off and pick up passengers. On board the four-tier ferry, kitted out in splendid retro-fittings, you will find all you need for an enjoyable crossing. Pass the time comfortably on reclining chairs, sofas and tatami rooms; beds are available for night travel. There is even a gaming section with a small studio. The hungry can use the vending machines or eat at the little food counter, which serves simple food like sanuki udon and sausages. At ¥1990 for a ticket, it is a cheap and convenient mode of travel. The view of the islands, Akashi Kaikyo Bridge and Kobe's shoreline along the way is also well-worth the ticket price.
- 1 min read
Super Jumbo Ferry
Old-school ferry crossing the Seto Inland Sea
By Lee Tan
Community writer
Seats with a view
The Super Jumbo Ferry
The ferry's splendid retro-fittings
Comfortable seats for the journey
Evening sun lighting up the cabins
A sumo wrestling promotion on board
Vending machines
The amusement centre
The tatami resting area
View of Kobe's Akashi Kaikyo Bridge
The ferry also transports container trucks
Explore nearby
Join the discussion
Jihad Mahmoud
9 years ago
Wow! Want to try :)
Jeradyne Cheong
9 years ago
I love the feel of these pictures!
Bonson Lam
9 years ago
These are very atmospheric photos Lee, they look wonderful! For more information about the night ferry (including the sleeping cabins), plus transfer information to and from the ferry, have a look here: https://en.japantravel.com/kagawa/takamatsu-to-kobe-ferry/21673
Bonson Lam
9 years ago
More than happy to help anytime. I am glad you can discover some hidden jewels in Kagawa.
5 comments in total
Book your trip
Find a nearby hotel
Explore some of the best nearby hotels and deals for the perfect place to stay in Japan.
Top Articles
-
1Miyoko Schinner: Japan Vegan Tour 2026
Food -
2An Intellectual Journey Through Fujita Tsuguharu’s Legacy in Akita
Akita - Sponsored -
3Japan Pottery Tour: Hands-On Workshops & Artisan Encounters
Culture -
4Discover Shiga Prefecture: Events at COCOSHIGA in Tokyo
Tokyo - Sponsored -
5Discover Hakodate: A Vibrant Port City in Hokkaido
Hokkaido - Sponsored -
6Ultimate Japan Car Culture Journey - From Auto Salon 2026 to the Open Road
Chiba -
7Experience Oarai: A Quiet Fishing Town Blessed by the Bounty of the Sea
Ibaraki - Sponsored -
8An Immersive Look Into Akita’s Food Heritage
Akita - Sponsored -
9A Taste of Shiga at COCOSHIGA
Tokyo - Sponsored -
10A Journey Through an Edo Castle Town From Art Hotel Narita
Chiba - Sponsored
-
1Guide to Bringing Medicines Into Japan
Planning -
2Tokyo Christmas Market
Tokyo -
3The Ultimate Guide to Thrifting in Tokyo
Shopping -
4Your Name: Real-Life Locations in Tokyo
Tokyo -
5November Grand Sumo Tournament (Fukuoka)
Fukuoka -
6Japanese Urban Legends
Culture -
7Tokyo Auto Salon
Chiba -
8Nabana no Sato Illumination
Mie -
9Tori-no-Ichi
Tokyo -
10Winter in Japan: Your Seasonal Guide
Planning