Review of Ferry Kyoto | Meimon Taiyo Ferry | Japan’s Overnight Ferry Experience | Osaka – Fukuoka

FERRY KYOTO is a ferry operated by City Line Meimon Taiyo Ferry, connecting Fukuoka to Osaka and Osaka to Fukuoka.

The ferry began service on December 16, 2021, on the route between Shinmoji Port in Fukuoka Prefecture and Osaka Nanko in Osaka Prefecture. It replaced the previous vessel, FERRY KYOTO II, which operated from September 3, 2002, to January 14, 2022.

This time, I boarded “FERRY KYOTO” and took a 12-hour and 30-minute voyage from Osaka Nanko in Osaka Prefecture to Shinmoji Port in Kitakyushu City, Fukuoka Prefecture.

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This article is recommended for people like this!

・Don’t know what “FERRY KYOTO” is!
・Want to ride “FERRY KYOTO” but don’t know how?
・Want to know how to board “FERRY KYOTO”, the fare, and the facilities on board!
・Want to learn everything you need to know before boarding “FERRY KYOTO”!

In this article, we introduce the basics of travel, how to plan your trip, and how to start your journey.

By reading this article, you will learn all about “FERRY KYOTO”.
We will also share tips to make your trip more enjoyable.

If you are interested in sea travel or want to know how to enjoy traveling by ship, please refer to this article.

What’s the difference between “FERRY KYOTO” and “FERRY FUKUOKA”?

The difference between “FERRY KYOTO” and “FERRY FUKUOKA” lies in the concept of the interior design, although the facilities and cabins are exactly the same.
The concept of “FERRY KYOTO” is “The Atmosphere of an Ancient Capital“, while the concept of “FERRY FUKUOKA” is “The Sparkle of a Bayside City“.

FERRY KYOTO Concept

A long painting inside FERRY KYOTO
a square painting inside FERRY KYOTO
a framed panel inside FERRY KYOTO
a ginkgo leaf art object on the wall inside FERRY KYOTO
A long painting inside FERRY KYOTO
photo by mitemil
A long painting inside FERRY KYOTO
a square painting inside FERRY KYOTO
a framed panel inside FERRY KYOTO
a ginkgo leaf art object on the wall inside FERRY KYOTO

The interior design concept of the newly built “FERRY KYOTO,” the largest ship in the series, is “The Atmosphere of an Ancient Capital.”

Objects that evoke Kyoto, such as an autumn leaf ornament and a painting of Mt. Fuji, were on display.

Article on the sister ship “FERRY FUKUOKA”

Costs for a Sea Voyage with Meimon Taiyo Ferry

From Osaka Station to the Ferry Terminal Station (Train)¥170
Ferry Fare (Cheapest room “Tourist” fare)¥8,800 (¥7,040 with Web discount)
Breakfast/Dinner at the Observation Restaurant¥2,600
From Kokura Station to Hakata Station (Train)¥1,310
Total¥13,170 (¥11,140 with Web discount)

When boarding “FERRY KYOTO” or “FERRY FUKUOKA”, a minimum of ¥13,170 is required, so be sure to have extra spending money for the trip.

How to Save ¥2,000 on Your Fare

With “FERRY OSAKA 2” or “FERRY KITAKYUSHU 2”, the cheapest room is a large room in the economy class, costing ¥7,480 (¥5,240 with Web discount), allowing you to save ¥2,000 on your fare!

The first ferries “FERRY OSAKA 2” and “FERRY KITAKYUSHU 2” are also recommended!

Fares for Traveling by Meimon Taiyo Ferry

Train from Osaka Station to Ferry Terminal Station460 yen
Ferry fare (lowest room “Tourist” rate)8,800 yen (7,040 yen with web discount)
Breakfast/Dinner at the Observation Restaurant2,600 yen
Train from Kokura Station to Hakata Station1,310 yen
Total13,170 yen (11,140 yen with web discount)

For “FERRY KYOTO” and “FERRY FUKUOKA,” you will need at least 13,170 yen, so make sure to prepare additional money for personal use on board.

There Is Also a Way to Ride for 2,000 Yen Less

For “FERRY OSAKA II” and “FERRY KITAKYUSHU II,” you can choose the cheapest large room in the economy class for 7,480 yen (5,240 yen with web discount), which is 2,000 yen less!

Daily Schedule for a Ship Trip with Meimon Taiyo Ferry

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Traveling by Meimon Taiyo Ferry is easy to schedule since the departure and arrival times are the same from both Osaka and Shimonoseki!

Osaka Nanko to Fukuoka Shin-Moji Port

1st Departure: Osaka Osaka Nanko (17:00) → Fukuoka Shin-Moji (05:30) toggle icon

15:08 JR Osaka Station
Osaka Loop Line West-Kujo direction Kishuji Rapid (Wakayama bound)
■Transfer at Bentencho Station
Osaka Metro Chuo Line (Cosmo Square direction)
■Transfer at Cosmo Square
Osaka Metro New Tram (Suminoe Koen direction)
Ferry Terminal Station – 460 yen
15:42 Ferry Terminal Station
15:47 Osaka Nanko Ferry Terminal
16:10 Boarding Begins
17:00 Osaka Nanko Departure
05:30 Shin-Moji Port Arrival
05:45 Shin-Moji Port Departure (Free Shuttle Bus)
06:05 JR Moji Station (Meimon Taiyo Ferry Shuttle Bus Stop) Arrival
06:25 JR Kokura Station (Meimon Taiyo Ferry Shuttle Bus Stop) Arrival
06:36 JR Kokura Station
Kagoshima Main Line (Kurume bound)
JR Hakata Station – 1,310 yen
08:14 JR Hakata Station

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2nd Departure: Osaka Osaka Nanko (19:50) → Fukuoka Shin-Moji (08:30) toggle icon

17:57 JR Osaka Station
Osaka Loop Line West-Kujo direction Kishuji Rapid (Wakayama bound)
■Transfer at Bentencho Station
Osaka Metro Chuo Line (Cosmo Square direction)
■Transfer at Cosmo Square
Osaka Metro New Tram (Suminoe Koen direction)
Ferry Terminal Station – 460 yen
18:30 Ferry Terminal Station
18:45 Osaka Nanko Ferry Terminal
19:00 Boarding Begins
19:50 Osaka Nanko Departure
08:30 Shin-Moji Port Arrival
08:45 Shin-Moji Port Departure (Free Shuttle Bus)
09:05 JR Moji Station (Meimon Taiyo Ferry Shuttle Bus Stop) Arrival
09:25 JR Kokura Station (Meimon Taiyo Ferry Shuttle Bus Stop) Arrival
09:55 JR Kokura Station
Kagoshima Main Line Local (Tosu bound)
JR Hakata Station – 1,310 yen
11:20 JR Hakata Station

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Fukuoka Shin-Moji → Osaka Osaka Nanko

1st Departure: Fukuoka Shin-Moji (17:00) → Osaka Nanko (05:30) toggle icon

13:32 JR Hakata Station
Kagoshima Main Line Express (bound for Moji)
To Kokura Station – 1,310 yen
14:50 JR Kokura Station
15:40 JR Kokura Station (Shuttle Bus Stop) Departure
(Free Shuttle Bus)
16:00 JR Moji Station (Shuttle Bus Stop) Arrival
16:20 Shin-Moji Port Ferry Terminal Arrival
(Meimon Taiyo Ferry Boarding)
16:25 Boarding Begins
17:00 Shin-Moji Port Departure
05:30 Osaka Nanko Arrival
05:35 Osaka Nanko Ferry Terminal
06:04 Ferry Terminal Station
Osaka Metro New Tram (Cosmo Square bound)
■Transfer at Cosmo Square Station
Osaka Metro Chūō Line (bound for Gakken Nara-Tomigaoka)
■Transfer at Bentencho Station
JR Osaka Station – 460 yen
06:39 JR Osaka Station

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2nd Departure: Fukuoka Shin-Moji (19:50) → Osaka Nanko (08:30) toggle icon

16:54 JR Hakata Station
Kagoshima Main Line Rapid (Bound for Kokura)
1,310 yen to Kokura Station
18:02 JR Kokura Station
18:40 JR Kokura Station (Special Bus Stop) Departure
(Free Shuttle Bus)
19:00 JR Moji Station (Special Bus Stop) Arrival
19:20 Shin-Moji Port Ferry Terminal Arrival
(Meimon Taiyo Ferry)
19:25 Boarding Begins
19:50 Shin-Moji Port Departure
05:30 Osaka Nanko Arrival
05:35 Osaka Nanko Ferry Terminal
05:54 Ferry Terminal Station
Osaka Metro New Tram (Bound for Cosmosquare)
■Transfer at Cosmosquare Station
Osaka Metro Chuo Line (Bound for Gakken Nara-Tomigaoka)
■Transfer at Bentencho Station
JR Osaka Station – 460 yen
06:32 JR Osaka Station

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A trip with Meimon Taiyo Ferry is convenient because the departure and arrival times are the same whether you depart from Osaka or Shin-Moji!

Ferry Kyoto Boarding Location & Access

Osaka

Exterior view of Osaka Nanko Ferry Terminal
ticket counter on the first floor of Osaka Nanko Ferry Terminal
inside Ferry Terminal Station on the Osaka Metro New Tram line
and a bus stop for the Dream Shuttle Bus bound for USJ near Osaka Nanko Ferry Terminal
Exterior view of Osaka Nanko Ferry Terminal
photo by mitemil
Exterior view of Osaka Nanko Ferry Terminal
ticket counter on the first floor of Osaka Nanko Ferry Terminal
inside Ferry Terminal Station on the Osaka Metro New Tram line
and a bus stop for the Dream Shuttle Bus bound for USJ near Osaka Nanko Ferry Terminal

Boarding Location – Osaka Nanko
Train – Approx. 4-minute walk from Osaka Metro New Tram Ferry Terminal Station
Bus – Immediate access from Nanko Ferry Terminal (Bus Stop)

About 23 minutes from Sakaihigashi Station (Bus Stop) to Nanko Ferry Terminal (Bus Stop) (Adult: 510 yen / Child: 210 yen)

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Osaka Nanko has good access as it’s directly connected to the ferry terminal!

Fukuoka

Meimon Taiyo Ferry's boarding area at Shin-Moji Port in Kitakyushu
exterior view of JR Kokura Station
and Meimon Taiyo Ferry's special bus stop at JR Kokura Station's north exit
Meimon Taiyo Ferry's boarding area at Shin-Moji Port in Kitakyushu
photo by mitemil
Meimon Taiyo Ferry's boarding area at Shin-Moji Port in Kitakyushu
exterior view of JR Kokura Station
and Meimon Taiyo Ferry's special bus stop at JR Kokura Station's north exit

Boarding Location – Shin-Moji Port Ferry Terminal
Bus – About 40 minutes by free shuttle bus from JR Kokura Station (North Exit)
Bus – About 20 minutes by free shuttle bus from JR Moji Station (North Exit)

If you plan to use the free shuttle bus with a wheelchair, you need to inform them by phone one week before boarding.

Free Shuttle Bus Timetable to Shin-Moji Ferry Terminal toggle icon

JR Kokura Station Shinkansen Exit (North Exit) 15:40 18:40
JR Moji Station Oosaki Red Brick Town Exit (North Exit) 16:00 19:00
Shin-Moji Port Terminal 16:20 19:20

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You can relax knowing that there’s a free shuttle bus from JR Kokura Station and JR Moji Station to the Shin-Moji Port Ferry Terminal!

Ferry Kyoto Boarding Fees & Fares

Boarding Fees & Fares

Meimon Taiyo Ferry Kyoto Boarding Ticket
Meimon Taiyo Ferry Kyoto Boarding Ticket
photo by mitemil

The highest room price is for the suite at 23,100 yen, and the lowest fare is for a tourist room at 8,800 yen. If you made an online reservation, you can board the ferry by scanning the QR code displayed on your smartphone.

It’s recommended to book online, as you can get a 20% discount on the fare! Fares vary depending on the season, so please check the official website for the latest prices.

▼ Meimon Taiyo Ferry Official Website Fare Page https://www.cityline.co.jp/fare

Meimon Taiyo Ferry 1st Departure Boarding Fees toggle icon

Room Type Period A Period B Period C
Suite 23,100 25,520 29,150
Deluxe 20,020 22,440 26,070
First A 14,850 16,610 19,250
First J 14,850 16,610 16,250
First B 14,850 16,610 19,250
First S 12,100 13,860 16,500
Private S 11,000 12,210 14,030
Tourist 8,800 10,010 11,830
Economy 7,480 8,690 10,510
*Ferry Kitakyushu 2 & Ferry Osaka 2 (1st Departure 17:00)

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Meimon Taiyo Ferry 2nd Departure Boarding Fees toggle icon

Room Type Period A Period B Period C
Suite 23,100 25,520 29,150
Deluxe 20,020 22,440 26,070
Superior 17,050 18,810 21,450
First J 14,850 16,610 19,250
First B 14,850 16,610 19,250
First S 12,100 13,860 16,500
Private S 11,000 12,210 14,030
Comfort 10,120 11,330 13,150
Tourist 8,800 10,010 11,830
*Ferry Kyoto & Ferry Fukuoka (2nd Departure 19:50)

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Period A is considered off-peak, while Periods B and C are classified as peak seasons.

▼ Meimon Taiyo Ferry Official Website Boarding Fees Page
https://www.cityline.co.jp/fare

Ferry Kyoto Special Discount Plans

Meimon Taiyo Ferry offers a variety of discount plans.

Meimon Taiyo Ferry Web-Exclusive Discount Plans Summary
Funwari Discount
City Line Card Member Discount
Easy Ferry (Passenger Cars)
Bunbun Ferry (Scooters & Motorcycles over 125cc)

There are also discounts available, such as the **Silver Discount** for those aged 60 and over, and the **Student Discount** limited to economy fares.
For more details on the discount systems available at the ticket counter, please check the Meimon Taiyo Ferry’s [official website](https://www.cityline.co.jp/fare/discount)!

▼ Meimon Taiyo Ferry Web Discounts & Plans Introduction Page
https://www.cityline.co.jp/fare/discount

How to Reserve Ferry Kyoto

There are two reservation methods: online and by phone.

For online reservations, a boarding QR code will be automatically sent to the email address registered at the time of booking.
Simply present the QR code displayed on your smartphone at the boarding gate to board the ferry.
If you want to keep a memento of your boarding, you can request a paper boarding pass at the counter, so feel free to ask!

▼ Meimon Taiyo Ferry Official Website (Available 24 hours)
https://www.cityline.co.jp/reserve/operation

▼ Meimon Taiyo Ferry Passenger Reservation Center (Available from 9:00 AM to 6:30 PM, year-round)
050-3784-9680

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I also got a paper boarding pass as a souvenir for myself!

Ferry Kyoto Latest Information & Operation Status

The final decision on whether the Meimon Taiyo Ferry will operate is made around noon on the day of departure based on sea and weather conditions.

You can check the operation status and cancellation rates of the Meimon Taiyo Ferry on the official website operated by Meimon Taiyo Ferry.

▼ Meimon Taiyo Ferry Latest Operation Status
https://www.cityline.co.jp/

Ferry Kyoto Boarding Time, Schedule, and Duration

ServiceShinmoji Port → Osaka NankoOsaka Nanko → Shinmoji Port
Service 117:00 → 05:3017:00 → 05:30
Service 219:50 → 08:3019:50 → 08:30
※ Ferry Kitakyushu 2 & Ferry Osaka 2 (Service 1 at 17:00)
※ Ferry Kyoto & Ferry Fukuoka (Service 2 at 19:50)

The one-way trip takes about 12 hours and 40 minutes.
If you are on foot, please complete the boarding procedure at least 30 minutes before departure. For those with a car, the procedure must be completed 60 minutes before departure during regular seasons and 90 minutes before departure during peak seasons.

The type of ship may vary depending on the boarding date, so make sure to check the ship in advance on the official website!

▼ Meimon Taiyo Ferry Official Website
https://www.cityline.co.jp/

Free Wi-Fi Available on Ferry Kyoto

A board describing the free Wi-Fi connection method on the Ferry Kyoto
A board describing the free Wi-Fi connection method on the Ferry Kyoto
photo by mitemil

Available Locations – Public Spaces Only
Usage – 30 minutes per session, up to 3 times a day, reset at midnight

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The inconvenience with this Wi-Fi is that you need to reconnect every 30 minutes, up to 3 times a day. It’s a bit of a hassle (~_~ ; )

Ferry Kyoto Interior Introduction

Ferry Kyoto

The hull of the Ferry Kyoto docked at Shinmoji Port
The hull of the Ferry Kyoto docked at Shinmoji Port
photo by mitemil

Name – Meimon Taiyo Ferry Ferry Kyoto
Length – 195 meters
Gross Tonnage – 15,025 tons
Service Speed – 23.2 knots (42.96 km/h)
Passenger Capacity – 675 people
Vehicle Capacity – 140 cars, 162 trucks

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It is a large ship with a blue hull and a red funnel mark as its特徴!

Entrance (6F)

The entrance to the Meimon Taiyo Ferry Kyoto
stairs seen from the side
stairs seen from the second floor
a logo object on the wall of the Meimon Taiyo Ferry Kyoto entrance
The entrance to the Meimon Taiyo Ferry Kyoto
photo by mitemil
The entrance to the Meimon Taiyo Ferry Kyoto
stairs seen from the side
stairs seen from the second floor
a logo object on the wall of the Meimon Taiyo Ferry Kyoto entrance

The entrance right in front of the boarding area features a symmetrical design with a distinctive space.

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The central staircase has walls adorned with autumn leaves inspired by Kyoto.

Information & Shop (6F)

Information and shop area of the Meimon Taiyo Ferry Kyoto
souvenirs and local products from Fukuoka
snacks sold in the shop
alcohol sold in the shop
amenity price list of the Meimon Taiyo Ferry Kyoto
Information and shop area of the Meimon Taiyo Ferry Kyoto
photo by mitemil
Information and shop area of the Meimon Taiyo Ferry Kyoto
souvenirs and local products from Fukuoka
snacks sold in the shop
alcohol sold in the shop
amenity price list of the Meimon Taiyo Ferry Kyoto

The shop offers a wide range of products including souvenirs from Kansai and Kyushu, snacks, beverages, and daily necessities.

They also sell a variety of amenity goods like towels, slippers, shampoo, and razors, so you don’t need to worry if you haven’t prepared shower items in advance.

Be sure to check out the exclusive ferry merchandise.

Products Sold in the Shop toggle icon

◇Original Snacks & Beverages◇
■ Original Ship-Shaped Cookies – 650 yen
■ Ship-Shaped Original Shochu (Sweet Potato) 360ml (Nagashima Brewery/Satsuma Shimazou) – 2,750 yen
■ Original Tamago Boro – 540 yen
■ Hita Tenryosui Original Bottle 500ml – 200 yen
◇Original Goods◇
■ Ballpoint Pen – 250 yen
■ Norina Keychain – 980 yen
■ Bath Plush Toy – 1,500 yen
■ Original Stainless Bottle 300ml – 2,000 yen
■ Slim Bath Towel 34㎝×110㎝ – 1,200 yen
■ Tote Bag – 900 yen
■ Ship Seal Keychain – 500 yen
■ Block Memo Pad – 420 yen
■ Free Notebook A6 – 100 yen
■ Glass Chopstick Rest – 500 yen
■ Sticker – 100 yen
■ Universal Charger – 1,200 yen
◇Daily Necessities◇
■ Face Towel – 430 yen
■ Bath Towel – 1,500 yen
■ Toothbrush Set – 100 yen
■ Disposable Slippers – 110 yen
■ Other Various Daily Necessities
◇Beverages & Food Items◇
■ Bottle (500ml) – 160 yen~
■ Cup Noodles – 310 yen~
■ Sweet Bread – 190 yen
■ Ice Cream – 180 yen~
■ Canned Beer (350ml) – 260 yen~
■ Happoshu (350ml) – 210 yen~
■ Canned Chu-Hi (350ml) – 190 yen~
■ Other Beverages, Snacks, and Delicacies
※ Alcohol vending machines are available until 23:00. They are not available in the morning.

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You can purchase souvenirs from Kansai and Kyushu, as well as alcohol, snacks, and amenity goods!

TV Lounge (6F/7F)

TV lounge on the Meimon Taiyo Ferry Kyoto
TV lounge on the Meimon Taiyo Ferry Kyoto
photo by mitemil

The TV lounge is a relaxation area equipped with a large LCD television. Several passengers were seen spending time in the TV lounge during the voyage.

It is located next to the observation restaurant on the 6th floor and next to the observation lounge on the 7th floor.

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Before disembarkation, the TV lounge on the 6th floor was almost full.

Promenade (6F)

Promenade on the Meimon Taiyo Ferry Kyoto
sitting in the promenade reading a booklet
sitting in the promenade looking outside
Promenade on the Meimon Taiyo Ferry Kyoto
photo by mitemil
Promenade on the Meimon Taiyo Ferry Kyoto
sitting in the promenade reading a booklet
sitting in the promenade looking outside

The promenade features many windows, rotating chairs, and long tables.
At the very end of the promenade area is the vehicle deck entrance, so passengers who boarded by car gather here when disembarkation announcements begin.

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Many people were eating their packed lunches here at the start of the trip.

Kids' Room (6F)

Kids' room on the Meimon Taiyo Ferry Kyoto
Kids' room on the Meimon Taiyo Ferry Kyoto
photo by mitemil

There is also a place for children to play.
The kids’ room has a slide and a TV showing cartoons.

There are sofas for parents to sit on, so they can watch their children while relaxing.
The kids’ corner is accessible at any time from boarding until arrival.

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When I boarded, Tom and Jerry were on TV.

Toilets (6F/7F)

Toilets on the Meimon Taiyo Ferry Kyoto
men's toilet sign
inside the men's toilet
private men's toilet
Toilets on the Meimon Taiyo Ferry Kyoto
photo by mitemil
Toilets on the Meimon Taiyo Ferry Kyoto
men's toilet sign
inside the men's toilet
private men's toilet

There are two male and two female toilets on the 6th and 7th floors.
The toilet near the tourist and comfort rooms on the 6th floor has no door; it is covered with a curtain.

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The toilets were very clean and well-maintained!

Public Bath (6F)

Public bath on the Meimon Taiyo Ferry Kyoto
Public bath on the Meimon Taiyo Ferry Kyoto
photo by mitemil

The public bath area is spacious with a large bathtub, making it perfect for relaxing during the voyage.

The public bath is divided into male and female sections.
The time slots for usage are usually from 16:00 to 23:00, with a 40-minute closing period for cleaning. (Subject to change depending on the schedule)

The bath has shampoo, conditioner, and body soap provided.
Please refrain from using bath products that might damage the bathtub or its fixtures.

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The public bath is open from 16:00 to 23:00, so if you want to take a bath, be sure to check the schedule beforehand.

Restaurant (6F)

Restaurant on the Meimon Taiyo Ferry Kyoto
Restaurant on the Meimon Taiyo Ferry Kyoto
photo by mitemil

The restaurant offers a variety of dishes and meals.

It’s a great place to enjoy a meal while looking at the scenery outside.

Open hours: 17:30 to 22:00. (Subject to change depending on the schedule)

Reservations are not accepted, so please come and enjoy the meal.

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The restaurant is open from 17:30 to 22:00. You can enjoy the meal while watching the sea view, which is really nice!

Observation Lounge (7F)

Observation lounge on the Meimon Taiyo Ferry Kyoto
Observation lounge on the Meimon Taiyo Ferry Kyoto
photo by mitemil

The observation lounge offers panoramic views from the 7th floor, perfect for sightseeing during the voyage.

It’s a place where passengers can relax and enjoy the beautiful scenery of the sea and the coastline.

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It was so relaxing to sit in the observation lounge and watch the sea.Be cautious as the observation deck can be slippery on rainy days!

Kyoto Ferry Onboard Observation Restaurant

Observation Restaurant (6F)

Meimon Taiyo Ferry Kyoto Observation Restaurant Entrance
Meimon Taiyo Ferry Kyoto Restaurant Curry Corner
Meimon Taiyo Ferry Kyoto Restaurant Bread
Meimon Taiyo Ferry Kyoto Night Observation Restaurant Entrance
Meimon Taiyo Ferry Kyoto Night Observation Restaurant Interior
Meimon Taiyo Ferry Kyoto Night Observation Restaurant Desk Work Scene
Meimon Taiyo Ferry Kyoto Observation Restaurant Entrance
photo by mitemil
Meimon Taiyo Ferry Kyoto Observation Restaurant Entrance
Meimon Taiyo Ferry Kyoto Restaurant Curry Corner
Meimon Taiyo Ferry Kyoto Restaurant Bread
Meimon Taiyo Ferry Kyoto Night Observation Restaurant Entrance
Meimon Taiyo Ferry Kyoto Night Observation Restaurant Interior
Meimon Taiyo Ferry Kyoto Night Observation Restaurant Desk Work Scene

The observation restaurant on the Meimon Taiyo Ferry Kyoto is spacious, and there are sofa seats as you proceed further inside. If you buy breakfast and dinner together, you can save 200 yen, with the combined price dropping from 2,600 yen to 2,400 yen!

▼ Details of Meimon Taiyo Ferry Observation Restaurant https://www.cityline.co.jp/attraction/restaurant

Observation Restaurant Pricing toggle icon

Breakfast Buffet Dinner Buffet
Adult 800 yen 1,800 yen
Senior 700 yen 1,300 yen
Child 1,000 yen 500 yen
Infant (4-5 years old) Free Free

Alcohol

Draft Beer (Medium)※Vending Machine 500 yen
Kuro Kirishima (Sweet Potato) 200ml 320 yen
Kuro Kirishima (Sweet Potato) 900ml 1,100 yen
Kuro Isanishiki (Sweet Potato) 200ml 320 yen
Kuro Isanishiki (Sweet Potato) 900ml 1,100 yen
Shirakabe (Raw Sake) 740 yen
Wine (Red/White) 1,260 yen
Bottle Beer (Medium) 500 yen
Shirotake (Rice) 900ml 1,050 yen
Gekkeikan (Sake) 180ml 380 yen

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Observation Restaurant Dinner

Meimon Taiyo Ferry Kyoto Dinner Plate
Meimon Taiyo Ferry Kyoto Dinner Buffet Plate with Udon and Pumpkin Dish
Meimon Taiyo Ferry Kyoto Dinner Buffet with Fried Food
Meimon Taiyo Ferry Kyoto Dinner Buffet with Soup Gyoza
Meimon Taiyo Ferry Kyoto Dinner Buffet with Udon
Meimon Taiyo Ferry Kyoto Dinner Buffet with Boiled Shrimp and Bonito Tataki
Meimon Taiyo Ferry Kyoto Dinner Plate
photo by mitemil
Meimon Taiyo Ferry Kyoto Dinner Plate
Meimon Taiyo Ferry Kyoto Dinner Buffet Plate with Udon and Pumpkin Dish
Meimon Taiyo Ferry Kyoto Dinner Buffet with Fried Food
Meimon Taiyo Ferry Kyoto Dinner Buffet with Soup Gyoza
Meimon Taiyo Ferry Kyoto Dinner Buffet with Udon
Meimon Taiyo Ferry Kyoto Dinner Buffet with Boiled Shrimp and Bonito Tataki

The dinner featured a wide variety of dishes. There were Chinese dishes, fried foods, stews, and everything was delicious.

The bonito tataki was available for unlimited helpings, but the boiled shrimp was so good that I had several servings.

Some people peeled the shrimp before eating, but I ate them with the shells on. The shrimp had a slight saltiness, which I recommend!

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The restaurant could be used as a free space after operating hours!

Observation Restaurant Breakfast

Meimon Taiyo Ferry Kyoto Breakfast Plate
Meimon Taiyo Ferry Kyoto Breakfast with Meatballs
Boiled Sausages
and Scrambled Eggs
Meimon Taiyo Ferry Kyoto Breakfast with Omelet
Meimon Taiyo Ferry Kyoto Breakfast Plate
photo by mitemil
Meimon Taiyo Ferry Kyoto Breakfast Plate
Meimon Taiyo Ferry Kyoto Breakfast with Meatballs
Boiled Sausages
and Scrambled Eggs
Meimon Taiyo Ferry Kyoto Breakfast with Omelet

The breakfast was much lighter compared to dinner, with fewer oily dishes.

There were two types of bread: butter rolls and sliced bread. There’s a conveyor oven near the bread area, so you can toast the bread yourself. The bread will drop out from the back after a while. Since toasting twice can make the bread burn, once should be sufficient.

For those who prefer rice, the curry rice is highly recommended! The curry on the Meimon Taiyo Ferry is well-known for being delicious, so make sure to try it if you’re on board! The morning curry while overlooking the sea was exceptional.

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For those who want to enjoy a meal with a view, the first sailing is recommended for dinner and the second sailing for breakfast!

Kyoto Ferry Onboard Facility Operating Hours

Facility NameFirst Sailing (17:00 Departure)Second Sailing (19:50 Departure)
Information Desk16:00–22:00 / 4:30–until arrival18:30–24:00 / 6:40–until arrival
Shop16:00–21:30 / 4:30–until arrival18:30–22:30 / 6:40–until arrival
Restaurant17:00–20:00 / 4:30–20 minutes before arrival19:00–21:30 / 6:40–20 minutes before arrival
Observation Bath16:00–22:00 (Closed in the morning)18:30–24:00 / 06:00–10 minutes before arrival
Shower Room16:00–10 minutes before arrival18:30–10 minutes before arrival
Tourist Comfort
Lights Out
21:3022:30
Tourist Comfort
Lights On
4:006:20

Kyoto Ferry Bridge Passing Times

DepartureRouteKurushima Kaikyō BridgeSeto OhashiAkashi Kaikyō Bridge
1st Sailing (17:00 Departure)Shinmoji Port → Osaka South Port22:3000:4504:10
2nd Sailing (19:50 Departure)Shinmoji Port → Osaka South Port01:2503:4007:10
1st Sailing (17:00 Departure)Osaka South Port → Shinmoji Port23:5021:3518:10
2nd Sailing (19:50 Departure)Osaka South Port → Shinmoji Port02:5000:3021:05
* Meimon Taiyo Ferry Kyushu 2 & Meimon Taiyo Ferry Osaka 2 (1st Sailing 17:00 Departure)
* Meimon Taiyo Ferry Kyoto & Meimon Taiyo Ferry Fukuoka (2nd Sailing 19:50 Departure)

Akashi Kaikyō Bridge

Akashi Kaikyō Bridge
Akashi Kaikyō Bridge
photo by mitemil

The Akashi Kaikyō Bridge, connecting Kobe City in Hyogo Prefecture with Awaji Island, has a total length of 3,911 meters.

Opened in 1998, the Akashi Kaikyō Bridge is the second longest suspension bridge in the world (the first being the Çanakkale Bridge in Turkey at 4,608 meters). It is well-known for its impressive beauty and advanced technology, making it a popular tourist destination both domestically and internationally. It is also an important regional transportation infrastructure connecting Honshu and Awaji Island.

Seto Ohashi Bridge

Seto Ohashi Bridge
Seto Ohashi Bridge
photo by mitemil

A suspension bridge connecting Kurashiki City in Okayama Prefecture with Sakaide City in Kagawa Prefecture. Bridge Length: Total length of 12,300 meters.

Opened in 1988, the Seto Ohashi Bridge serves as a crucial transportation infrastructure linking Shikoku and Honshu by land. The term “Seto Ohashi” refers to the collective name for six interconnected bridges.

Shimotsui Seto Ohashi (Okayama to Hitsui Island)
Hitsui Island Bridge (Hitsui Island to Iwaguro Island)
Iwaguro Island Bridge (Iwaguro Island to Hasajima)
Yushima Bridge (Hasajima to Yushima)
North Bisan Seto Ohashi (Yushima to Mitsugoshima)
South Bisan Seto Ohashi (Yushima to Ban-no-sue)

Kurushima Kaikyo Bridge

Kurushima Kaikyo Bridge
Kurushima Kaikyo Bridge
photo by mitemil

A suspension bridge connecting Imabari City in Ehime Prefecture with Oshima. Bridge Length: Total length of 4,105 meters.

The Kurushima Kaikyo Bridge is the world’s first triple-span suspension bridge, connecting Oshima and Imabari. Due to the fast and complex tidal currents in the area, the bridge was designed with advanced technology and expertise gathered from the Seto Ohashi and Akashi Kaikyo Bridges.

mitemilのプロフィール画像
At midnight, I was the only one on the observation deck when passing the “Seto Ohashi” and “Kurushima Kaikyo” bridges! (laughs)

Ferry Kyoto Frequently Asked Questions

What are the recommended rooms on the Meimon Taiyo Ferry? toggle icon

For one person, the “First S” room is recommended, and for multiple people, the “First J” room is ideal! The First S room has a single bed and includes a washbasin. The First J room is a spacious Japanese-style room that can accommodate up to four people with futons.

The Meimon Taiyo Ferry has a total of 10 room types, with 9 private rooms and 1 shared room available.

A new “Comfort Room” has been introduced as a replacement for the old economy rooms. Due to increased demand for private rooms during the COVID-19 pandemic, the Comfort Room offers private space instead of shared carpeted rooms.

Private Rooms

– Suite (Japanese-Western Style) – Suite (Western Style) – Deluxe – Superior – First B – First J – First S – Private S (Driver Room)

Shared Rooms

– Comfort – Tourist (including Ladies)
Prices vary depending on the season, so please check the official website for details.

▼ Details on Meimon Taiyo Ferry Discounts https://www.cityline.co.jp/fare/discount

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What is the difference between the 'Tourist' and 'Comfort' rooms on the Meimon Taiyo Ferry? toggle icon

The “Tourist” room is a capsule hotel-style shared room, while the “Comfort” room is slightly taller, allowing you to stand up on the bed. The Tourist room is too narrow to stand up on the bed, but the Comfort room offers more space for standing.

Prices vary depending on the season, so please check the official website for details.

▼ Meimon Taiyo Ferry Fare Details https://www.cityline.co.jp/fare

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How can I get a discount on the Meimon Taiyo Ferry? toggle icon

The “Web Discount” and “Easy Ferry” discount programs are recommended.

The Meimon Taiyo Ferry offers various discount programs, but I frequently use the “Web Discount” or the “Easy Ferry” discount, which is available for reservations made more than a week in advance. These options are usually cheaper.

Booking online is essential as it is cheaper than buying tickets at the counter.

▼ Details on Meimon Taiyo Ferry Discounts https://www.cityline.co.jp/fare/discount

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What age is eligible for the Meimon Taiyo Ferry Silver Discount? toggle icon

The Silver Discount is available for those aged 60 and over.

Please note that the Silver Discount applies to boarding, but the senior rate for the onboard restaurant is for those aged 70 and over.

▼ Details on Meimon Taiyo Ferry Discounts https://www.cityline.co.jp/fare/discount

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Can I get a signal on the Meimon Taiyo Ferry? toggle icon

It depends on the location, but you might get some signal on the observation deck.

The ferry provides free Wi-Fi in public areas such as the lobby, which can be used for 30 minutes per session, up to three times a day. However, since the Wi-Fi relies on ground-based signals, the connection can be unstable.

The Wi-Fi session count resets after midnight. There is no password required; just an email address is needed to access the internet, so those who need connectivity should definitely give it a try!

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Can I travel with pets on the Meimon Taiyo Ferry? toggle icon

Pets are allowed under certain conditions.

The Meimon Taiyo Ferry does not have facilities to care for pets, so only passengers traveling by car can leave their pets in the vehicle.

Passengers wishing to travel with pets must sign a consent form and present it at the terminal’s reception counter at least 90 minutes before departure. However, during the summer season (June 1 to September 30), pet travel is not allowed on the “Ferry Kyoto” and “Ferry Fukuoka” due to high temperatures in the vehicle deck, which could be dangerous for pets.

■ Meimon Taiyo Ferry Summer Precautions https://www.cityline.co.jp/archives/6984

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Are there budget tours for the Meimon Taiyo Ferry? toggle icon

Yes, there are budget tours available.

Cityline Travel offers various ferry travel packages, including tours to the Seto Inland Sea. Popular options include the “Universal Studios Japan 2-Night, 3-Day Cruise Plan” which includes round-trip ferry and shuttle bus, and is about 800 yen cheaper than booking independently.

Other popular options include plans with lunch at Saeki Sushi and viewing Kawazu cherry blossoms on Tsukumi Shira Peninsula, as well as seasonal tours with bathing. These tours are recommended for those looking to enjoy a ferry trip affordably.

◇ Cityline Travel Meimon Taiyo Ferry Tour Details ◇ ■ Osaka Departure Plans https://clt-co2.jp/plan/osaka/ ■ Kyushu Departure Plans https://clt-co2.jp/plan/kyushu/

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Pros, Cons, and Reviews of the Ferry Kyoto

Things I liked about the trip

メリット
The onboard buffet meals are delicious
For departures from Osaka, the ferry terminal is directly connected to the station, making access convenient
Using the web discount can make the trip cheaper
Free Wi-Fi is available
The combined cost of accommodation and travel is relatively low

Things that might be a bit inconvenient

デメリット
Traveling by ferry takes longer compared to flying
It takes about 40 minutes by bus from Kokura Station to the port, which is a bit far
In winter, with early sunsets and late sunrises, the first ferry of the day may mean it's dark outside, so you can't enjoy the scenery from the boat

Ferry Kyoto Boarding Experience Summary

This time, I boarded the Meimon Taiyo Ferry “Ferry Kyoto”.
Here’s a brief summary of the article!

Summary
Booking ferry tickets online in advance is 20% cheaper
There are various types of rooms available, including private rooms and capsule-style rooms
The calm waters of the Seto Inland Sea mean the boat doesn't sway at all
Among the three bridges, the Akashi Kaikyo Bridge offers the most beautiful view
The buffet is 200 yen cheaper if you buy a set ticket for both breakfast and dinner
mitemilのプロフィール画像
For those boarding the “Ferry Kyoto,” have a safe trip and enjoy your journey! (^O^)/

▼ Related Article on the Sister Ship ‘Ferry Fukuoka’

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